Global HR Glossary

What is Work Authorization? 

Work authorization is the official approval that allows individuals to be employed legally in a particular country. This permission is crucial to comply with a country's immigration and labor laws, which regulate who is allowed to work and under what conditions. Employers must verify the work authorization of all new hires to avoid legal penalties, which can include fines and sanctions.

Types of Work Authorization

• Work Visas: Issued to foreign nationals allowing them to work for a specific employer in the host country.

• Employment Authorization Documents (EADs): Issued typically in countries like the United States, allowing individuals to work legally without being tied to one specific employer.

• Residence Permits with Work Rights: Allow individuals to live and work in the country.

HR Responsibilities

• Verification: Ensuring all employees have valid work authorization.

• Record-Keeping: Maintaining copies of work authorization documents.

• Renewal Monitoring: Keeping track of expiration dates and assisting with renewal applications when necessary.

Efficient management of work authorization supports compliance with immigration laws and safeguards against the risks of unauthorized employment.