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Fill Out Your I 765 Form

The I-765 form is an application for Employment Authorization, allowing eligible individuals to request permission to work in the United States. This form can be used for several purposes, including initial employment authorization, renewal, or replacement of lost or stolen documents. If you're ready to apply, click the button below to get started.

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Article Structure

Form I-765 is an important document for individuals seeking employment authorization in the United States. This application allows eligible applicants to request permission to work for a specified period. There are several scenarios in which you might need to file this form. You may be applying for initial employment authorization, renewing an existing authorization, or replacing a lost or damaged document. It is crucial to carefully select the correct reason for your application, as this can affect the processing of your request. In addition to providing your personal information, including your full legal name and contact details, you will also need to disclose your eligibility category. This helps the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) determine your qualifications for employment authorization. The form requires attention to detail, and you must ensure all sections are completed accurately. Generally, it is advised to submit the I-765 along with any required supporting documents to avoid delays or potential denials. Your application could make a significant difference, so following the instructions closely will enhance its chances for approval.

I 765 Example

Family Name (Last Name)

Given Name (First Name)

Middle Name

Family Name (Last Name)

Given Name (First Name)

Middle Name

Family Name (Last Name)

Given Name (First Name)

Middle Name

Renewal of my permission to accept employment. (Attach a copy of your previous employment authorization document.)

NOTE: Replacement (correction) of an employment authorization document due to USCIS error does not require a new Form I-765 and filing fee. Refer to Replacement for Card Error in the What is the Filing Fee section of the Form I-765 Instructions for further details.

Initial permission to accept employment.

Replacement of lost, stolen, or damaged employment authorization document, or correction of my employment authorization document NOT DUE to U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) error.

Application For Employment Authorization

USCIS

Department of Homeland Security

Form I-765

OMB No. 1615-0040

U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services

Expires 07/31/2022

Authorization/Extension

Fee Stamp

Action Block

Valid From

For

Authorization/Extension

Valid Through

USCIS

Use

Only

Alien Registration Number A-

Remarks

To be completed by an attorney or

Select this box if Form G-28

Attorney or Accredited Representative

Board of Immigration Appeals (BIA)-

is attached.

USCIS Online Account Number (if any)

accredited representative (if any).

►START HERE - Type or print in black ink. Answer all questions fully and accurately. If a question does not apply to you (for example, if you have never been married and the question asks, “Provide the name of your current spouse”), type or print “N/A” unless otherwise directed. If your answer to a question which requires a numeric response is zero or none (for example, “How many children do you have” or “How many times have you departed the United States”), type or print “None” unless otherwise directed.

Part 1. Reason for Applying

I am applying for (select only one box):

1.a. 1.b.

1.c.

Part 2. Information About You

Your Full Legal Name

1.a. Family Name

(Last Name)

1.b. Given Name

(First Name)

1.c. Middle Name

Other Names Used

Provide all other names you have ever used, including aliases, maiden name, and nicknames. If you need extra space to complete this section, use the space provided in Part 6. Additional Information.

2.a.

2.b.

2.c.

3.a.

3.b.

3.c.

4.a.

4.b.

4.c.

Form I-765 Edition 08/25/20

Page 1 of 7

Part 2. Information About You (continued)

Your U.S. Mailing Address

(USPS ZIP Code Lookup)

5.a. In Care Of Name (if any)

5.b.	Street Number
	Street Number
	and Name
5.c.	Apt.	Ste.		Flr.
5.c.	Apt.	Ste.		Flr.
5.d.	City or Town



5.e.	State		5.f.	ZIP Code
5.e.	State		5.f.	ZIP Code

6.Is your current mailing address the same as your physical

	address?				Yes	No
	NOTE: If you answered “No” to Item Number 6.,
	provide your physical address below.

U.S. Physical Address
7.a.	Street Number
	Street Number
	and Name
7.b.	Apt.	Ste.		Flr.
7.b.	Apt.	Ste.		Flr.
7.c.	City or Town



7.d.			7.e.
7.d.	State		7.e.	ZIP Code

Other Information

8.Alien Registration Number (A-Number) (if any)

► A-

9.USCIS Online Account Number (if any)

►

10. Gender

Male

Female

11.Marital Status

Single

Married

Divorced

Widowed

12.Have you previously filed Form I-765?

Yes No

13.a. Has the Social Security Administration (SSA) ever officially issued a Social Security card to you?

Yes No

NOTE: If you answered “No” to Item Number 13.a., skip to Item Number 14. If you answered “Yes” to Item Number 13.a., provide the information requested in Item

Number 13.b.

13.b. Provide your Social Security number (SSN) (if known).

►

14.Do you want the SSA to issue you a Social Security card? (You must also answer “Yes” to Item Number 15., Consent for Disclosure, to receive a card.)

Yes No

NOTE: If you answered “No” to Item Number 14., skip to Part 2., Item Number 18.a. If you answered “Yes” to Item Number 14., you must also answer “Yes” to Item

Number 15.

15.Consent for Disclosure: I authorize disclosure of information from this application to the SSA as required for the purpose of assigning me an SSN and issuing me a

Social Security card.

Yes

NOTE: If you answered “Yes” to Item Numbers

14.- 15., provide the information requested in Item Numbers 16.a. - 17.b.

Father's Name

Provide your father's birth name.

16.a. Family Name (Last Name)

16.b. Given Name (First Name)

Mother's Name

Provide your mother's birth name.

17.a. Family Name (Last Name)

17.b. Given Name (First Name)

Your Country or Countries of Citizenship or Nationality

List all countries where you are currently a citizen or national. If you need extra space to complete this item, use the space provided in Part 6. Additional Information.

18.a. Country

18.b. Country

Form I-765 Edition 08/25/20

Page 2 of 7

Part 2. Information About You (continued)

Place of Birth

List the city/town/village, state/province, and country where you were born.

19.a. City/Town/Village of Birth

19.b. State/Province of Birth

19.c. Country of Birth

20. Date of Birth (mm/dd/yyyy)

Information About Your Last Arrival in the United States

21.a. Form I-94 Arrival-Departure Record Number (if any)

►

21.b. Passport Number of Your Most Recently Issued Passport

21.c. Travel Document Number (if any)

21.d. Country That Issued Your Passport or Travel Document

21.e. Expiration Date for Passport or Travel Document (mm/dd/yyyy)

22.Date of Your Last Arrival Into the United States, On or

About (mm/dd/yyyy)

23.Place of Your Last Arrival Into the United States

24.Immigration Status at Your Last Arrival (for example, B-2 visitor, F-1 student, or no status)

25.Your Current Immigration Status or Category (for example, B-2 visitor, F-1 student, parolee, deferred action, or no status or category)

26.Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS) Number (if any)

►N-

Information About Your Eligibility Category

27.Eligibility Category. Refer to the Who May File Form I-765 section of the Form I-765 Instructions to determine the appropriate eligibility category for this application.

Enter the appropriate letter and number for your eligibility category below (for example, (a)(8), (c)(17)(iii)).

(

) (

)

28.(c)(3)(C) STEM OPT Eligibility Category. If you entered the eligibility category (c)(3)(C) in Item Number 27., provide the information requested in Item Numbers 28.a. - 28.c.

28.a. Degree

28.b. Employer's Name as Listed in E-Verify

28.c. Employer's E-Verify Company Identification Number or a Valid E-Verify Client Company Identification Number

29.(c)(26) Eligibility Category. If you entered the eligibility category (c)(26) in Item Number 27., provide the receipt number of your H-1B spouse's most recent Form I-797 Notice for Form I-129, Petition for a Nonimmigrant Worker.

►

30.(c)(8) Eligibility Category If you entered the eligibility category (c)(8) in Item Number 27., provide the information requested in Item Numbers 30.a. - 30.g.

30.a. Have you EVER been arrested for, and/or charged with, and/or convicted of any crime in any country?

Yes No

NOTE: If you answered “Yes” to Item Number 30.a., refer to Special Filing Instructions for Those With Pending Asylum Applications (c)(8) of the Form I-765 Instructions for information about providing court dispositions.

30.b. Did you enter the United States lawfully through a U.S. port of entry and were you inspected and admitted or paroled after inspection by an immigration officer? (If you answer “Yes,” you MUST provide evidence of your lawful entry.)

Yes

30.c. If you answered “No” to Item Number 30.b., did you present yourself to the Secretary of Homeland Security or his or her delegate (DHS) within 48 hours of entry or attempted entry AND express an intention to seek asylum within the United States or express a fear of persecution

or torture in your home country?	Yes	No

Form I-765 Edition 08/25/20

Page 3 of 7

Part 2. Information About You (continued)

If you answered “Yes” to Item Number 30.c., provide the following information:

30.d. Date you presented yourself to DHS

30.e. Location where you presented yourself to DHS

30.f. Country of claimed persecution

30.g. Provide an explanation for why you did not enter the United States lawfully through a U.S. port of entry. If you need extra space to complete this item, use the space provided in Part 6. Additional Information.

NOTE: Refer to the Special Filing Instructions for Those With Pending Asylum Applications (c)(8) section of the Form

I-765 Instructions for more information.

31.a. (c)(35) and (c)(36) Eligibility Category. If you entered the eligibility category (c)(35) in Item Number 27., please provide the receipt number of your Form I-797 Notice for Form I-140, Immigrant Petition for Alien Worker. If you entered the eligibility category (c)(36) in Item Number

27., please provide the receipt number of your spouse's or parent's Form I-797 Notice for Form I-140.

►

31.b. If you entered the eligibility category (c)(35) or (c)(36) in Item Number 27., have you EVER been arrested for

and/or convicted of any crime?

Yes

NOTE: If you answered “Yes” to Item Number 31.b., refer to Employment-Based Nonimmigrant Categories, Items 8. - 9., in the Who May File Form I-765 section of the Form I-765 Instructions for information about providing court dispositions.

Part 3. Applicant's Statement, Contact

Information, Declaration, Certification, and

Signature

NOTE: Read the Penalties section of the Form I-765 Instructions before completing this section. You must file Form I-765 while in the United States.

Applicant's Statement

NOTE: Select the box for either Item Number 1.a. or 1.b. If applicable, select the box for Item Number 2.

1.a. I can read and understand English, and I have read and understand every question and instruction on this application and my answer to every question.

1.b. The interpreter named in Part 4. read to me every question and instruction on this application and my answer to every question in

a language in which I am fluent, and I understood everything.

2. At my request, the preparer named in Part 5.,

prepared this application for me based only upon information I provided or authorized.

Applicant's Contact Information

3.Applicant's Daytime Telephone Number

4.Applicant's Mobile Telephone Number (if any)

5.Applicant's Email Address (if any)

6. Select this box if you are a Salvadoran or Guatemalan national eligible for benefits under the ABC settlement agreement.

Applicant's Declaration and Certification

Copies of any documents I have submitted are exact photocopies of unaltered, original documents, and I understand that USCIS may require that I submit original documents to USCIS at a later date. Furthermore, I authorize the release of any information from any and all of my records that USCIS may need to determine my eligibility for the immigration benefit that I seek.

I furthermore authorize release of information contained in this application, in supporting documents, and in my USCIS records, to other entities and persons where necessary for the administration and enforcement of U.S. immigration law.

Form I-765 Edition 08/25/20

Page 4 of 7

Part 3. Applicant's Statement, Contact

Information, Declaration, Certification, and

Signature (continued)

I understand that USCIS may require me to appear for an appointment to take my biometrics (fingerprints, photograph, and/or signature) and, at that time, if I am required to provide biometrics, I will be required to sign an oath reaffirming that:

1)I reviewed and understood all of the information contained in, and submitted with, my application; and

2)All of this information was complete, true, and correct at the time of filing.

I certify, under penalty of perjury, that all of the information in my application and any document submitted with it were provided or authorized by me, that I reviewed and understand all of the information contained in, and submitted with, my application and that all of this information is complete, true, and correct.

Applicant's Signature

7.a. Applicant's Signature

7.b. Date of Signature (mm/dd/yyyy)

NOTE TO ALL APPLICANTS: If you do not completely fill out this application or fail to submit required documents listed in the Instructions, USCIS may deny your application.

Part 4. Interpreter's Contact Information, Certification, and Signature

Interpreter's Mailing Address

3.a.	Street Number
3.a.	Street Number
3.b.	and Name
		Ste.
	Apt.	Ste.		Flr.
3.c.	City or Town



3.d.			3.e.
3.d.	State		3.e.	ZIP Code
3.f.
	Province
	Province
3.g.	Postal Code


3.h.	Country
3.h.	Country

Interpreter's Contact Information

4.Interpreter's Daytime Telephone Number

5.Interpreter's Mobile Telephone Number (if any)

6.Interpreter's Email Address (if any)

Part 4. Interpreter's Contact Information, Certification, and Signature

Provide the following information about the interpreter.

Interpreter's Full Name

1.a. Interpreter's Family Name (Last Name)

1.b. Interpreter's Given Name (First Name)

2.Interpreter's Business or Organization Name (if any)

Interpreter's Certification

I certify, under penalty of perjury, that:
I am fluent in English and	,

which is the same language specified in Part 3., Item Number 1.b., and I have read to this applicant in the identified language every question and instruction on this application and his or her answer to every question. The applicant informed me that he or she understands every instruction, question, and answer on the application, including the Applicant's Declaration and Certification, and has verified the accuracy of every answer.

Interpreter's Signature

7.a. Interpreter's Signature

7.b. Date of Signature (mm/dd/yyyy)

Form I-765 Edition 08/25/20

Page 5 of 7

Part 5. Contact Information, Declaration, and Signature of the Person Preparing this Application, If Other Than the Applicant

Provide the following information about the preparer.

Preparer's Full Name

1.a. Preparer's Family Name (Last Name)

1.b. Preparer's Given Name (First Name)

2.Preparer's Business or Organization Name (if any)

Preparer's Mailing Address

3.a.	Street Number
3.a.	Street Number
3.b.	and Name
		Ste.
	Apt.	Ste.		Flr.
3.c.	City or Town



3.d.			3.e.
3.d.	State		3.e.	ZIP Code
3.f.
	Province
	Province
3.g.	Postal Code


3.h.	Country
3.h.	Country

Preparer's Contact Information

4.Preparer's Daytime Telephone Number

5.Preparer's Mobile Telephone Number (if any)

6.Preparer's Email Address (if any)

Preparer's Statement

7.a.	I am not an attorney or accredited representative but
	have prepared this application on behalf of the
	applicant and with the applicant's consent.
7.b.	I am an attorney or accredited representative and my
	representation of the applicant in this case
	extends	does not extend beyond the
	preparation of this application.

NOTE: If you are an attorney or accredited representative, you need to submit a completed Form G-28, Notice of Entry of Appearance as Attorney or Accredited Representative, with this application.

Preparer's Certification

By my signature, I certify, under penalty of perjury, that I prepared this application at the request of the applicant. The applicant then reviewed this completed application and informed me that he or she understands all of the information contained in, and submitted with, his or her application, including the Applicant's Declaration and Certification, and that all of this information is complete, true, and correct. I completed this application based only on information that the applicant provided to me or authorized me to obtain or use.

Preparer's Signature

8.a. Preparer's Signature

8.b. Date of Signature (mm/dd/yyyy)

Form I-765 Edition 08/25/20

Page 6 of 7

Part 6. Additional Information

If you need extra space to provide any additional information within this application, use the space below. If you need more space than what is provided, you may make copies of this page to complete and file with this application or attach a separate sheet of paper. Type or print your name and A-Number (if any) at the top of each sheet; indicate the Page Number, Part Number, and Item Number to which your answer refers; and sign and date each sheet.

1.a.

Family Name

1.b.

(Last Name)

Given Name

1.c.

(First Name)

Middle Name

A-Number (if any) ►A-

3.a.

Page Number 3.b. Part Number 3.c. Item Number

3.d.

4.a. Page Number 4.b. Part Number 4.c. Item Number

4.d.

5.a. Page Number 5.b. Part Number 5.c. Item Number

5.d.

6.a. Page Number 6.b. Part Number 6.c. Item Number

6.d.

7.a. Page Number 7.b. Part Number 7.c. Item Number

7.d.

Form I-765 Edition 08/25/20

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Get I 765 PDF Form

Form Characteristics

Fact Name	Description
Purpose	The Form I-765 is used to apply for employment authorization in the United States.
Eligibility	Applicants must meet specific eligibility categories as outlined in the form instructions.
Renewal Option	The form can be used to renew existing employment authorization, requiring a previous authorization document.
Replacement Cases	This form also serves as a request for replacing lost or stolen employment authorization documents.
Fee Requirements	There is typically a filing fee associated with this application; however, certain replacement situations may not require a fee.
Filing Restrictions	Applicants must be physically present in the United States at the time of filing the form.
Language Requirement	The applicant must be able to understand the questions and instructions on the form, or must use an interpreter.
Additional Information Section	The form includes sections for other names used, mailing addresses, and additional background information.
Attorney Representation	If represented by an attorney, the applicant must indicate this and attach Form G-28.

Guidelines on Utilizing I 765

Completing the I-765 form is an important step in your application process. After submitting this form, you will await a decision from the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) regarding your employment authorization. Follow these instructions to ensure you accurately fill out the required sections and provide the necessary details.

Part 1: Reason for Applying - Select only one box to indicate the reason for your application. Choices include: renewal, initial permission, or replacement.
Part 2: Information About You - Fill out your full legal name, including your family name, given name, and middle name. If you have used any other names, contribute that information as well.
Provide your U.S. mailing address. If your mailing address differs from your physical address, indicate this and include your physical address in the specified sections.
Complete additional questions regarding your Alien Registration Number, USCIS Online Account Number, gender, marital status, and previous filings of the I-765 form.
If applicable, answer questions about your Social Security card status and provide your Social Security number, if known. Indicate whether you want the SSA to issue you a Social Security card.
List your father's and mother's names, as well as your country or countries of citizenship.
Provide your place and date of birth, then continue with details regarding your last arrival in the United States, including your immigration status.
Select the appropriate eligibility category based on the instructions provided. This could vary from student to dependent status. If applicable, provide additional details for categories including STEM OPT or those with pending asylum applications.
Part 3: Applicant's Statement and Signature - Indicate if you can read English or if you had an interpreter. Fill in your contact information and sign the application, noting the date.
Part 4: Interpreter's Information - If you used an interpreter, provide the interpreter’s contact information and signature.

What You Should Know About This Form

What is Form I-765 and why do I need it?

Form I-765 is the application for employment authorization. It allows individuals who are eligible to request the right to work in the United States. This form is crucial if you're looking to obtain your first Employment Authorization Document (EAD), renew an existing one, or replace a lost or stolen document. Ensuring you file this form correctly can significantly impact your ability to work legally in the U.S.

Who can apply using Form I-765?

Anyone seeking employment authorization in the U.S. can apply using Form I-765, as long as they meet specific eligibility categories. Examples include F-1 students seeking Optional Practical Training (OPT), asylum seekers, and certain family-based applicants. Always confirm your eligibility category, as it dictates the requirements for your application.

What information do I need to provide on the form?

The form requires personal details such as your full legal name, mailing address, and immigration status. You also need to include information about any previous applications for employment authorization and whether you've ever been issued a Social Security card. Collecting this information prior to filling out the form will help streamline the process.

How much does it cost to file Form I-765?

The filing fee for Form I-765 varies based on your eligibility category. Most applicants will need to pay a fee, but there are exemptions for specific situations such as those applying based on asylum status. Make sure to check the latest guidelines on the USCIS website for the most current fee information.

What happens after I submit my application?

Once you submit your application, USCIS will process it and send you a receipt notice. This will include a receipt number, which you can use to track the status of your application online. Typical processing times can vary, so stay vigilant and check regularly for updates.

Can I work while my application is being processed?

You cannot legally work in the U.S until you receive your Employment Authorization Document (EAD). If your previous authorization has expired and you have not yet received your new EAD, you must wait until your application is approved. This makes it important to submit your renewal application well before your current authorization ends.

What if I made a mistake on my application?

If you realize you made a mistake after sending your Form I-765, you should immediately contact USCIS to report the error. Depending on the nature of the mistake, they may allow you to correct it. However, if you've submitted the application and it hasn’t been reviewed yet, a new application might be necessary.

How long is my Employment Authorization Document valid?

Typically, an EAD is valid for one year, but this can depend on your specific eligibility category. It’s vital to keep track of the expiration date, as you’ll want to renew it before it expires to maintain your ability to work legally.

What should I do if my EAD is lost or stolen?

If your EAD is lost or stolen, you need to file a new Form I-765 to request a replacement. Along with the application, you will need to provide proof of the loss and pay the required filing fee. Acting quickly can help minimize the gap in your employment authorization.

Common mistakes

Filling out the I-765 form comes with its challenges, and many applicants make common mistakes. One frequent error involves skipping or omitting essential fields, particularly in the personal information section. Accurate and complete information, such as the full legal name and mailing address, is crucial. If any of these sections are left blank, it can cause delays in processing or even result in rejection of the application.

Another mistake occurs when individuals fail to select the correct reason for applying. The form offers specific options, including initial permission or renewal of existing employment authorization. Selecting the wrong checkbox can lead to confusion about the applicant's intentions, which may further complicate the approval process.

Providing incorrect eligibility category information is also a common error. Applicants must carefully reference the guidelines for their specific circumstances. A mismatch in eligibility categories can prevent the application from being processed correctly. It is essential to check and ensure that the information aligns with the guidelines provided in the form instructions.

Lastly, some applicants neglect to review the form before submission. Failing to check for errors, such as typographical mistakes or incorrect numbers, can be detrimental. It is advisable to carefully proofread the form and verify all details to ensure accuracy. A thorough review can help avoid unnecessary delays or issues with the application.

Documents used along the form

The Form I-765 is essential for individuals seeking employment authorization in the United States. However, when completing this process, there are several other documents that may be required or beneficial to include. Below is a list of six additional forms and documents often used in conjunction with the I-765 form.

Form I-94: This form serves as the Arrival-Departure Record, providing proof of the individual's most recent entry into the United States. It contains important information about the immigration status at the time of entry.
Employment Authorization Document (EAD): If the individual is applying for a renewal or replacement of an EAD, it is necessary to include a copy of the previous card. This document confirms that the person has already been authorized to work.
Form G-28: This is the Notice of Entry of Appearance as Attorney or Accredited Representative. If an attorney or representative is filing on behalf of the individual, this form must accompany the I-765 to authorize them to act in this capacity.
Form I-797: This is a Notice of Action, which can be used to demonstrate previous approval of immigration-related requests. It may be particularly useful if applying under certain eligibility categories that require evidence of prior petitions.
Social Security card or application: If the applicant wishes to obtain a Social Security card along with the employment authorization, it is necessary to include any related documents or applications, as these can assist with identity verification.
Copy of passport: A clear photocopy of the passport is often needed to establish identity and any pertinent immigration history. This ensures consistency and accuracy in the applicant's information.

Including these additional forms and documents can significantly support the application process for employment authorization. Each piece of information aids in creating a complete picture for the reviewing officials at USCIS, promoting a smoother evaluation of the application.

Similar forms

Form I-130: Just like the I-765, the I-130 form is essential in the immigration process. It’s used to establish a qualifying relationship with a family member who wishes to immigrate. Both forms require detailed personal information and documentation, and they play crucial roles in obtaining legal status in the U.S.
Form I-131: The I-131 is used to apply for a travel document, such as advance parole, which allows individuals to re-enter the U.S. after traveling abroad. Similar to the I-765, it involves collecting personal data and sometimes requires an explanation of the applicant’s immigration status and intentions.
Form I-140: This form is used for petitioning for an immigrant worker. Similar to I-765, the I-140 necessitates detailed information about the applicant’s background. Both forms are crucial for employment-related immigration processes, ensuring eligibility is established before further steps can be taken.
Form N-400: The N-400 is the application for naturalization. Although it serves a different purpose, it is also aimed at obtaining legal status in the U.S. Both forms require in-depth personal information, including residency history and employment details, which are vital to assess eligibility for the immigration benefits being sought.

Dos and Don'ts

When filling out the I-765 form, consider the following guidelines to ensure your application is complete and correct.

Do answer all questions fully and accurately. Provide N/A for questions that do not apply to you.
Do type or print using black ink to ensure legibility.
Don't leave any required fields blank. USCIS may deny your application if essential information is missing.
Don't forget to sign and date the application. An unsigned form will be returned and delay processing.

Misconceptions

When it comes to the I-765 Form, which is essential for applying for employment authorization in the United States, there are several common misconceptions that can lead to confusion and potential mistakes in the application process. Here are seven of those misconceptions explained:

Misconception 1: Everyone can use the I-765 Form to work in the U.S.

Not everyone can use this form to obtain work authorization. The I-765 is specifically designed for individuals who fall under certain eligibility categories. Understanding whether you qualify is crucial before filing.

Misconception 2: You do not need to submit any records with your application.

In reality, many applicants are required to submit supporting documentation along with their I-765 Form. This might include previous employment authorization documents or evidence supporting your eligibility category.

Misconception 3: The I-765 Form can be submitted without a fee.

While some applicants qualify for a fee waiver, many must pay a fee when submitting the form. It's essential to check the instructions carefully to determine if a fee applies to your case.

Misconception 4: Filing the I-765 guarantees immediate work authorization.

Filing the form does not automatically grant the right to work in the U.S. Processing times can vary, and applicants must wait for their authorization to be approved before they can start working.

Misconception 5: You should only complete the form if you have lost your employment authorization document.

The I-765 is not just for replacements. It can also be used for renewing your authorization or applying for the first time. Understanding your specific situation is key to filing the correct application.

Misconception 6: Only lawyers can help you fill out the I-765.

While legal professionals can provide valuable support, many individuals successfully complete the I-765 on their own. Resources are available to guide applicants through the process, ensuring they can submit accurate information.

Misconception 7: You can disregard instructions in the form.

Every instruction included in the I-765 Form is critical for a successful application. Ignoring these instructions can lead to delays or denials, so it is essential to follow them closely.

Understanding these misconceptions can help applicants navigate the I-765 Form more effectively, ultimately leading to a smoother application process and increased chances of receiving employment authorization.

Key takeaways

Filling out the I-765 form can be a crucial step for individuals seeking employment authorization in the United States. Here are some key takeaways to keep in mind when filling out and using this form:

Type or Print Clearly: Use black ink and make sure to answer all questions thoroughly. If a question does not apply to you, provide “N/A.”
Correct Category Selection: Choose only one box indicating the reason for applying—initial, renewal, or replacement of the employment authorization document.
Importance of Previous Documentation: If renewing, attach a copy of your previous employment authorization document. This is vital for processing.
Update Personal Information: Ensure that your full legal name and any other names you may have used are documented accurately.
Check Mailing Addresses: Provide your current U.S. mailing address. If it differs from your physical address, you must complete both sections.
Supply Accurate Immigration Details: Fill in your most recent immigration status and details from your last arrival in the United States.
Eligibility Category: Familiarize yourself with the eligibility categories for filing the form, and make sure to enter the correct code.
Social Security Considerations: If you have never received a Social Security number, be sure to indicate that clearly, as it affects your application.
Informed Consent for Disclosure: If you want the Social Security Administration to issue you a card, provide the necessary consent.
Review Before Submission: Carefully review your application before submitting it, as incomplete or incorrect information may lead to delays or denials.

By keeping these points in mind, individuals can navigate the I-765 form process more effectively, ensuring a smoother experience in obtaining employment authorization.

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