This post will break down everything you need to know about immigrant jobs in the USA. We will explain how immigrants can work legally and give tips on finding a job in the U.S. while waiting for legal status.
Whether you're an immigrant navigating the job market or someone looking to understand the process. This guide will help you uncover immigrant jobs in America, opportunities and secure legal work authorization. Keep reading to learn more!
Undocumented vs. Illegal Immigrants
Before discussing work for immigrants, we need to understand the difference between authorized and unauthorized immigrants in the U.S. Authorized immigrants are people born in other countries who have been legally allowed to enter the U.S. They have valid visas, green cards, or other official documents.
Undocumented immigrants, sometimes called "illegal aliens" in legal contexts, are foreign-born individuals who do not have valid immigration status. This includes people who entered the U.S. without permission. It also includes those who stayed longer than their temporary visa allowed.
Additionally, it covers individuals who violated the terms of their admission. People without legal papers who stay in the country fall into this category, often due to circumstances beyond their control, such as administrative delays in the immigration system.
While unlawful entry is a misdemeanor under U.S. law, visa overstays are considered civil violations, not crimes. The term "illegal immigrant" can be misleading, as many immigration issues do not involve criminal activity.
It’s important to understand this difference because words matter. Calling someone “illegal” can be hurtful and misleading, making it harder for people to talk about immigration fairly. That’s why many people use “undocumented”—it’s more accurate and respectful when discussing immigration status.
Can Undocumented Immigrants Work Legally in the U.S.?
Most immigrants without legal status cannot work legally in the U.S. However, jobs for immigrants without papers exist based on their situation. Here’s a simple breakdown:
Who MAY Be Allowed to Work Without Papers
DACA Recipients (With Active Status) – People in the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program can apply for a work permit to get a job.
TPS Holders (Temporary Protected Status) – If someone has TPS, they can apply for permission to work.
Asylum Seekers (After 150 Days) – If a person applies for asylum and 150 days pass, they can ask for a work permit while waiting for a decision.
People Waiting for a Green Card (Adjustment of Status Applicants) – If someone applies for a green card inside the U.S., they can also ask for a work permit while they wait.
U Visa Applicants – U Visa applicants can get a work permit after they’ve received their bona fide determination notice.
Who CANNOT Work Legally
Visa Overstayers – If a visa expires, the person loses permission to work unless they apply for a new status.
People Who Crossed the Border Without Papers – If someone enters the U.S. without permission, they cannot work legally.
DACA Recipients with Expired Status – If a DACA holder doesn’t renew on time, they lose their work permit.
TPS Holders with Expired Status – When TPS ends, work authorization also ends.
Asylum Seekers Before 150 Days – People waiting for asylum for less than 150 days can’t apply for work authorization yet.
Important Immigrant Jobs Notice:
Many undocumented immigrants help the U.S. economy, working in many important jobs that help run the country efficiently. But Trump’s 2025 deportation plan could hurt families, businesses, and entire communities. If more people have to leave, some industries might not have enough workers.
How to Get Work Authorization in the U.S.
In U.S. immigration, a work permit is called an Employment Authorization Document or EAD. This document lets people work legally in the U.S. for a certain time. Here's a simple guide on how to get a work permit for immigrant jobs in the United States:
Step 1: Make Sure You Qualify
First, check if you are allowed to apply for an EAD. Some people who can apply are:
- DACA recipients
- People with Temporary Protected Status (TPS)
- Asylum seekers (after 150 days)
- People waiting for a green card (Adjustment of Status applicants)
Step 2: Fill Out the Application (Form I-765)
To apply for an EAD, you need to fill out Form I-765, called the Application for Employment Authorization. You can get this form on the USCIS website. Be sure to:
- Answer all questions correctly.
- Give details about your immigration status.
Step 3: Collect the Documents You Need
You will need to send some documents with your application to prove you're eligible. Some common documents include:
- A copy of your passport or ID.
- Proof of your current immigration status (like your DACA approval, TPS notice, or asylum receipt).
- Two passport-sized photos (check USCIS for the right photo size).
Step 4: Pay the Fee (If Needed)
Usually, you have to pay a fee to apply for an EAD. If you can’t afford it, you may be able to get a fee waiver. Check the USCIS website to find out the exact fee and if you need to pay.
Step 5: Send Your Application
Once you’ve filled out the form and collected your documents, mail them to the address listed on the USCIS website.
Step 6: Wait for Your Application to Be Processed
After you send your application, USCIS will take some time to process it. It may take several months. You can check the status of your application online with the receipt number they give you.
Step 7: Get Your EAD
If USCIS approves your application, they will send you your Employment Authorization Document (EAD) card. Once you get it, you can begin searching for available immigrant jobs in the U.S. for the time listed on the card.
Next Steps: How to Find Jobs for Immigrants
You can look at job boards like immigrant job placement sites such as Indeed and LinkedIn, or special websites for immigrants. Talking to people in your community or industry can help too. Just make sure your EAD is up to date so you can show you’re allowed to work.
Where to Look for Work After Getting an EAD
In 2023, almost 1 in 5 workers in the U.S. was born in another country. Out of 160.2 million workers, about 29.7 million held migrant jobs.
These immigrant jobs statistics are sourced from USAFacts: Which Industries Employ the Most Immigrant Workers?
Top Industries Providing Immigrant Jobs
Many immigrants find these migration jobs in these industries:
- Education & Health Services immigrant jobs – 5.5 million workers (18.4%)
- Professional & Business Services – 4.7 million workers (15.8%)
- Jobs that hire immigrants in Construction – 3.3 million workers (11.1%)
- Manufacturing & Retail – Over 6 million combined
If you’re looking for stable jobs with high demand, health care, construction, and business services might be good options.
Which Industries Offer the Most Immigrant Jobs?
Some industries rely heavily on immigrant workers. If you have experience in these areas, you may find more job openings and employers used to hiring immigrants. These fields have the highest percentage of immigrant employees:
- The construction sector has many jobs that hire immigrants – 28.6% of all workers are immigrants
- Professional & Business Services – 22.9%
- Transportation & Utilities – 21.4%
- Leisure & Hospitality (hotels, restaurants, tourism) – 21.0%
Are More Immigrant Jobs Available Now?
Between 2010 and 2023, immigrant job opportunities grew in most industries. Even if you’re new to the workforce, many industries need workers right now. The biggest increases were in:
- Construction – up from 22.7% to 28.6% immigrant workers
- Professional & Business Services – up from 17.5% to 22.9%
- Transportation & Utilities – up from 16.2% to 21.4%
Where Are the Most Immigrant Jobs Available?
California is one of many pro-immigration states that has the most local jobs for immigrants if you are willing to move.
After the Palisades wildfire in Southern California, CBS News reported a Los Angeles construction worker shortage for rebuilding. Many of these workers are immigrants, and 41% of construction workers in California come from other countries.
But new immigration rules could lead to more deportations, making it harder to find workers. Experts say training new workers would take years, and without immigrant workers, rebuilding Los Angeles could take up to 20 years. This problem isn’t just in California—the whole country needs 439,000 new construction workers this year.
Resources for Immigrant Job Seekers
Many people look for jobs for immigrants in industries that value diverse skills. Some employers offer jobs for immigrants without papers, helping them earn a living despite legal challenges. Community organizations can also assist in finding local jobs for immigrants.
Many businesses provide jobs that don’t require legal papers, allowing newcomers to support their families. A quick search for jobs near me can show options for immigrants jobs USA or local immigrant jobs. Nonprofit groups and job centers also offer immigrants job placement services.
If you need immigrant job help, networking in your community can lead to job opportunities. Many people find immigrant jobs in the US through friends or direct applications. With patience and effort, you can secure stable immigrant jobs in America for a better future.
Undocumented immigrants can get professional licenses in Washington State. Arkansas, Illinois, and New York offer licenses to DACA recipients. California, Colorado, Illinois, Nevada, and New Mexico accept ITINs instead of Social Security numbers for licensing.
What About H-1B Visa Immigrant Jobs?
An H-1B visa is not available for immigrants without legal status. The H-1B requires employer sponsorship and strict qualifications. Speak with an immigration lawyer near you to explore your options if you're unsure about your work authorization.
How the I-9 Form Process Works
Immigrant workers do not fill out the I-9 Employment Eligibility Verification form. Employers complete the I-9 form to check that all employees, including immigrants, can legally work in the U.S.
Here’s how it works:
- Employer's Responsibility: When an immigrant starts a job, the employer asks them to fill out the I-9 form. This form helps the employer confirm that the worker is eligible to work legally in the U.S.
- Providing Documents: The immigrant worker must provide documents that prove their identity and their work authorization status. These documents can include a green card, Employment Authorization Document (EAD), or other government-issued IDs.
- Employer Verification: The employer checks the documents and fills out the rest of the I-9 form. They must keep this form on file in case of an audit by the U.S. government.
Important Immigrant Jobs Notice:
Employers must check if workers have legal permission using a government form called I-9. Taking on immigrant jobs without approval can cause problems later, like being denied a future visa or even deportation.
Talk to a California work authorization lawyer right away if you are unsure about your ability to work legally. They can help you understand your situation and guide you through the process.
Take the Next Step Toward Your Career in the U.S.!
Finding immigrant jobs isn’t easy. But it’s possible to find immigrant work opportunities that fit your skills with the right information and support. This can help you build a stable future in the U.S.
Understanding work authorization, visa options, and your rights as an employee is key to making it happen. Take it one step at a time, explore your options, and don’t hesitate to seek help from experts—like a California employment lawyer offering a consultation—who can guide you along the way.
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