An updated process for Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization, for eligible refugees was introduced by U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). The new approach creates a more efficient process to provide an Employment Authorization Document (EADs) once admitted to the United States. The new process applies to those admitted to the U.S. as refugees on or after December 10, 2023.

Per U.S. law, admitted refugees are offered legal authorization to work upon arrival to the U.S. However, the EAD has historically been complex, relying on a paper-based process. The updated process is fully automated. Refugees no longer need to apply for an EAD under the updated process. This allows for a more efficient adjudication of Form I-765 and faster receipt of the EAD once approved.

A digitally created Form I-765 will be created by USCIS for each arriving refugee. Upon being admitted to the U.S., USCIS will start the adjudication process for Form I-765. Once approved, refugee recipients will receive the Employment Authorization Document within a two-week period, sent via U.S. Postal Service Priority Mail to the refugee address of record. The timing of EAD receipt may vary, depending on delivery times.

Further, USCIS will also provide the Social Security Administration (SSA) with the information required to assign a number to the refugee. The SSA will mail the refugee their Social Security card.

This process it not available for following-to join refugees admitted to the U.S. through a Form I-730, Refugee/Asylee Relative Petition. Replacement and renewal EADs for refugees will continue to follow the current process using Form I-765.

As always, ILBSG works with our clients in their specific situations to ensure they get the right advice for their specific situation. If you have any U.S. immigration related questions, contact us.

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