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Stage 2: Filing Your Paperwork

Applying for Work Authorization

When can I apply for work authorization?

If you are applying for asylum, you can apply for work authorization after your asylum clock has reached 150 days. However, you will not be able to receive your work authorization until 180 days have elapsed.

 

If you are a TPS holder, eligible for TPS, and/or have valid parole, you can apply for work authorization sooner. If you enter the border with a CPBOne appointment, you can submit your work authorization based on that parole. Please note, if you are applying for your work authorization on the basis of TPS or parole, your work authorization will only be valid as long as those protections are in place. In other words, if your TPS expires after a certain date, so will your work authorization. Note that, unless you submit a fee waiver, you will have to pay for your work authorization if you are applying based on TPS or parole.

 

Applying for work authorization involves filling out the I-765 form. Compared to the asylum application, it is quite an easy form, but some of the information is the same as on your asylum application. Make sure the information you enter on immigration forms is consistent and correct. You will need a copy of an official photo ID, evidence that you have submitted your I-589 (asylum application) at least 150 days earlier, along with 2 passport photos (write your name and A number lightly on the back of the photos).


For a more complete guide on how to apply for work authorization, please refer to PSPP Partner UnLocal’s presentation on work authorization/EADs.

What are the steps for filing my work authorization?

You can file your I-765 online or via paper copy.


To file your I-765 online, you will have to create a USCIS account and fill out the application in the USCIS portal (this may not be a good idea if you do not know how to navigate the internet or have stable access to a computer). Please refer to the USCIS page for further guidance on where to submit the paper version of the I-765.

What happens after I submit work authorization?

After you submit work authorization, the following steps typically take place. First, you will receive a notice, by mail and, if you filed online, by email, that USCIS has received your work authorization application. Then, if your work authorization application is approved, you will receive an approval notice. Your work permit, and social security card (if you applied for it on the form), will arrive a few days later at the mailing address you listed on the work permit application. If you have moved from that address, you will need to submit a change of address (AR-11) to USCIS.

 

The Asylum Seeker Advocacy Project has examples of what these documents look like:

Stage 2 Questions

Stage 2: Filing Your Paperwork

​

Figuring Out Your Eligibility

  • What are my options?

  • What is asylum?

  • What is TPS?

  • What is SIJS?

​

Preparing & Submitting Your Asylum Application

  • How do I fill out my asylum application?

  • How do I submit my asylum application?

  • What happens after I submit my asylum application?​

​​Applying for Work Authorization

  • When can I apply for work authorization?

  • What are the steps for filing my work authorization?

  • What happens after I submit work authorization?

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