If you’re wondering how to fill out the I-765 form, what to expect, or need tips, this guide is for you. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to fill out the work authorization form.
When you submit an Adjustment of Status or Green Card application (I-485 form), you’ll gain access to various US benefits, including the right to work legally. However, this process can take up to 14 months. To bridge this gap, I applied for a work permit, also known as an Employment Authorization Document (EAD), which typically takes only 1-3 months to process. By submitting Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization, you can find employment and work legally in the US while waiting for your Green Card approval.
How to download the latest I-765 form?
You can download Form I-765, along with instructions and related information, from the Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) website. Before completing the form, ensure you’re using the latest edition, as USCIS will reject outdated versions. Always check the USCIS website for the most up-to-date version of the form.
Page 1
Page 1 contains Part 1 and 2 of the application form including Reason for Applying and Information about you (the applicant). It is typically straightforward questions and answers.
Page 2
Page 2 of the application form continues with additional information about you, such as your addresses, Alien Registration Number, Social Security number, parents’ names, and citizenship or nationality. All of it are straightforward to fill in. I have highlighted the items below for easier reference and clarification.
Page 3
Page 3 is still continuation about you, your travel or entry record to the US or the I-94 record and your eligibility category in applying for work authorization.
*To determine which eligibility category applies to you, refer to the I-765 instructions available for download on the USCIS website. I have been classified as (c)(9), as described below since I have applied for my I-765 work authorization along with my application for adjustment of status or the I-485 Form.
Page 4
Page 4, Part 3 & 4 of the form covers the applicant’s (you) statement, contact information, declaration, certification, and signature, all of which are straightforward to complete. It also includes Part 4, which requests details about your interpreter. If this section does not apply to you, simply enter “N/A” in all fields. Most importantly, be sure to affix your signature in this section.
Page 5
Page 5 continues with the interpreter’s information, if applicable. If you do not have an interpreter, enter “N/A” in all fields. It also includes Part 5 of the forms about the preparer’s details and information. If you do not have a preparer, enter “N/A” in all fields.
Page 6
Page 6 is the continuation of Preparer’s information. If you do not have a preparer, enter “N/A” in all fields.
Page 7
Page 7, Part 6, is for Additional Information. You can use this section if you need to provide extra details that do not fit in with the previous pages of the application.
Conclusion
Review the form to ensure that all fields are filled in. We want to avoid any empty spaces. Double-check that all the details are correct, as it’s important to submit an accurate form. It’s a good idea to review it multiple times before submitting, as the last thing we want is a rejection.
Most importantly, once you are sure that all are complete, print the form. When printing make sure make sure that the form edition date and page numbers are visible at the bottom of all pages and that all pages are from the same form edition. If any of the form’s pages are missing or are from a different form edition, USCIS may reject your form.
Definitions:
I-765 form
The I-765 form is an application for Employment Authorization, filed with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). It’s used by foreign nationals who want to work in the United States.
- The I-765 form is required for individuals who:
- Are in the process of applying for a green card
- Have been granted asylum or refugee status
- Are in the United States on a non-immigrant visa, such as an F-1 student visa
- Have other eligible immigration statuses
- By filing Form I-765, applicants can obtain an Employment Authorization Document (EAD), which allows them to work legally in the United States.
I-485 form
The I-485 form, also known as the Application to Register Permanent Resident or Adjustment of Status, is a document filed with the USCIS to apply for a Green Card.
- The I-485 form is used by foreign nationals who are:
- Already in the United States and want to adjust their status to permanent resident.
- Eligible for a Green Card through family sponsorship, employment, refugee or asylum status, or other categories. For the official list of categories, visit the Green Card eligibility categories website.
Employment Authorization Document (EAD)
The EAD is the card (also known as Form I-688A, Form I-688B, Form I-766, or any successor document) issued as evidence that the holder is authorized to work in the United States.
Work permit
A work permit is an official document that grants a foreign national permission to work in a specific country. It is usually issued by the government or immigration authorities and is required for individuals who are not citizens of the country but want to engage in employment.
Work authorization
Also known as employment authorization, refers to the permission granted to an individual to work in a specific country. It can be in the form of a document, such as a work permit, Employment Authorization Document (EAD), or a notation on a passport. Work authorization is usually required for foreign nationals who want to work in a country where they are not citizens.
USCIS
USCIS stands for United States Citizenship and Immigration Services. It’s a federal agency responsible for managing and processing immigration and citizenship benefits for individuals residing in the United States.
