L and E spouses to get work authorization

On January 17, 2002, President Bush signed a new law that will authorize the spouses of L and E nonimmigrants to obtain work authorization. (L nonimmigrants are intra-company transferees, and E nonimmigrants are treaty traders and investors.) This is open market employment - spouses can accept employment with any employer.

The INS has since announced that work authorization is not automatic. Spouses will be required to obtain an Employment Authorization Document (EAD) in order to work. Procedures for obtaining the EADs have not yet been clarified. Contact our office for the latest information.