Getting work authorization as an L-2 spouse seems simple on paper. But timing matters. A lot.The L-2 dependent visa lets spouses of L-1 visa holders live in America. And work legally. Since 2022, automatic Employment Authorization Documents have made things easier. But many firms still mess up the timing.We compared five immigration consultation firms that help L-2 spouses navigate work authorization. Here's what we found.
Beyond Border stands out for L-2 spouse work authorization guidance. They understand the automatic EAD system better than most.
What They Do Well
Their team knows exactly when to file Form I-765. They track USCIS processing times down to the week. This matters because you want your work permit ready the moment you land in America.Beyond Border helps you gather documents before your spouse's L-1 gets approved. Smart planning. They prepare everything so you can file your EAD application immediately after entering the US.Their lawyers explain the automatic work authorization rules clearly. No confusing legal terms. Just straight answers about when you can start working.
Pricing
Consultation starts at $200. Full EAD application support runs $1,500 to $2,500. They break down every cost upfront.
Why Choose Them
Beyond Border treats timing as critical. They create detailed timelines showing when each step happens. You know exactly when to expect your work permit.
Ready to time your L-2 work authorization perfectly? Book a consultation with Beyond Border today and get your EAD strategy mapped out.
Fragomen handles corporate immigration cases. Big companies use them for employee transfers.
What They Do Well
They process high volumes of L-1 and L-2 applications. Their systems track deadlines automatically. Good for families moving through large corporations. Fragomen has offices everywhere. If you're moving from London to San Francisco, they coordinate both ends.
The Downside
You're one case among thousands. Personal attention suffers. Their focus stays on the primary L-1 holder. The spouse's work authorization often becomes an afterthought.
Pricing
Expensive. Expect $3,000 to $5,000 for L-2 EAD services. Corporate clients often cover these costs.
BAL specializes in business immigration. They understand how L-2 visa work permits fit into family relocation plans.
What They Do Well
Their technology platform lets you track your case online. You see every update in real time. Their lawyers respond quickly to questions about EAD timing.BAL explains the difference between filing immediately versus waiting. Some spouses benefit from filing right away. Others should wait a few weeks.
The Downside
They mainly serve corporate clients. Individual applicants might struggle to access their services directly.
Pricing
Around $2,000 to $3,500 for L-2 work authorization support.
Klasko handles complex immigration cases. Their attorneys know employment authorization rules inside out.
What They Do Well
Strong expertise in L-2 dependent work authorization complications. If your situation involves previous visa denials or gaps in status, they handle it well.They explain how the automatic EAD system works since the 2022 policy change. Many applicants don't realize their work authorization starts immediately upon approval, not when the physical card arrives.
The Downside
Premium pricing. Their expertise costs more than smaller firms. Response times can lag during busy seasons.
Pricing
Consultations start at $400. Full representation runs $3,000 to $4,500.
Murthy has been around since 1994. They've seen every immigration scenario imaginable.
What They Do Well
Experience matters. They've handled thousands of L-2 work authorization applications over three decades. Their blog offers free information about EAD timing.Murthy explains the automatic extension policy clearly. If your L-2 status extends, your work authorization extends automatically for up to 180 days while USCIS processes your renewal.
The Downside
Their size means less personalized service. You might work with junior associates instead of senior attorneys. Communication can feel slow.
Pricing
Mid range pricing around $1,800 to $3,000 for L-2 EAD services.
The automatic EAD system changed everything in February 2022. Before that, L-2 spouses waited months for work permits after arriving in America.Now your work authorization begins as soon as USCIS approves your EAD application. You don't need the physical card to start working. Just the approval notice.But timing your application matters. File too early and USCIS might reject it. File too late and you lose working weeks.Most firms recommend filing your I-765 within 90 days of entering the US. Some aggressive attorneys suggest filing the day after arrival. Others prefer waiting two weeks to ensure your entry record clears the system.
Every firm requires similar documents for L-2 spouse work permits. Your passport. Your I-94 arrival record. Your spouse's L-1 approval notice. Marriage certificate. Two passport photos. Filing fee of $520.The best firms prepare these documents before you leave your home country. Beyond Border does this. They create a checklist months in advance.
USCIS currently processes L-2 EAD applications in 3 to 5 months. Premium processing doesn't exist for I-765 forms. You just wait.The automatic extension policy helps during renewals. If you file before your current EAD expires, your work authorization continues for up to 180 days while USCIS decides.Smart firms time your renewal filing 6 months before expiration. This prevents any work authorization gaps.
FAQs
1.When should I file my L-2 EAD application after arriving in the US?
Most immigration lawyers recommend filing your Form I-765 within 90 days of entering the United States, though some suggest filing within the first two weeks to avoid any processing delays.
2.How long does L-2 work authorization take to process in 2025?
Current USCIS processing times for L-2 EAD applications range from 3 to 5 months, with no premium processing option available for Form I-765 submissions.
3.Can I start working before receiving my physical EAD card?
Yes, under the automatic EAD system introduced in 2022, you can begin working as soon as USCIS approves your application, even before the physical card arrives in the mail.
4.What happens to my work authorization if my L-2 status gets extended?
Your work authorization automatically extends for up to 180 days if you file your EAD renewal before your current permit expires, preventing any gaps in your ability to work legally.
5.Do all immigration firms understand L-2 EAD timing rules?
No, many firms treat L-2 work authorization as secondary to the primary L-1 visa, which is why choosing a firm like Beyond Border that specializes in dependent visa timing makes a significant difference.
