Existing user? Sign in
Share your needs with us, get contacted by law firms.
Free. Takes 2 min.
Or refine your search by selecting a city:
Refine your search by selecting a city.
A work permit, also known as an employment authorization document, is an official document that allows individuals who are not U.S. citizens or permanent residents to legally work in the United States. In Illinois, work permits may also refer to the documentation required for minors under the age of 16 or 18 to work. Navigating the policies regarding work permits can be complex, as federal and state rules must be met for both foreign nationals and minors. Understanding eligibility, application processes, and compliance responsibilities is critical for both employers and employees in Illinois.
Legal guidance can be extremely beneficial when dealing with work permits in Illinois due to the intersecting rules of federal immigration law, state labor law, and specific employer requirements. You may need a lawyer if:
In Illinois, work permit rules are guided by both the federal Immigration and Nationality Act (INA) and state-specific laws. For non-citizens, authorization to work is administered primarily through U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), which issues the Employment Authorization Document (EAD). For minors, Illinois law requires most individuals under age 16 to obtain a work permit before starting a job. These permits are issued by local school authorities and are meant to protect the minor’s education and welfare by limiting the type and amount of work.
Key aspects of Illinois law regarding work permits include:
A work permit is a document that grants permission to work legally. Non-citizens typically need a federal Employment Authorization Document. Minors (under 16) need a work permit issued by their school before they can start most jobs.
Minors usually go to their school’s guidance office to request a work permit. They must provide proof of age, a completed application signed by a parent or guardian, and a job offer from an employer.
Minors are limited in the hours they can work, especially during the school year, and are barred from certain hazardous occupations. The specific rules depend on the minor’s age and whether school is in session.
Generally, undocumented immigrants are not eligible for work permits. Exceptions exist for those granted deferred action or similar immigration relief, in which case they may apply for federal work authorization.
Processing times can vary. For minors, it usually takes a few days, depending on school procedures. For federal EADs, processing can take several months, depending on USCIS workload and case complexity.
You generally cannot work legally until your work permit is approved, unless you are renewing a previous permit and your status allows for automatic extension during processing.
You should carefully review the denial notice for reasons and contact a legal professional. You may be able to appeal, reapply, or address the issues preventing approval.
Yes. Employers must complete the federal Form I-9 for all employees to verify their work eligibility. For minors, employers must also obtain a copy of the work permit before hiring.
For a federal EAD, you generally must submit Form I-765 before your current permit expires. For minors, you may need to apply for a new permit each year or if you change jobs.
No. Employers cannot discriminate against individuals based solely on citizenship or immigration status, as long as the employee is legally able to work in the United States.
For more information and assistance regarding work permits in Illinois, the following resources may be helpful:
If you require legal assistance with work permit issues in Illinois, consider the following steps:
Seeking timely and accurate legal advice can help you protect your rights and ensure compliance with Illinois and federal laws regarding work permits.
