What Happens If I Worked Without Authorization Before Applying For A Marriage-Based Green Card?

Key Takeaways

• Learn how unauthorized employment can affect your marriage-based green card application.
• Find out what happens if you worked illegally before applying for a marriage-based green card.
• Understand the immigration consequences of working without permission in the U.S.
• Discover what options may be available for married couples filing in Texas.

Can You Still Get a Green Card If You Worked Without Authorization?

Many people who apply for a green card based on marriage have jobs before their paperwork is complete. If you worked illegally before a marriage-based green card application, you’re not alone. The good news is that working without permission does not always mean you’ll be denied.

For most spouses of U.S. citizens, unauthorized employment is forgiven. However, the situation is different for spouses of lawful permanent residents. In those cases, working without authorization could cause serious immigration consequences.

What Does Unauthorized Employment Mean?

Unauthorized employment means working in the United States without having legal permission. This could include:

• Working while on a tourist visa
• Accepting a job without a valid work visa
• Staying and working after your visa expired
• Not following the conditions of your original visa

If you worked illegally before a marriage-based green card application, even part-time or under the table, USCIS may consider that unauthorized employment. That can raise questions about your case and your eligibility for adjustment of status.

What Are the Immigration Consequences?

The immigration consequences of unauthorized work vary depending on your situation. For spouses of U.S. citizens, USCIS often overlooks past unauthorized employment as long as your marriage is real and other documents are in order. In this situation, you can usually still file for a green card from inside the United States.

For spouses of green card holders, however, past unauthorized employment can make you ineligible for adjustment of status. You may have to leave the country and apply through a U.S. consulate, which carries more risks.

Will USCIS Deny My Green Card If I Worked Illegally?

Not always. If your spouse is a U.S. citizen and you apply through adjustment of status, USCIS typically forgives prior unauthorized employment. This includes:

• Working without a permit
• Using someone else’s documents
• Being paid in cash or off the books

However, that doesn’t mean your case is risk-free. If you worked illegally before a marriage-based green card and also overstayed your visa, or had a past removal order, the immigration consequences may be more serious.

Each case is different. That’s why it helps to work with an immigration attorney in Texas who can guide you through the right steps based on your history.

Should You Admit to Unauthorized Employment?

Yes. If you worked illegally before a marriage-based green card filing, you must tell the truth. USCIS will ask about your work history during the interview and on your application. Giving false information can lead to:

• Denial of your green card
• Being barred from future immigration benefits
• Serious long-term immigration consequences

Even if it feels risky, honesty gives you a better chance to explain your situation and show why your marriage is real. It’s common for applicants in Houston and Dallas to be approved despite past unauthorized employment, but only with the right legal support and full transparency.

Does It Matter How Long You Worked Without Permission?

Yes. If you only worked illegally before a marriage-based green card for a short time and stopped as soon as you knew the risks, your case may be stronger. Long-term unauthorized employment or multiple jobs may raise more red flags.

USCIS looks at:

• The length of time you worked
• Whether it happened before or after your marriage
• Whether your job violated the terms of a visa
• Your current immigration status

These factors help USCIS decide how serious the immigration consequences should be.

What Steps Should You Take Next?

If you worked illegally before a marriage-based green card application, the best thing you can do is prepare a strong, honest case. Here’s what can help:

• Be honest on all immigration forms
• Gather documents that show your work history
• Prepare for questions during your interview
• Get legal advice early in the process

A simple mistake or missing detail can turn a forgivable issue into one with serious immigration consequences. Getting help from a law firm that handles cases involving unauthorized employment is one of the most important steps you can take.

Contact Davis & Associates for Help with Your Green Card Case

If you’re worried about how unauthorized employment could affect your case, or if you worked illegally before a marriage-based green card, you’re not alone. These situations are common, and our team at Davis & Associates has helped many clients in Houston and Dallas successfully move forward.

We can walk you through the process, explain the possible immigration consequences, and help you file with confidence. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and take the next step toward your future in the U.S.