The Imperative of Work Authorization

Beyond crossing borders, gaining work authorization is paramount for immigrants. Enabling lawful employment, this authorization allows individuals to support themselves and their families within the U.S. Immigrants keen on working here must secure an Employment Authorization Document (EAD), often referred to as a work permit. Issued by the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), the work permit is your gateway to employment within the United States.

Note: Specific visa categories, such as H-1B for specialty occupations, come with built-in work permits. This eliminates the need for a separate Employment Authorization Document (EAD).

Diverse Eligibility for Work Permits

Work permits extend to various immigrant situations, catering to a broad spectrum of circumstances where individuals may be eligible to work in the U.S. Some notable examples include:

• Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA): Qualifying individuals may obtain a work permit through the DACA program.
• Deportation Proceedings: Immigrants facing deportation proceedings can apply for a work permit.
• Fiancé Visa: Fiancé visa holders must secure a work permit to gain employment.
• Victims of Violence: Those who qualify for U Visa or VAWA may attain a work permit.
• Green Card Applicants: Lawful permanent residents (green card holders) can work without a separate work permit. However, a work permit can be sought during the green card waiting period.

Navigating the Work Permit Application Process

Planning to apply for an immigration work permit in Bronx? A well-structured approach is crucial. Here’s a concise overview of the steps:

1. Obtain Form I-765: Start by acquiring Form I-765 from the USCIS website.
2. Select Your Category: Determine your application category based on your immigration status. Seek guidance from a Maxidova immigration attorney if unsure.
3. Provide Supporting Documentation: Essential for any application, include proof of identity and immigration status.
4. Submit Form I-765 to USCIS: Lodge your application online or via mail after completing the form and attaching supporting documents.
5. Provide Biometric Information: Biometrics like fingerprints and photographs might be requested post-application.

Given the complexity of this process, professional legal assistance is highly recommended. Maxidova immigration attorneys possess a wealth of experience to help you secure the work permit you need.

Mitigating Common Work Permit Application Pitfalls

Work permit applications can falter due to various reasons. Avoid these common pitfalls to increase your chances of success:

• Incomplete Application: USCIS may reject applications lacking essential information or documentation.
• Lack of Eligibility: Not all immigrants qualify for a work permit. Ensure your immigration status aligns with USCIS criteria.
• Criminal Record: Criminal records can impact your application. Seek guidance from an experienced Maxidova immigration lawyer if you face this situation.
• History of Immigration Violations: Past immigration violations can lead to application denials.
• Failure to Timely Renew: Applying for renewal well in advance of the permit’s expiration is crucial.