If you are looking to work in California whether as a student looking for part-time work or an immigrant aspiring to join the workforce, obtaining a California work permit is a must. A work permit is a legal document that allows you to work in the state of California. It shows your employer that you have permission from the California government to live and work in California on that particular job.
It’s important to note that minors under the age of 14 are generally not allowed to work, with a few exceptions such as acting or delivering newspapers. There are processes you must follow to obtain this work permit especially if you want the process to be easy. To get a work permit in California, Here are some steps you need to follow.
How can I get a permit to work in California?
Firstly, you will need to meet certain eligibility criteria to obtain a California work permit. These criteria include age limitations, academic requirements, and health considerations.
Age Limitations
In California, minors under the age of 18 must obtain a work permit before they can be employed, but there are strict regulations governing the types of jobs and working hours allowed for different age groups.
Academic Requirements
To be eligible for a work permit, you must meet certain academic requirements, especially if you are currently enrolled in school, but if you are not enrolled in school, you must have a high school diploma or a certificate of proficiency.
Health Considerations
In addition to meeting age and academic requirements, you must also be in good health to obtain a work permit. You will need to provide documentation from a physician stating that you are physically able to work.
It is important to note that work permits are issued on a case-by-case basis. If you do not meet the eligibility criteria outlined above, you may still be able to obtain a work permit if you can give a strong reason.
Application Process for California Work Permit
There are specific procedures you will have to go through if you want to get a work permit in California. The application process is broken down as follows:
Documents Required
- A Statement of Intent to Employ Minor and Request for Work Permit form (CDE B1-1 form)
- A Permit to Employ and Work form (CDE B1-4 form)
- Proof of age (birth certificate, driver’s license, passport, etc.)
- Social Security card
- School attendance records
Filling Out the Application
- Obtain a Statement of Intent to Employ Minor and Request for Work Permit form from your school or school district office.
- Fill out the top section of the form with your personal information.
- Have your employer fill out the bottom section of the form with their information.
- Have your parent or guardian sign the form.
- Provide proof of age and school attendance records to your school or school district office.
- The school or school district will then issue a Permit to Employ and Work form.
Submission of Application
Once you have finished the application, submit it to your school or school district office. After reviewing the application, the school or school district will provide a Permit to Employ and Work form if everything is in order.
Remember that the duration of your work permit’s validity is listed on the permit. You will require a new work permit if your employer changes. Your employment permit might also be revoked if your academic performance or attendance at school deteriorates.
You can acquire a work permit in California and start working lawfully by following these procedures.
After the application submission, you will have to wait for the approval process. It will be reviewed by the school district. They will confirm that you meet all eligibility requirements and that all necessary information has been given. If there are any problems with your application, the school district will get in touch with you. If not, your application will be accepted and a work permit will be given to you.
You will receive a work permit after your application is accepted. It will be sent to the address indicated on your application. You must show your employer this work permit before you can start working, so it’s crucial that you keep it in a safe place.
Be sure to thoroughly read your work permit when you receive it. Verify that all details, such as your name, age, and the permitted hours of employment, are accurate. If there are any mistakes, get in touch with the school system right away to have them fixed.
Renewal Process
You must reapply to the California Department of Education if you wish to renew your work permit in the state of California. Your work permit may be extended up to five days before its expiration. The same information such as your name, age, place of employment, and school that you gave when you first applied for the permission must be provided. Additionally, you’ll need to show documentation indicating you’re still taking classes and that your grades are passing.
Rules and Regulations of California Work Permit
- You can only work a maximum of 4 hours during the school day and 8 hours on non-school days if you are under the age of 16.
- You cannot work in any organization that is deemed hazardous or damaging to your health if you are under the age of 18.
- Without a special permit, individuals under the age of 16 are not permitted to work in some businesses, including the entertainment sector.
- Your work permit must be renewed before it expires.
It is important to recognize that your employer is accountable for adhering to all laws and rules regarding child labor. Your work permit can be revoked and your company might pay fines and penalties if they break any rules and regulations as regards employment laws.
You must also note that there are several ways to migrate to California, including having a family sponsor you or studying at a California University as an International Student.
If you have a job offer letter and have a university degree, you have the best chance of getting a California work permit, because the year is coming to an end and early next year you can apply for the visa then your trip can start in January.
Work Permits and Employment-Based Visas for California
California offers work permits and employment-based visas for different types of expert workers moving to California for job-related purposes for a particular period of time.
Eligibility
You need to figure out if you are eligible for a work permit in California. Work permits are often issued for certain categories of visas, such as employment-based visas, family-sponsored visas, or as part of certain international agreements.
Secure a Job Offer
You normally require a job offer from a U.S. company in order to submit a work permit application. Depending on the visa category, the employer might need to sponsor your work permit application.
Choose the Appropriate Visa Category
You must apply for the correct visa type that permits you to work in the US depending on your situation. Among other categories of work visas are the H-1B, L-1, E-2, and TN visas.
File Visa Petition
Most of the time, your employer will have to submit a visa petition to the USCIS on your behalf. If necessary for specific visa types, they might additionally need to get a labor certification.
Wait for Approval
The petition will be examined by USCIS, and if approved, an approval notice will be issued. Depending on the type of visa and demand, this process can take a number of days.
Foreign nationals are given the authorization to work in the US through a California work permit, also known as an Employment Authorization Document (EAD).
Once your visa petition is approved, you can apply for an Employment Authorization Document (EAD) by creating an online USCIS (United States Citizenship and Immigration Services) account and submitting Form I-765. Review the guidelines, then pay the filing fee.
If your application is accepted, USCIS will mail your work permit to the address you supplied.
Termination of California Work Permit
Your California work permit can be terminated for these reasons
- Completion of the job or project
- End of the school year
- Termination of employment by the employer
- Violation of child labor laws
- Failure to maintain satisfactory grades
Congratulations, you’ve just made a big step in achieving your professional objectives in California. You can now explore the job market, obtain useful experience, and set the route for your future success since you have your work permit in hand.
