Work Authorization for Asylum Applicants

1. What documents are needed to apply for work authorization as an asylum applicant?


In order to apply for work authorization as an asylum applicant, you will need to submit Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization, along with the required supporting documents. As an asylum applicant, you must submit a copy of your Form I-589, Application for Asylum and for Withholding of Removal, in order to demonstrate that you have a pending asylum application. You will also need to submit proof of your identity and other supporting documentation such as a copy of your passport, birth certificate, or national identity documents. Additionally, you may need to provide evidence of educational qualifications or experience that is relevant to the job you are applying for.

2. How long does it take to receive a work authorization card after submitting the application?


It generally takes around 3 to 5 months to receive a work authorization card after submitting an application.

3. What types of jobs can an asylum applicant obtain with work authorization?


An asylum applicant with work authorization may be able to obtain any type of job that is available to other non-immigrant workers in the United States, as long as they have the necessary skills, experience, and qualifications required for the position. This includes jobs in fields such as healthcare, technology, engineering, business, education, hospitality, construction, and many more.

4. What is the validity period of the work authorization card?


The validity period of the work authorization card varies depending on the type of authorization issued. In some cases, the work authorization may be valid for a single job or for a limited period of time, while in other cases it may be valid indefinitely.

5. What is the procedure to renew work authorization when it expires?


To renew work authorization when it expires, an individual must file a Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization, which is available on the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) website. The form must be filed along with applicable fees, documentation, and any required supporting evidence. The USCIS typically processes applications within 90 days.

6. Are there any restrictions on the types of employment that asylum applicants can undertake?


Yes, there are restrictions on the types of employment that asylum applicants can undertake. As asylum seekers, they are banned from working in the public sector and in occupations that require certain professional qualifications or licenses. Depending on the country, they may also need to obtain a work permit in order to work legally.

7. Is there any cost associated with applying for work authorization as an asylum applicant?


No, there is no cost associated with applying for work authorization as an asylum applicant. The application for Employment Authorization Document (EAD) should be filed with the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) along with the Form I-589, Application for Asylum and Withholding of Removal. The fee for filing the EAD is waived for asylum applicants.

8. How can an asylum applicant prove his/her identity and eligibility for work authorization?


In order to prove identity and eligibility for work authorization, an asylum applicant must submit a form I-589, Application for Asylum and for Withholding of Removal. This form must be signed, dated, and include a photograph. The asylum applicant must also submit evidence such as passports, birth certificates, or other official documentation demonstrating the applicant’s identity and country of origin. As part of the form I-589, the applicant must also provide evidence of their fear of persecution in their home country such as personal statements, newspaper articles, witness statements, or other similar documents. Once the application is approved, the asylum applicant will receive an employment authorization document (EAD) which will allow them to work legally in the United States.

9. Are there any special requirements to be eligible for work authorization as an asylum applicant?


Yes. Generally, to be eligible for work authorization as an asylum applicant, you must have been physically present in the United States for at least one year after filing a complete asylum application. You must also receive an interim or final decision granting or denying your asylum application before applying for a work permit. Additionally, you must have a pending asylum application, be a refugee and have been granted asylum, or have received withholding of removal, advance parole, or protection under the Convention Against Torture.

10. Can an asylum applicant be employed in the same profession as his/her native country?


In some cases, yes. Employers must first get authorization from the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) before employing asylum seekers, and asylum seekers may need to obtain the necessary license or certificate in their new country to be allowed to practice their profession.

11. Is it possible to apply for a Social Security Number when applying for work authorization as an asylum applicant?


Yes, it is possible to apply for a Social Security Number when applying for work authorization as an asylum applicant. According to the Social Security Administration (SSA), asylum applicants can apply for a Social Security Number after they have been granted asylum status and received their Employment Authorization Document (EAD). They have to submit their application in person at a local SSA office, along with their EAD card and supporting documents.

12. What are the procedures to apply for a driver’s license or state identification card when applying for work authorization as an asylum applicant?


The procedures for applying for a driver’s license or state identification card when applying for work authorization as an asylum applicant vary by state. Generally, asylum applicants need to provide proof of identity, proof of residence in the state, and proof of their work authorization. Depending on the state, they may also need to provide a valid passport or other government-issued ID, evidence of their asylum status, and/or a copy of their I-94 card. Each state also has its own set of fees and processes related to issuing driver’s licenses or IDs. For more specific information about the requirements in your state, contact your state motor vehicle department or the local office of the Department of Homeland Security.

13. What is a Refugee Travel Document and how does it relate to work authorization?


A Refugee Travel Document (Form I-571) is issued to refugees and asylees in the United States who need a travel document to travel abroad. It allows for a refugee or asylee to travel back and forth from their home country and the United States. The Refugee Travel Document does not provide work authorization and is not required for employment purposes.

14. What are the restrictions on travel outside of the US while awaiting a decision on work authorization approval?


If you are applying for a work visa while outside of the US, you will not be able to travel outside the country until the application has been approved. Additionally, it is important to note that if you have received a denial of your application, you will be unable to return to the US unless you have a valid visa or other permission from the US government.

15. What is the process to apply for a green card or permanent residency after receiving work authorization?


The process for applying for a green card or permanent residency after receiving work authorization depends on the type of visa and the country of origin of the individual. Generally, individuals who have received a nonimmigrant visa (such as a work visa) can apply for a green card or permanent residency once they have fulfilled their visa’s requirements. Depending on the visa type and the individual’s country of origin, this could include establishing employment for a certain period of time, proving financial stability, passing a medical exam, and more. It is important to be aware of all applicable requirements before applying. Additionally, individuals should research the application process and timelines to ensure they follow all applicable rules and regulations.

16. Are there any educational or language requirements in order to obtain work authorization as an asylum applicant?


Yes, depending on the country, educational or language requirements may exist to obtain work authorization as an asylum applicant. The specific requirements vary by country, so it is best to check with the local embassy or consulate in the country of residence.

17. How can an asylum applicant prove he/she is legally authorized to live and work in the US?


An asylum applicant can prove their legal authorization to live and work in the US by providing their valid work authorization card, valid passport, immigration documents, or other forms of documentation to prove they have been granted asylum. Additionally, they can provide evidence of their educational qualifications or evidence of any professional experience they possess. Lastly, asylum applicants must receive an employment authorization document from the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) in order to work legally in the US.

18. Is it possible to apply for a Social Security Number with only a valid work authorization card?


Yes, it is possible to apply for a Social Security Number with only a valid work authorization card. The Social Security Administration requires applicants to present certain forms of identification, such as a passport, driver’s license, or state-issued identification card, in addition to a valid work authorization card in order to apply for a Social Security Number.

19. Are there any differences between the rights of refugee and asylee applicants for employment and benefits in the US?


Yes. Refugee applicants are eligible for cash and medical assistance, as well as employment authorization, after their arrival in the US. Asylee applicants are eligible for social services and employment authorization, but not necessarily cash and medical assistance. Both refugee and asylee applicants are eligible for some federal benefits, such as Social Security, Supplemental Security Income (SSI), and Medicaid. However, they may have to wait up to five years before gaining access to these benefits. Additionally, refugee applicants are eligible to apply for a green card one year after their arrival in the US; asylee applicants must wait four years before applying for a green card.

20. How will an asylum applicant know when their application for employment authorization has been approved or denied?


An asylum applicant will receive notification of their application for employment authorization approval or denial in the mail or via email. If the application is approved, the notice should include instructions on how to obtain the Employment Authorization Document (EAD).