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USCIS Simplifies Refugee Work Permit Process


USCIS is making it easier for refugees in the U.S. to get 📄 work permits/authorization. Instead of waiting months, they’ll now typically get it within about 🕓 30 days. This change applies to refugees who arrived in the U.S. on or after December 10, 2023.

Before, refugees had the right to work but had to go through a slow process to get a work permit (EAD). Now, it’s faster and simpler. Refugees won’t even need to apply for the EAD anymore. USCIS’s streamlined process for refugee work authorization ensures quicker access to employment opportunities.

USCIS will automatically start the process for them once they arrive in the U.S.

The new system eliminates the need for refugees to apply for work permits individually, simplifying the process.

When approved, refugees should receive their EAD in one to two weeks by mail. It might take longer depending on mail delivery times, so allow up to 30 days before asking about it. USCIS is initiating the work authorization process upon arrival. Now, refugees can expect to receive their permits within one to two weeks.

USCIS will also send the necessary information to the Social Security Administration. This gets refugees their Social Security number and card.

This change aims to help refugees settle into the U.S. faster by giving them the documents they need sooner. It started on December 10, 2023, after a successful test period.

This new process doesn’t apply to refugees who come to the U.S. through family sponsorship or those renewing their work permits. They’ll still need to apply using Form I-765.

For refugees eager to begin their employment journey in the United States, understanding the nuances of refugee work authorization is crucial. By staying informed about USCIS’s latest updates and policies regarding work permits, refugees can navigate the process with confidence and embark on a path towards a brighter future.

Contact us today to embark on your journey to a brighter future in the United States.