To obtain a work permit in the US, applicants must typically submit Form I-765, a copy of their approval notice or immigration status documentation, and proof of identity such as a passport or national ID. Supporting documents may include a recent passport-style photo, evidence of eligibility category, and any prior work permits if applicable. Ensuring all required documents are accurately completed and submitted helps streamline the application process for a work permit.
What Documents Are Needed for a Work Permit in the US?
| Number | Name | Description |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | EAD (Employment Authorization Document) | The Employment Authorization Document (EAD) application for a U.S. work permit requires Form I-765, a copy of your current immigration status, proof of identity such as a passport, and recent passport-style photos. Supporting documents vary by eligibility category but generally include evidence of your underlying immigration status and, if applicable, a copy of your previous EAD. |
| 2 | I-765 Form (Application for Employment Authorization) | To apply for a work permit in the US, applicants must submit Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization, along with supporting documents such as a copy of their I-94 arrival/departure record, a valid passport, and evidence of their current immigration status. Proof of eligibility category and recent passport-sized photos are also required to ensure processing of the Employment Authorization Document (EAD). |
| 3 | Form I-94 (Arrival/Departure Record) | Form I-94 (Arrival/Departure Record) is a crucial document for obtaining a US work permit, serving as official proof of lawful entry and authorized duration of stay in the United States. Employers and immigration officials rely on the Form I-94 to verify an applicant's current immigration status and eligibility for work authorization. |
| 4 | STEM OPT Extension Documentation | Applicants seeking a STEM OPT extension must submit Form I-765, a copy of their current EAD, a valid Form I-20 endorsed by their DSO within the last 60 days, and a completed Form I-983 training plan signed by both the student and employer. Additional documents include proof of degree in a STEM field, passport-style photos, and evidence of maintaining F-1 status, ensuring compliance with USCIS requirements for work authorization. |
| 5 | DACA Supporting Evidence | Applicants seeking a US work permit under DACA must provide proof of continuous residence since June 15, 2007, such as school records, rent receipts, or employment verification letters. Supporting evidence also includes identity documents like a passport or birth certificate, and proof of immigration status or removal proceedings documentation if applicable. |
| 6 | TPS (Temporary Protected Status) Work Permit Papers | To apply for a TPS work permit in the US, applicants must submit Form I-765 (Application for Employment Authorization), a copy of their TPS approval notice (Form I-797), proof of identity such as a valid passport or government-issued ID, and evidence of continuous residence and physical presence in the United States. Supporting documents may include Form I-821 (Application for Temporary Protected Status), two passport-sized photos, and any previous employment authorization documents. |
| 7 | H-1B Approval Notice (I-797) | The H-1B Approval Notice (Form I-797) is a crucial document required for obtaining a U.S. work permit, serving as official evidence of petition approval by the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). This notice must be presented alongside the applicant's valid passport, labor condition application (LCA), and completed Form I-129 to secure the H-1B visa and authorize employment in the United States. |
| 8 | LCA (Labor Condition Application) | The Labor Condition Application (LCA) is a mandatory document filed with the U.S. Department of Labor to certify that hiring a foreign worker will not negatively affect the wages or working conditions of U.S. employees. This form must be approved prior to submitting the work permit application, specifically for H-1B and other specialty occupation visas, ensuring compliance with labor regulations. |
| 9 | USCIS Digital Uploads/Online Filing Receipts | USCIS requires applicants for a US work permit to submit digital uploads of Form I-765, supporting identity documents, and proof of eligibility via the online filing system. Online filing receipts provide confirmation of application submission and must be retained for tracking and future correspondence with USCIS. |
| 10 | Proof of Advance Parole Document | Proof of an Advance Parole document is essential for certain work permit applications in the US, demonstrating lawful permission to re-enter the country after temporary foreign travel. Applicants must submit a valid Advance Parole document alongside Form I-765 and supporting evidence to ensure eligibility for employment authorization. |
Overview of Work Permit Documentation in the US
Obtaining a work permit in the US requires submitting specific documentation to the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). The core documents typically include Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization, accompanied by proof of identity and eligibility.
Applicants must provide a valid passport, visa, or other immigration status documents, along with supporting evidence such as a job offer letter or enrollment in an eligible program. Proof of previous work authorization or immigration status may also be necessary to complete the application process.
Types of Work Permits Available
Work permits in the US require specific documents depending on the type of employment authorization being sought. Commonly requested documents include a completed application form, proof of identity, and evidence of eligibility for employment.
Different types of work permits include the Employment Authorization Document (EAD) for certain visa holders, such as asylum seekers and students with Optional Practical Training (OPT). Temporary work visas like H-1B, L-1, and O-1 each have unique documentation requirements. Proof of job offer, employer sponsorship, and valid immigration status are crucial to obtaining these permits.
Eligibility Criteria for US Work Permits
To obtain a work permit in the US, applicants must meet specific eligibility criteria set by the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). Required documents typically include a valid passport, proof of employment or job offer, and Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization. Supporting evidence such as visa status, educational credentials, and a completed medical examination may also be necessary depending on the applicant's visa category.
Essential Documents Needed for Application
When applying for a work permit in the US, essential documents include a valid passport and your completed Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization. You must also provide two recent passport-sized photos that meet USCIS specifications.
Supporting evidence such as your current visa status or Form I-94, Arrival/Departure Record, is required to verify your eligibility. Proof of your employment or job offer, along with any required fee payment, completes the core application package.
Step-by-Step Work Permit Application Process
| Step | Description | Required Documents |
|---|---|---|
| 1. Determine Eligibility | Verify if you qualify for a work permit based on your immigration status or visa category. | Proof of status (e.g., visa, I-94 form) |
| 2. Complete Form I-765 | Fill out the Application for Employment Authorization (Form I-765) accurately online or on paper. | Completed Form I-765 |
| 3. Prepare Supporting Documents | Gather evidence that supports your eligibility for the work permit. |
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| 4. Pay Application Fee | Submit the appropriate filing fee or request a fee waiver if eligible. | Payment receipt or fee waiver request |
| 5. Submit the Application | Send the completed Form I-765 and all supporting documents to the designated USCIS address. | Form I-765 package with all documents and payment |
| 6. Attend Biometrics Appointment | Receive a notice for fingerprinting and attend the scheduled appointment. | Appointment notice, valid photo ID |
| 7. Await USCIS Decision | USCIS reviews the application and issues the Employment Authorization Document (EAD) if approved. | Receipt notice from USCIS |
Supporting Evidence for Work Permit Applications
Supporting evidence is crucial for a successful work permit application in the US. Proper documentation verifies eligibility and strengthens the applicant's case.
- Proof of Identity - Valid passport or national ID confirms the applicant's identity and citizenship.
- Employment Offer Letter - A detailed letter from the US employer outlining the job role, salary, and terms supports the application.
- Immigration Status Documents - Current visa or status documents demonstrate legal presence and eligibility to apply.
Submitting accurate and complete supporting documents expedites the processing of a US work permit application.
Required Forms and Filing Locations
Applying for a work permit in the US requires specific forms and documents to be submitted accurately. Understanding the required forms and where to file them streamlines the application process.
- Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization - This is the primary form you must complete to request a work permit from the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).
- Supporting Identification Documents - Include a copy of your passport, visa, or other proof of your current immigration status to verify your eligibility.
- Filing Locations - USCIS service centers handle submissions, with addresses varying based on your residence; check the USCIS website for the correct mailing address.
Document Verification and Approval Procedures
What documents are needed for a work permit in the US? The primary documents include a valid passport, Form I-765 (Application for Employment Authorization), and proof of eligibility such as an approved visa or asylum status. Accurate verification of these documents by USCIS ensures compliance with immigration laws and eligibility for employment authorization.
How does the document verification process work for US work permits? USCIS carefully reviews the authenticity and completeness of all submitted documents, including identity proofs and immigration status evidence. This step is crucial to prevent fraud and confirm that applicants meet all regulatory requirements before approval.
What are the approval procedures once documents are verified for a US work permit? After document verification, USCIS processes the application, which may include biometric screening and background checks. Applicants receive an Employment Authorization Document (EAD) upon approval, granting legal work permission in the US.
Common Reasons for Work Permit Denial
To apply for a work permit in the US, you typically need a completed Form I-765, a copy of your current immigration status document, and proof of eligibility such as an approved Form I-94 or a pending visa application. Common reasons for work permit denial include incomplete applications, lack of supporting evidence, or failure to maintain valid immigration status. Understanding these requirements helps ensure your application is complete and reduces the risk of denial.
What Documents Are Needed for a Work Permit in the US? Infographic
