Work Authorization

Work authorization is legal permission to work in a country or jurisdiction. Permission may come from citizenship, permanent residence, a visa, a permit, or another status, and it may include limits on employer, occupation, hours, location, or duration.

Employers need to know whether a candidate can legally perform the job and whether current or future sponsorship may be required; the wording and timing of questions vary by country and local law. Work authorization is different from identity, nationality, and work location; a person can live in one country without permission to work there, or have authorization that applies only under certain conditions. Remote work across borders can create additional immigration, tax, payroll, and employment issues; answer application questions fully and accurately using the status and documents that apply to you.

For example, a visa may permit work for a specific employer and period rather than providing unrestricted permission in the country.