Work and careers in the United States
Who can work in the US, where to look for jobs, how your degree is recognised, and how to work as self-employed.
✓ Checked against the sources: October 2026⚠️ This isn't legal advice. Visa requirements change, so always check the official source or an immigration lawyer.
First: are you allowed to work
In the US you can work if you're a citizen, a green card holder, or have a status that allows work or an Employment Authorization Document (EAD). Usually an employer files a petition for you. An EU passport doesn't give you the right to work in the US.
Since May 1, 2019, Israelis can also get the E-2 treaty investor visa, for people who invest a substantial amount in a US business and run it.
If you don't have a Social Security number (SSN), you request one from the SSA.
Source: USCIS: Working in the United States · USCIS: Israeli nationals and E-2 · SSA: Social Security number
Where to look
- CareerOneStop: the US Department of Labor's career and job search site, including local American Job Centers.
- USAJOBS: federal government jobs. Check each announcement for who may apply.
- Hebrew is an advantage: search LinkedIn for jobs with "Hebrew".
🔒 2 more sections in this guide
- 🎓 Degree recognition
- 🧑💻 Working as self-employed
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