If you have applied for asylum in the United States but are waiting to hear about the decision, you may wonder whether you can seek employment in the meantime. After traveling far and wide, you may need funds or simply want to start saving up for your potential stay in the country. If your asylum application is still pending, you may be permitted to work in the U.S. However, there are specific rules and applications required before you can obtain a job. For more information and skilled legal advice, read on and consult with a knowledgeable Astoria immigration lawyer today.
What is Asylum?
When people have suffered persecution or fear that they will suffer persecution in another country due to their race, religion, nationality, political opinion, or membership in a social group, they may come to the United States in pursuit of what is known as asylum.
Asylum is a form of protection granted to people who have traveled to the U.S. while fleeing persecution. If granted, the individual is authorized to live and work in the country. They can apply for a Social Security number, petition to bring family members to the U.S., apply for travel permits, and eventually seek green card status and citizenship.
Am I Allowed to Work in the U.S. While My Asylum Application is Pending?
The time it takes for an asylum application to be processed can vary significantly depending on many factors. However, even on the more conservative end, it will take several months before you know whether you are granted asylum in the country. During that time, you may want to seek employment to support yourself and your family.
If your application is pending, yes, you can work in the U.S. However, certain requirements must be met. First of all, you must have already filed for asylum and received notice that the USCIS received your application. You must also endure a waiting period of 150 days from the date that the USCIS receives your application. Once 150 days have passed, you can file for employment authorization.
You cannot receive authorization, however, for an additional 30 days. So, in total, you cannot begin working in the U.S. until at least 180 days after the USCIS receives your asylum application. You must also meet all requirements of asylum, like attending interviews and appointments.
How Do I Apply to Work?
The actual application process is fairly straightforward. Once the 150-day waiting period has elapsed, complete and submit Form I-765, the Application for Employment Authorization. Include a copy of your asylum receipt notice, a copy of your arrival and departure records, your completed application, and proof of your identity. You may need to submit additional documentation depending on your circumstances.
If approved, you will be issued an EAD (Employment Authorization Document), which can be valid for up to 5 years, and you may begin seeking employment. If your case is still pending when your EAD expires, you can apply to renew it.
