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Work permit rules in the United States cover several different legal areas. At the federal level, immigration-related work authorization is issued by U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services - USCIS - and applies nationwide. Separately, state and local laws regulate employment of minors, hours of work, and certain occupational licensing that may function like a work-permit requirement. In addition, employers must follow federal rules on hiring and employment verification - including completing Form I-9 - and comply with wage, hour, and non-discrimination laws enforced by the U.S. Department of Labor and other agencies.
When someone refers to a "work permit" in Lexington, they may mean one of several things: an immigration-based Employment Authorization Document - EAD - allowing a noncitizen to work; a state or school-issued work permit for a minor; or a local occupational permit or license required for certain jobs. Which rules apply depends on whether the issue is immigration-related, youth employment, or a local licensing requirement.
There are many situations where legal help is highly valuable or essential:
- Immigration-based work authorization is delayed, denied, or lost - an attorney can review your eligibility category, identify missing evidence, and advise on motions or appeals.
- You are a noncitizen with a complicated immigration history - prior removals, unlawful presence, or criminal issues can affect eligibility for work authorization and may require specialized legal counsel.
- An employer challenges your right to work, or you face discrimination, retaliation, or wrongful termination tied to your immigration or authorization status.
- You are a minor or the parent of a minor and need help securing a state or school work permit, or you are facing violations of child labor laws.
- You need help understanding I-9, E-Verify, and documentation requirements so you or your employer can comply while protecting your rights.
- You need assistance preparing an application for an occupational license that includes proof of work authorization.
In short, if your case involves deadlines, potential denials, complex eligibility criteria, or interactions with government agencies, a lawyer experienced in the relevant area can improve outcomes and reduce risks.
Local practice in Lexington depends on which Lexington you mean and on state law. Key points that commonly matter in most U.S. jurisdictions include:
- Federal immigration rules govern EADs and nonimmigrant employment authorization - these are the same in every city.
- State laws control youth employment rules. Many states require work permits or certificates for minors under a certain age, define permissible job types, and set limits on hours and times of day. Check the state labor department rules for exact age and hour limits.
- City and county governments may have additional licensing or permit requirements for certain trades or professions - examples include food service, construction, driving services, and cosmetology. Those permits often require proof of identity, training, and sometimes authorization to work.
- Employers in Lexington must follow federal requirements for Form I-9 and may be subject to state-level enforcement of wage and hour laws, anti-discrimination statutes, and occupational safety rules. Employers may also participate in E-Verify where required by state or local regulations.
If you are located in Lexington in a particular state - for example Lexington, Kentucky - contact your state labor agency and local city government offices for the specific forms and rules that apply where you live.
An EAD is a card issued by USCIS that proves a noncitizen is allowed to work in the United States for a specific period. Eligible people include certain asylum seekers, refugees, DACA recipients, people with Temporary Protected Status, certain adjustment of status applicants, and others authorized by immigration law. Eligibility categories vary and must be verified on your application form.
Processing times vary by USCIS service center and by application category. Some cases may be processed in a few months, while others take longer. Premium processing is not available for most EAD applications. Check current USCIS processing time estimates and plan for potential delays.
If USCIS denies your EAD, the notice will explain the reason and whether you can file a motion to reopen, a motion to reconsider, or an appeal. You should act quickly because some remedies have short deadlines. A qualified immigration attorney can evaluate the denial, identify missing evidence or legal arguments, and advise on next steps.
No, you do not need a lawyer to apply for many basic work authorization forms. However, if your case is complex - for example you have prior deportation, criminal records, or uncertain eligibility - legal help can reduce risk and improve chances. Lawyers can also help gather supporting evidence and represent you in appeals.
Employers complete Form I-9 to verify identity and work authorization. Employees present documents from the I-9 Lists - for example a U.S. passport, Permanent Resident Card, or an EAD. Employers may accept combinations of other acceptable documents. Do not provide false documents - that is unlawful. If your employment authorization is temporary, provide updated documentation before it expires.
Many states require minors to obtain a work permit or employment certificate before starting work. Requirements differ by state and sometimes by school district. Work permits typically require parent or school approval and set limits on hours and types of work. Check your state labor department or local school office for specific rules.
An employer must not discriminate on the basis of national origin or citizenship status. However, employers may refuse to hire someone who cannot legally work in the United States. If you believe an employer refused to hire you for an unlawful reason, you may have a claim under federal anti-discrimination laws enforced by the Department of Justice or the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission.
Common issues include incomplete forms, missing or unclear supporting documents, incorrect filing fees, failure to include required translations, prior immigration violations that affect eligibility, and changes in eligibility while the application is pending. Timely responses to requests for evidence from USCIS are important.
To renew an EAD you generally file a new application before the current card expires. USCIS allows filing within certain windows - often 180 days before expiration for many categories. If your card is lost, stolen, or damaged, you can file to replace it. Always check the current USCIS instructions for the form you must use.
Nonprofit legal aid organizations, immigration clinics at law schools, community-based immigrant services groups, and some local bar association pro bono programs provide free or low-cost help. Government agencies also provide information and forms. If your situation is urgent or complex, seek a licensed attorney with experience in immigration or employment law.
Below are types of organizations and agencies that can be useful. Contact the ones that match your need and location:
- U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services - USCIS - for EAD forms, eligibility guidance, and processing updates.
- U.S. Department of Labor - Wage and Hour Division - for federal wage, hour, and child labor rules.
- State labor department or labor cabinet in your state - for rules on minor work permits and state wage-and-hour law.
- Local city or county government offices - for occupational licenses, local permits, and business licensing requirements.
- Local legal aid organizations and immigration legal service providers - for free or low-cost legal assistance.
- American Immigration Lawyers Association - AILA - for referrals to experienced immigration attorneys.
- Local bar association lawyer referral services - for vetted attorney referrals in your area.
If you need legal help with a work permit issue, follow these steps:
- Identify the exact issue - immigration-based work authorization, minor work permit, occupational license, or employer I-9 compliance.
- Gather documents - identification, prior immigration documents, school or employment records, and any notices you received from government agencies.
- Contact the appropriate agency for basic instructions - USCIS for EAD matters, your state labor office for minor work permits, or the local licensing office for occupational permits.
- If your case is complex or a denial or enforcement action is possible, consult a qualified attorney. When choosing a lawyer, confirm their experience in the relevant practice area, ask about fees and expected timelines, and request references if available.
- If cost is a concern, look for nonprofit legal services, law school clinics, or bar association pro bono programs in your area.
Getting the right help early can prevent delays and reduce risk. If you are unsure which path to take, start by contacting a local legal aid organization or a licensed attorney for an initial consultation so you can understand your options and next steps.
