What is a work permit

A work permit is a government-issued authorization that allows a foreign national to work legally in a specific country. It ensures the worker meets local immigration and labor requirements and helps employers stay compliant when hiring internationally.

Due to varying permit rules, eligibility, and documentation requirements by country and visa type, not all individuals require a permit to work legally. Understanding the correct permit process is crucial, as unauthorized employment can result in significant penalties for both workers and employers.

What is the purpose of a work permit?

Work permits help governments regulate foreign labor and maintain safe, lawful working environments. Their key purposes include:

1. Legal authorization

They confirm that a worker is permitted to work under immigration and labor laws.

2. Worker protection

Work permits help guarantee fair wages, safe conditions, and access to social protections such as healthcare or pension programs (depending on the country).

3. Employer accountability

Governments use work permits to monitor hiring practices, prevent unauthorized employment, and ensure employers meet local obligations.

4. Labor market regulation

Many countries require employers to prove a role cannot be filled locally—known as a labor market test or shortage occupation assessment.

Obtaining a work permit gives employees the confidence to work legally and gives employers assurance that their workforce is fully compliant.

What type of work can you do with a US work permit (EAD)?

A US Employment Authorization Document (EAD) allows eligible foreign nationals to participate in various forms of work:

Full-time employment

EAD holders can work full-time for most US employers.

Part-time or freelance work

Many categories allow for part-time or project-based work, making them flexible for spouses, students, or those looking to change careers.

Self-employment

Some EAD categories permit running a business or working as an independent contractor.

Specialized or professional roles

Dependents or individuals awaiting permanent residency may take up skilled roles aligned with their background.

Internships and temporary positions

Students and early-career workers often use EADs for internships or training opportunities.

How do you apply for a work permit?

Application processes vary by country, but most follow a similar structure.

General steps to apply for a work permit

1. Determine eligibility

Eligibility is based on visa status, nationality, residency, and the role being offered.

2. Secure a job offer (if required)

Many countries require employers to support or sponsor their employees' applications.

3. Gather documentation

Common requirements include identity documents, proof of residence, job offers, qualifications, and background checks.

4. Submit the application

This may be done online, through a consulate, or via the employer.

5. Pay government fees

Costs range widely depending on the country and permit type.

6. Wait for processing

Approval times range from days to several months, with premium processing available in some countries.

Applying for a work permit in the United States

In the United States, work permits (EADs) are issued by the US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).

How to apply

1. Submit Form I-765 (Application for Employment Authorization).
2. Provide supporting documentation such as visa status, identity documents, and eligibility category.
3. Pay the filing fee or claim an exemption.
4. Attend biometrics (if required).
5. Receive the physical EAD card once approved.

Common eligibility categories

• F-1 students seeking off-campus employment
• H-4 spouses of H-1B workers
• L-2 and E-2 dependents
• Adjustment of Status applicants
• TPS (Temporary Protected Status) holders
• DACA recipients
• Asylum seekers and refugees

Applying for work permits in other countries

European Union

Work authorization varies by member state.

• EU Blue Card: For highly skilled professionals meeting salary and qualification thresholds
• Germany: Job Seeker Visa and Skilled Worker routes
• France: Employers must show the role cannot be filled locally
• Netherlands: Employment licensing often handled by the employer

United Kingdom

Popular work authorization routes include:

• Skilled Worker Visa
• Global Talent Visa
• Scale-Up Worker Visa
• High-Potential Individual Visa
• Youth Mobility Scheme

Singapore

Work is categorized by skill level:

• Work Permit (low-skilled roles)
• S Pass (mid-level workers)
• Employment Pass (professionals and managers, using the COMPASS scoring system)

Australia

Key pathways include:

• Temporary Skill Shortage (TSS) visa (482)
• Skilled Independent Visa (189)
• Employer Nomination Scheme (186)

Eligibility usually depends on occupation lists, employer nomination, and points-based systems.

Do you need a work permit for every country?

In most cases, yes. Most countries require foreign nationals to hold a work permit or work visa before starting employment.

Exceptions

• Digital nomad visas (Portugal, Estonia, Spain)
• Regional mobility arrangements, such as the EU free movement
• Short-term business visits, depending on local rules

Hiring through an Employer of Record (EOR)

Using an Employer of Record, such as Deel, allows companies to hire talent in countries where they don’t have a local entity. Deel manages:

• Work authorization and visa processes
• Local employment contracts
• Payroll, taxes, and benefits
• Compliance with labor and immigration laws

This provides companies with a fully compliant method for hiring workers in over 100 countries.

Benefits of securing a work permit

For employees

• Legal protection and compliance
• Access to local job markets and benefits
• Opportunity for career development abroad
• Potential pathways to permanent residency

For employers

• Compliance with immigration and labor laws
• Reduced risk of penalties or audits
• Access to global talent
• Confidence in managing international hires

Risks of working without a work permit

Legal risks

• Deportation or removal
• Entry bans or future visa restrictions
• Potential criminal charges in severe cases

Financial risks

• Workers may face fines
• Employers may face large penalties or licensing issues

Career and residency implications

• Reduced job opportunities
• Ineligibility for benefits
• Delays or refusals in future immigration applications

Need help securing work permits for your team?

Deel’s global immigration and Employer of Record teams help businesses hire and relocate workers in 100+ countries. We manage work permits, visas, compliance, employment contracts, and payroll—so you can hire anyone, anywhere.

Schedule a free consultation with a Deel immigration expert today.