I-765 Instructions TOC

I765-025-INS-TOC-REV-30Day-03302020.docx

Application for Employment Authorization

I-765 Instructions TOC

OMB: 1615-0040

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TABLE OF CHANGES – INSTRUCTIONS

Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization

OMB Number: 1615-0040

03/30/2020

Reason for Revision: Comprehensive Revision.

Project Phase: 30-Day FRN.

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Edition Date 12/26/2019

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Page 1,

What Is the Purpose of Form I-765?

[Page 1]

What Is the Purpose of Form I-765?

Certain foreign nationals who are in the United States may file Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization, to request employment authorization and an Employment Authorization Document (EAD). Other foreign nationals whose immigration status authorizes them to work in the United States without restrictions may also use Form I-765 to apply to U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) for an EAD that shows such authorization. Review the Who May File Form I-765 section of these Instructions to determine whether you should use Form I-765.

Foreign nationals may also apply for a Social Security number and card on Form I-765 following the guidelines in the Specific Instructions section of these Instructions, Part 2. Information About You, Item Numbers 13.a. - 17.b.

If you are a lawful permanent resident, a conditional permanent resident, or a nonimmigrant only authorized for employment with a specific employer under 8 CFR 274a.12(b), do not use Form I-765.

Definitions

Employment Authorization Document (EAD): The EAD is the card (also known as Form I-688A, Form I-688B, Form I-766, or any successor document) issued as evidence that the holder is authorized to work in the United States.

Initial EAD: An EAD issued to an eligible applicant for the first time under a specific eligibility category.

Renewal EAD: An EAD issued to an eligible applicant after the expiration of a previous EAD issued under the same category.

Replacement EAD: An EAD issued to an eligible applicant when the previously issued EAD was lost, stolen, damaged, or contains errors, such as a misspelled name.

NOTE: For more information regarding employment authorization documents, visit www.uscis.gov/greencard/employment-authorization-document.

[Page 1]

What Is the Purpose of Form I-765?

Foreign nationals may also apply for a Social Security number and card on Form I-765 following the guidelines in the Specific Instructions section of these Instructions, Part 4. Information About You, Item Numbers 1 - 5.

If you are a lawful permanent resident, a conditional permanent resident, or a nonimmigrant only authorized for employment with a specific employer under 8 CFR 274a.12(b), do not use Form I-765.

Definitions

Employment Authorization Document (EAD): The EAD is the card (Form I-766, or any successor document) issued as evidence that the holder is authorized to work in the United States.

Initial EAD: An EAD issued to an eligible applicant for the first time under a specific eligibility category.

Renewal EAD: An EAD issued to an eligible applicant after the expiration of a previous EAD issued under the same category.

Replacement EAD: An EAD issued to an eligible applicant when the previously issued EAD was lost, stolen, damaged, or contains errors, such as a misspelled name.

NOTE: For more information regarding employment authorization documents, visit www.uscis.gov/greencard/employment-authorization-document.

Pages 1-14,

Who May File Form I-765?

[Page 1]

Who May File Form I-765?

You may file Form I-765 if you fall within one of the eligibility categories below. For some categories, employment authorization is granted with your underlying immigration status (called “incident to status” employment authorization). For example, asylees and refugees have employment authorization as soon as they obtain such status. In these cases, your EAD is issued upon approval of your Form I-765, and the EAD is evidence of your employment authorization. For other categories such as parolees or individuals with deferred action, USCIS must first approve your Form I-765 before you are eligible to accept employment in the United States. Once your Form I-765 is approved, USCIS will issue your EAD. You must type or print your eligibility category in Part 2., Item Number 27., on Form I-765. Enter only one category number on the application. For example, if you are a refugee applying for an EAD, type or print “(a)(3)” in Item Number 27.

Please note that a person with a pending application for an immigration benefit or request might have a different category number than the person who was already granted the benefit or request. For example certain pending asylum applicants are category “(c)(8),” but a person already granted asylum is category “(a)(5).”

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Asylee/Refugee Categories (and their Spouses and Children)

1. Refugee--(a)(3). If an initial Form I-765 was not already prepared for you before your arrival as a refugee in the United States, or if you are requesting to renew your EAD, file Form I-765 with a copy of one of the following: your stamped Form I-94, Arrival-Departure Record; your Final Notice of Eligibility for Resettlement (approval letter); or your Form I-797 Notice approving your derivative refugee status based on a Form I-730, Refugee/Asylee Relative Petition (if approved while in the United States).

NOTE: If you were admitted as a refugee and have applied under the Immigration and Nationality Act (INA) section 209 to adjust to lawful permanent resident status using Form I-485, Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status, file Form I-765 under category (a)(3) as a refugee. Do not file Form I-765 under eligibility category (c)(9) as an INA section 245 adjustment applicant.

2. Paroled as a Refugee--(a)(4). File Form I-765 with a copy of your Form I-94, passport, or travel document. Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands (CNMI), and other humanitarian or significant public benefit parolees (such as Cuban Family and Haitian Family Reunification Parole programs), should file under the category (c)(11), not as a refugee under (a)(4).

3. Asylee (Granted Asylum)--(a)(5). File Form I-765 with a copy of one of the following: your stamped Form I-94 indicating asylee status; a USCIS Asylum approval letter; an order granting asylum signed by an Executive Office for Immigration Review (EOIR) immigration judge (IJ); or a Form I-797 Notice approving your derivative asylee status based on a Form I-730 (if approved while in the United States).

OTE: If you are an asylee and have applied under INA section 209 to adjust to lawful permanent resident status using Form I-485, file Form I-765 under category (a)(5) as an asylee. Do not file Form I-765 under eligibility category (c)(9) as an INA section 245 adjustment applicant.

4. Granted Withholding of Deportation or Removal--(a)(10). File Form I-765 with a copy of the EOIR IJ’s signed order granting withholding of deportation or removal.

5. Pending Asylum and Withholding of Removal Applicants and Applicants for Pending Asylum under the ABC Settlement Agreement--(c)(8). If you have a pending Form I-589, Application for Asylum and for Withholding of Removal, refer to Special Filing Instructions for Those With Pending Asylum Applications--(c)(8) in the Required Documentation section of these Instructions.

Nationality Categories

1. Citizen of Micronesia, the Marshall Islands, or Palau--(a)(8). File Form I-765 with evidence you were admitted to the United States as a citizen of the Federated States of Micronesia (CFA/FSM), the Marshall Islands (CFA/MIS), or Palau under agreements between the United States and the former trust territories.

2. Deferred Enforced Departure (DED)--(a)(11). File Form I-765 with evidence of your identity and nationality. If you are without nationality, submit evidence of your residence in the last country in which you habitually resided. You should also state your basis for claiming that you are covered by DED and provide evidence (if available) for your claim.

3. Temporary Protected Status (TPS)--(a)(12) and (c)(19). File Form I-765 with your Form I-821, Application for Temporary Protected Status, or evidence that we accepted or approved your initial Form I-821. Include evidence of your nationality and identity as required by the Form I-821 Instructions. If an EOIR IJ or the Board of Immigration Appeals (BIA) granted TPS, and you are requesting your first EAD or are re-registering for the first time, you must submit a copy of the EOIR IJ or BIA order that granted TPS with your Form I-765 (such as a copy of your Form I-821 that the EOIR IJ or BIA approved). You must also follow the instructions for filing your application as described in the most recent TPS Federal Register notice regarding a TPS designation, re-designation, or extension for your country. Please check the USCIS website at www.uscis.gov/tps for procedures to register or re-register for TPS, including obtaining an EAD, if your country has been designated for TPS.

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If your non-expired TPS EAD is lost, stolen, or damaged, file Form I-765 with required fees to request a replacement. Include a copy of your approval notice for TPS (if you have been approved) or a copy of your previous Form I-797 Notice for Form I-821 if your TPS application is still pending.

A. Category (a)(12) EAD: We may issue you a category (a)(12) EAD if your TPS application was approved, you requested an EAD, and you were not previously issued a category (c)(19) EAD that runs through the current TPS designation, re-designation, or extension period for your country.

Re-registration for TPS: File your Form I-765, Form I-821, and a letter indicating that this application is for TPS re-registration. Include a copy (front and back) of your last available TPS document (for example, an EAD, Form I-94, passport, or travel document, or a Form I-797 Notice).

NOTE: To re-register for TPS, you must file Form I-821; however, you do not need to file Form I-765 if you do not want an EAD.

B. Category (c)(19) EAD: A category (c)(19) EAD is a temporary benefit under TPS under 8 CFR Part 244. We may issue you a category (c)(19) EAD if you have a pending Form I-821, and you are prima facie eligible for TPS.

4. Nicaraguan Adjustment and Central American Relief Act (NACARA) Section 203 Applicants Who Are Eligible to Apply for NACARA Relief With USCIS--(c)(10). See the Instructions to Form I-881, Application for Suspension of Deportation or Special Rule Cancellation of Removal (Pursuant to Section 203 of Public Law 105-100 (NACARA)), to determine if you are eligible to apply for NACARA 203 relief.

If you are eligible to apply for NACARA 203 relief with USCIS, you may file Form I-765 together with your Form I-881. See our website at www.uscis.gov/I-881 for the most current information on where to file Form I-881. If you are eligible to file Form I-881 with EOIR, or if you have already filed Form I-881 with USCIS or EOIR, see the Where to File section of these Instructions.

If you are filing for an EAD related to your NACARA application, you may be eligible for a fee waiver under 8 CFR 103.7(c)(3)(xi).

5. Dependent of TECRO E-1 Nonimmigrant--(c)(2). File Form I-765 with the required certification from the American Institute in Taiwan if you are the spouse or unmarried dependent son or daughter of an E-1 employee of the Taipei Economic and Cultural Representative Office.

Foreign Students Categories

1. F-1 Student Seeking Optional Practical Training (OPT) in a Position Directly Related to Major Area of Study

NOTE: If you are an F-1 student filing for initial or extension of OPT, please note that your OPT and your employment authorization will be automatically terminated if you change educational program levels or transfer to another school. Working in the United States without authorization may result in your removal from the United States or denial of re-entry. Consult your Designated School Official (DSO) for additional details.

A. Pre-Completion OPT--(c)(3)(A). File Form I-765 up to 90 days before being enrolled for one full academic year, provided that the period of employment will not start before you have completed one full academic year. The one full academic year need not necessarily have been completed while you were in F-1 status; if you completed the one-year requirement while in another valid nonimmigrant status and you are now in valid F-1 status, you are eligible to apply for OPT. Include evidence of having been lawfully enrolled on a full-time basis for one full academic year at a college, university, conservatory, or seminary approved by the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP) for attendance by F-1 foreign students. Also, include all previously used Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS) numbers and evidence of any previously authorized curricular practical training (CPT) or OPT and academic level at which each was authorized. You must include a Certificate of Eligibility of Nonimmigrant (F-1) Student Status (Form I-20) endorsed by the DSO before filing Form I-765.

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B. Post-Completion OPT--(c)(3)(B). File Form I-765 up to 90 days before, but no later than 60 days after, your program end date. Use Part 6. Additional Information to provide all previously used SEVIS numbers and evidence of any previously authorized CPT or OPT and the academic level at which it was authorized.

NOTE: You must file your Form I-765 within 30 days of the date that your DSO enters the recommendation for OPT into your SEVIS record. If you fail to do so, we will deny your OPT request.

C. 24-Month Extension for STEM Students (Students With a Degree in Science, Technology, Engineering, or Mathematics)--(c)(3)(C). File Form I-765 up to 90 days before the expiration of your current OPT, if you are requesting a 24-month STEM extension. Include evidence the degree that is the basis for the STEM OPT extension is in one of the degree programs currently listed on the STEM Designated Degree Program List. Additionally, submit the employer’s name as listed in E-Verify, along with the E-Verify Company Identification Number, or a valid E-Verify Client Company Identification Number for the employer with whom you are seeking the 24-month STEM OPT extension. You must provide this information in Part 2., Item Numbers 28.a. - 28.c., of Form I-765. You must include a copy of the Form I-20 endorsed by the DSO within 60 days before filing Form I-765.

NOTE: If you are applying for a STEM OPT extension based on a previously earned STEM degree, you must also include a copy of your prior STEM degree and evidence that the institution is currently accredited by the U.S. Department of Education and certified by the SEVP.

D. F-1 Student Offered Off-Campus Employment Under the Sponsorship of a Qualifying International Organization--(c)(3)(ii). File Form I-765 with the international organization’s letter of certification that the proposed employment is within the scope of its sponsorship and a copy of the Form I-20 with the employment page completed by the DSO certifying eligibility for employment.

E. F-1 Student Seeking Off-Campus Employment Due to Severe Economic Hardship--(c)(3)(iii). File Form I-765 with a copy of the Form I-20 that includes the employment page completed by the DSO certifying eligibility for off-campus employment due to severe economic hardship caused by unforeseen circumstances beyond your control. Include evidence that:

(1) You have been in F-1 status for one full academic year;

(2) You are in good standing as a student;

(3) You are carrying a full course of study;

(4) Acceptance of employment will not interfere with your carrying a full course of study;

(5) The employment is necessary to avoid severe economic hardship due to unforeseen circumstances beyond your control; and

(6) On-campus employment is unavailable or is not sufficient to meet the needs that have arisen due to the unforeseen circumstances.

F. J-2 Spouse or Minor Child of an Exchange Visitor--(c)(5). File Form I-765 with a copy of Form DS-2019, evidence the J-1 principal foreign national is currently maintaining status, and evidence any income from this employment authorization will not be used to support the J-1 principal foreign national. Also, provide evidence you are currently maintaining status and include evidence of all previously authorized periods of J-2 employment.

G. M-1 Student Seeking Post-Completion OPT After Completing Studies--(c)(6). File Form I-765 with a copy of the Form I-20 endorsed by the DSO certifying eligibility for employment together with Form I-539, Application to Change/Extend Nonimmigrant Status, if applicable, completed according to the Form I-539 Instructions. We must receive the completed forms before, but not more than 90 days before, your program end date. If applicable, your Form I-539 must request an extension of stay that covers the requested period of post-completion OPT and a 30-day departure period.

NOTE: You may request one month of OPT for every four months of full-time study you have completed as an M-1 student.

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Categories for Eligible Dependents of Employees of Diplomatic Missions, International Organizations, or NATO

1. Dependent of A-1 or A-2 Foreign Government Officials--(c)(1). Submit Form I-765 with Form I-566, Interagency Record of Request-A, G, or NATO Dependent Employment Authorization or Change/Adjustment to/from A, G, or NATO Status, Dependent Employment Authorization, through your diplomatic mission to the Department of State (DOS). DOS will forward all favorably endorsed applications directly to USCIS for adjudication.

2. Dependent of G-1, G-3, or G-4 Nonimmigrant--(c)(4). Submit Form I-765 together with Form I-566 through your international organization to DOS. The United Nations (UN) and UN missions located in New York City should submit such applications to the U.S. Mission to the UN (USUN). DOS or USUN will forward all favorably endorsed applications directly to USCIS for adjudication.

3. Dependent of NATO-1 Through NATO-6--(c)(7). If you are a dependent of a North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) nonimmigrant who is stationed at Supreme Allied Command Transformation (SACT), NATO/HQ, submit Form I-765 with Form I-566 to:

USLO to NATO/HQ SACT

7857 Blandy Road, Suite 200

Norfolk, VA 23551-2491

If you are a dependent of a NATO nonimmigrant who is stationed outside of NATO/HQ SACT, submit Form I-765 with Form I-566 to the Defense Attaché’s Office at the embassy of the NATO member that employs the foreign national. For more details on NATO member embassy contacts and on documents required, visit the DOS website www.state.gov/ofm under the topic “Dependent Work Authorization.”

If you have questions regarding the process or document requirements, email [email protected].

Employment-Based Nonimmigrant Categories

1. B-1 Nonimmigrant Who Is the Personal or Domestic Servant of a Nonimmigrant Employer--(c)(17)(i). File Form I-765 with:

A. Evidence of your lawful B nonimmigrant status (for example, your Form I-94, passport, or other travel document);

B. Evidence that your employer is a B, E, F, H, I, J, L, M, O, P, Q, or TN nonimmigrant;

C. Evidence you worked for the employer for at least one year before the employer entered the United States, or your employer regularly employs personal and domestic servants and has done so for a period of years before coming to the United States;

D. Evidence you have either worked for this employer as a personal or domestic servant for at least one year, or evidence you have at least one year of experience as a personal or domestic servant; and

E. Evidence establishing you have a residence abroad that you have no intention of abandoning.

2. B-1 Nonimmigrant Domestic Servant of a U.S. Citizen--(c)(17)(ii). File Form I-765 with:

A. Evidence of your lawful B nonimmigrant status (for example, your Form I-94, passport, or other travel document);

B. Evidence that your employer is a U.S. citizen;

C. Evidence that your employer has a permanent home abroad or is stationed outside the United States and is temporarily visiting the United States, OR evidence that your employer’s current assignment in the United States will not be longer than four years; and

D. Evidence that your employer has employed you as a domestic servant abroad for at least six months before your admission to the United States.

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3. B-1 Nonimmigrant Employed by a Foreign Airline--(c)(17)(iii). File Form I-765 with:

A. Evidence of your lawful B nonimmigrant status (for example, your Form I-94, passport, or other travel document); and

B. A letter from the airline fully describing your duties and stating your position would entitle you to E nonimmigrant status except for the fact that you are not a national of the same country as the airline, or because there is no treaty of commerce and navigation in effect between the United States and that country.

4. Spouse of an E-1 Treaty Trader, E-2 Treaty Investor, or E-3 Specialty Occupation Professional from Australia--(a)(17). File Form I-765 with:

A. Evidence of your lawful E nonimmigrant status (for example, your Form I-94, passport, or other travel document); and

B. Evidence of your spouse’s lawful E nonimmigrant status (for example, a copy of your spouse’s Form I-94, passport, or other travel document) and your marriage certificate.

NOTE: Other relatives or dependents of E nonimmigrants in E status are not eligible for employment authorization and cannot file under this category.

5. Spouse of an L-1 Intracompany Transferee--(a)(18). File Form I-765 with:

A. Evidence of your lawful L nonimmigrant status (for example, your Form I-94, passport, or other travel document); and

B. Evidence of your spouse’s lawful L nonimmigrant status (for example, a copy of your spouse’s Form I-94, passport, or other travel document) and your marriage certificate.

NOTE: Other relatives or dependents of L nonimmigrants in L status are not eligible for employment authorization and cannot file under this category.

6. Spouse of an E-2 Commonwealth of Northern Mariana Islands (CNMI) Investor--(c)(12). File Form I-765 with the required evidence listed under Special Filing Instructions for Spouses of E-2 CNMI Investors in the Required Documentation section of these Instructions.

NOTE: If you are the spouse of a principal E-2 CNMI investor who obtained status on the basis of a Foreign Retiree Investment Certification, you are not eligible for employment authorization and cannot file under this category.

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7. Spouse of an H-1B Nonimmigrant--(c)(26). File Form I-765 along with documentation of your current H-4 admission or extension of stay. You must also submit documentation establishing either your spouse is the beneficiary of an approved Form I-140, Immigrant Petition for Alien Worker, or your spouse received H-1B status based on the American Competitiveness in the Twenty-First Century Act (AC21) sections 106(a) and (b). For your convenience, you may file Form I-765 with Form I-539. However, we will not process your Form I-765 (except filing fees), until after we have adjudicated your Form I-539. You may also file Form I-765 at the same time as your Form I-539 and your H1-B spouse’s Form I-129, Petition for a Nonimmigrant Worker. Please see the USCIS website at www.uscis.gov/I-765 for the most current information on where to file this benefit request.

A. Proof of Your Status. Submit a copy of your current Form I-797 Notice for Form I-539, or Form I-94 showing your admission as an H-4 nonimmigrant or your most recent approved extension of stay; and

B. Proof of Relationship to the Principal H-1B. Submit a copy of your marriage certificate. If you cannot submit a copy of your current Form I-797 Notice, Form I-94, or marriage certificate, we will consider secondary evidence of your relationship.

C. Basis for Work Authorization. Acceptable documentation includes:

(1) Approved Form I-140. Submit evidence the H-1B principal is the beneficiary of an approved Form I-140. You may show this by submitting a copy of your spouse’s Form I-797 Notice for Form I-140; or

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(2) H-1B Principal Received AC21 106(a) and (b) Extension. Submit evidence that your spouse has been admitted or granted an extension of stay under AC21 sections 106(a) and (b). You may show this by submitting copies of your spouse’s passports, prior Form I-94s, and current and prior Form I-797 Notices for Form I-129. In addition, submit evidence to establish one of the following bases for the H-1B extension of stay.

(a) Based on Filing of a Permanent Labor Certification Application. Submit evidence your spouse is the beneficiary of a Permanent Labor Certification Application that was filed at least 365 days prior to the date the period of admission authorized under AC21 sections 106(a) and (b) took effect. You may show this by submitting a print out from the Department of Labor’s (DOL) website or other correspondence from DOL showing the status of your spouse’s Permanent Labor Certification Application. If DOL certified the Permanent Labor Certification, you must also submit a copy of Form I-797 Notice for Form I-140 establishing the Form I-140 was filed within 180 days of DOL certifying the Permanent Labor Certification; or

(b) Based on a Pending Form I-140. If the preference category sought for the principal H-1B spouse does not require a Permanent Labor Certification Application with DOL, submit evidence your spouse’s Form I-140 was filed at least 365 days prior to the date the period of admission authorized under AC21 sections 106(a) and (b) took effect. You may show this by submitting a copy of the Form I-797 Notice for Form I-140.

(c) Secondary Evidence. If you do not have the evidence listed in Items (a) or (b) above, you may ask us to consider secondary evidence in support of your application for employment authorization as an H-4 spouse. For example, in establishing the Basis for Employment Authorization as described in Items (1) and (2), you may submit the receipt number of your spouse’s most current Form I-129 extension of stay or Form I-140 approved on your spouse’s behalf.

Failure to provide the evidence listed above or secondary evidence may result in the delay or denial of your Form I-765. For additional information on secondary evidence, see Evidence in the General Instructions section of these Instructions.

8. Principal Beneficiary of an Approved Employment-Based Immigrant Petition Facing Compelling Circumstances--(c)(35). File Form I-765 with documents showing that you are eligible for an initial grant or a renewal of employment authorization under the (c)(35) eligibility category.

A. Initial Application: If this is your first application for compelling circumstances employment authorization under the (c)(35) eligibility category, and an immigrant visa number is not yet available to you, you may be eligible if:

(1) You have NOT filed Form I-485;

(2) You have a Form I-140 approved on your behalf;

(3) You are in the United States in a valid E-3, H-1B, H-1B1, O-1, or L-1 nonimmigrant status; and

(4) You face compelling circumstances.

See Item C. Supporting Evidence by Principal below for more information regarding what documents to submit with your application, including additional requirements where you have been convicted of certain crimes.

B. Renewal Application: If you already have employment authorization under the (c)(35) eligibility category, you may be eligible for renewal if:

(1) You have a Form I-140 approved on your behalf;

(2) You face compelling circumstances and an immigrant visa is not authorized for issuance based on your priority date according to the relevant Final Action Date in the Department of State Visa Bulletin in effect on the date the application for a renewal of employment authorization is filed; OR

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The difference between your priority date and the Final Action Date for your preference category and country of chargeability is one year or less according to the Department of State Visa Bulletin in effect on the date your renewal application is filed. This means that your priority date cannot be more than one year earlier or one year later than the Department of State cut-off date in the Visa Bulletin applicable to your preference category and country of chargeability in effect on the date your renewal application is filed. If this is the basis for your renewal application, you are not required to show compelling circumstances; AND

(3) You file your renewal application on Form I-765 with USCIS before your current employment authorization expires. You are not required to be in a valid nonimmigrant status when you file your renewal application.

C. Supporting Evidence by Principal

(1) Proof You Are in the United States in E-3, H-1B, H-1B1, O-1, or L-1 Nonimmigrant Status. For initial applications, submit a copy of your Arrival-Departure Record (Form I-94) showing your admission as an E-3, H-1B, H-1B1, O-1, or L-1 nonimmigrant, or a copy of your current Form I-797 Notice for Form I-129.

(2) Proof of Your Approved Form I-140. For initial and renewal applications, submit a copy of a Form I-797 Notice for Form I-140 showing the Immigrant Petition has been approved on your behalf.

(3) Evidence You Are Facing Compelling Circumstances While You Wait for Your Immigrant Visa to Become Available. For initial and, if applicable, renewal applications based on compelling circumstances, USCIS will review the documents you provide to determine, in its discretion, whether you have established compelling circumstances. USCIS makes this discretionary determination on a case-by-case basis according to the documents submitted and the totality of the record. You should submit any credible evidence you believe supports your claim of compelling circumstances.

(4) Secondary Evidence. If you do not have the evidence listed in Items (1) or (2) above, you may ask us to consider secondary evidence in support of your application for employment authorization. For additional information on secondary evidence, see Evidence in the General Instructions section of these Instructions.

(5) Proof of Arrests and Conviction. For initial and renewal applications, you must submit documentation of any arrests and/or convictions. If you were ever convicted of a felony or two or more misdemeanors, you cannot be granted employment authorization under this eligibility category. USCIS will make the determination as to whether your crimes fall into either of these categories. You must, however, provide information and any supporting documentation on all crimes which you were convicted of so USCIS can make an appropriate decision. Provide certified copies of all arrest reports, court dispositions, sentencing documents, and any other relevant documents.

NOTE: USCIS may, in its discretion, deny your application if you have been arrested and/or convicted of any crime.

D. Traffic Violations and Arrests

Do not select the “Yes” box for Part 2., Item Number 30., on the application or submit documentation if you only have had minor traffic violations. Minor traffic violations do NOT include violations that are alcohol- or drug-related. If you were ARRESTED for any traffic offense, select the “Yes” box for Item Number 30. on the application and provide arrest and disposition documentation so USCIS can properly assess whether your arrest and/or conviction may impact your employment authorization eligibility.

NOTE: Provide the conviction and disposition documentation even if your records were sealed, expunged, or otherwise cleared. You must provide the documentation even if anyone, including a judge, law enforcement officer, or attorney told you that you no longer have a record or that you do not have to disclose the information.

Failure to provide the evidence listed above or secondary evidence may result in the delay or denial of your application for employment authorization.

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9. Spouse or Unmarried Child of a Principal Beneficiary of an Approved Employment-Based Immigrant Petition--(c)(36). File Form I-765 along with supporting documentation for an initial grant or a renewal of employment authorization under the (c)(36) eligibility category. You may file your application WITH your spouse’s or parent’s application under (c)(35). You may file your application while your spouse’s or parent’s application under (c)(35) is PENDING or AFTER your spouse’s or parent’s application has been approved by USCIS. If filing with your spouse’s or parent’s application, USCIS will not adjudicate your Form I-765 until after USCIS has adjudicated your spouse’s or parent’s Form I-765 first.

A. Initial Application: If this is your first application for employment authorization under the (c)(36) eligibility category, you may be eligible if:

(1) You are the spouse or unmarried child of an individual who is filing or who has been approved for compelling circumstances employment authorization under (c)(35) (See Proof of Relationship to the Principal Beneficiary of the Approved Form I-140 section below);

(2) Your spouse’s or parent’s application for compelling circumstances employment authorization under (c)(35) has been approved or is pending with USCIS (not required if you are filing your application at the same time as your spouse’s or parent’s application under (c)(35)); and

(3) You were in a valid nonimmigrant status when your spouse or parent applies for initial employment authorization under the (c)(35) eligibility category.

See Item C. Supporting Evidence by Spouse or Unmarried Child below for more information regarding what documents to submit with your application, including additional requirements if you have been arrested or convicted.

B. Renewal Application: You may be eligible to renew your application under the (c)(36) eligibility category if:

(1) You file Form I-765 before your current employment authorization expires;

(2) You are the spouse or unmarried child of an individual who is filing or who has been approved for compelling circumstances employment authorization under (c)(35) (See Proof of Relationship to the Principal Beneficiary of the Approved Form I-140 below); and

(3) Your spouse’s or parent’s application for compelling circumstances employment authorization under (c)(35) has been approved or is pending with USCIS (not required if you are filing your application at the same time as your spouse’s or parent’s renewal application under (c)(35)).

You are not required to be in a valid nonimmigrant status when you file your renewal application.

C. Supporting Evidence by Spouse or Unmarried Child

(1) Proof of Your Nonimmigrant Status. For initial applications only, submit a copy of your Arrival-Departure Record (Form I-94) showing your admission as a nonimmigrant, a copy of your current Form I-797 Notice for Form I-129, or a copy of your current Form I-797 Notice for Form I-539.

(2) Proof of Relationship to the Principal Beneficiary of the Approved Form I-140. For initial and renewal applications, if you are applying as the spouse of a principal beneficiary of an approved Form I-140, submit a copy of the marriage certificate and if applicable, copies of documents showing the legal termination of all other marriages by you or your spouse. If you are applying as the child of a principal beneficiary of an approved Form I-140, submit a copy of your birth certificate or other documents to demonstrate you qualify as the principal beneficiary’s child. If you cannot submit a copy of your marriage certificate or birth certificate, USCIS will consider secondary evidence.

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(3) Proof the Spouse or Parent Principal Beneficiary was Granted or has Applied for Employment Authorization Under Eligibility Category (c)(35). For initial and renewal applications, if you submit your Form I-765 after your spouse or parent receives employment authorization under eligibility category (c)(35), submit a copy of your spouse’s or parent’s employment authorization document or submit a copy of your spouse’s or parent’s Form I-797 Notice for Form I-765.

If your spouse’s or parent’s application under (c)(35) is pending when you file your Form I-765, submit a copy of your spouse’s or parent’s Form I-797 Notice for the pending Form I-765. USCIS will not adjudicate your Form I-765 until USCIS has adjudicated your spouse’s or parent’s Form I-765.

(4) Secondary Evidence. If you do not have the evidence listed in Items (1), (2), or (3) above, you may ask us to consider secondary evidence in support of your application for employment authorization. For additional information on secondary evidence, see Evidence in the General Instructions section of these Instructions.

(5) Proof of Arrests and Convictions. For initial and renewal applications, you must submit documentation of any arrests and/or convictions. If you were ever convicted of a felony or two or more misdemeanors committed, you cannot be granted employment authorization under this eligibility category. USCIS will make the determination as to whether your crimes fall into either of these categories. You must, however, provide information and any supporting documentation on all crimes which you were convicted of so USCIS can make an appropriate decision. Provide certified copies of all arrest reports, court dispositions, sentencing documents, and any other relevant documents.

NOTE: USCIS may, in its discretion, deny your application if you have been arrested and/or convicted of any crime.

D. Traffic Violations and Arrests

Do not select the “Yes” box for Part 2., Item Number 31.b., on the application or submit documentation if you only have had minor traffic violations. Minor traffic violations do NOT include violations that are alcohol- or drug-related. If you were ARRESTED for any traffic offense, select the “Yes” box for Item Number 31.b. on the application and provide arrest and disposition documentation so USCIS can properly assess whether your arrest and/or conviction may impact your employment authorization eligibility.

NOTE: Provide the conviction and disposition documentation even if your records were sealed, expunged, or otherwise cleared. You must provide the documentation even if anyone, including a judge, law enforcement officer, or attorney, told you that you no longer have a record or that you do not have to disclose the information.

Failure to provide the evidence listed above or secondary evidence may result in the delay or denial of your application for employment authorization.

Department of State Visa Bulletin. USCIS will adjudicate all applications for initial or renewal employment authorization according to the Visa Bulletin in effect on the date the application is filed. To see the current Visa Bulletin, please go to www.state.gov/travel and click the link to the Visa Bulletin.

Priority Dates. For more information about priority dates, please visit our Visa Availability and Priority Date website at www.uscis.gov.

Filing Location. Please see the USCIS website at www.uscis.gov/i-765 for the most current information on where to file your application for initial or renewal employment authorization under the (c)(35) or (c)(36) eligibility categories.

Family-Based Nonimmigrant Categories

1. K-1 Nonimmigrant Fiancé(e) of U.S. Citizen or K-2 Dependent--(a)(6). File Form I-765 along with evidence of your admission (for example, copies of your Form I-94, passport, or other travel document) and your K visa. You are only authorized to work under this category during your 90 days in K-1 or K-2 status. You cannot renew this EAD.

If you submit subsequent EAD applications, other than for replacement of a lost, stolen, or damaged card or a card that contains incorrect data, you must apply on a different basis. If you have a pending application for adjustment of status, you should file under category (c)(9).

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2. K-3 Nonimmigrant Spouse of U.S. Citizen or K-4 Dependent--(a)(9). File Form I-765 along with evidence of your admission (for example, copies of your Form I-94, passport, or other travel document) and your K visa.

3. Family Unity Program--(a)(13). If you are filing for initial or extension of family unity benefits, complete and submit Form I-817, Application for Family Unity benefits, according to the filing instructions on Form I-817. We will issue an EAD if we approve your Form I-817. No Form I-765 is necessary, unless you are filing for replacement of a non-expired lost, stolen, damaged, or incorrect card.

4. LIFE Family Unity--(a)(14). If you are applying for initial employment authorization under section 1504 of the LIFE Act Amendments, complete and submit Form I-817. We will issue an EAD if we approve your Form I-817; no Form I-765 is necessary unless you are filing for replacement of a non-expired lost, stolen, damaged, or incorrect card.

5. V-1, V-2, or V-3 Nonimmigrant--(a)(15). If you were granted V status or an extension of V status while in the United States, file Form I-765 with evidence of your V status (for example, an approval notice, your Form I-94, passport, or other travel document). If you are in the United States but you have not yet filed an application for V status, you may file Form I-765 at the same time as you file your application for V status. We will adjudicate this application after adjudicating your application for V status.

Adjustment of Status Categories

NOTE: If you are an asylee or refugee and have applied to adjust to lawful permanent resident status on Form I-485, file Form I-765 under category (a)(5) as an asylee or (a)(3) as a refugee. Do not file under eligibility category (c)(9). You will need to pay the filing fee or obtain a fee waiver for Form I-765 if your Form I-485 is still pending with USCIS and this is not your first EAD as a refugee or asylee and you did not pay the Form I-485 filing fee for any reason.

2. Registry Applicant Based on Continuous Residence Since January 1, 1972--(c)(16). File Form I-765 together with your Form I-485 or, if filing separately, submit a copy of your Form I-485 receipt notice or other evidence that your Form I-485 is pending.

3. Renewal EAD for National Interest Waiver Physicians: If you are requesting a renewal EAD based on your pending adjustment of status application and an approved National Interest Waiver Physician petition, you must also include evidence of your meaningful progress toward completing the National Interest Waiver obligation (for example, documentation of employment in any period during the previous year, such as copies of W-2 forms). If you did not work as a National Interest Waiver Physician during any period of the previous year, you must explain why and provide a statement of future intent to work as a physician in a qualifying location.

Other Categories

1. Legalization Temporary Resident Pursuant to INA Sections 245A or 210--(a)(2). File Form I-765 with a copy of your approval notice for Form I-687, Application for Status as a Temporary Resident Under Section 245A of the INA, or other evidence that your Form I-687 is approved; OR File Form I-765 with a copy of your approval notice for Form I-700, Application for Status as a Special Agricultural Worker, or other evidence that your Form I-700 is approved.

2. N-8 or N-9 Nonimmigrant--(a)(7). File Form I-765 with evidence of your lawful N nonimmigrant status (for example, your Form I-94, passport, or other travel document).

3. Applicant for Cancellation of Removal--(c)(10). File Form I-765 with evidence one of the following forms is pending with EOIR: EOIR-42A or EOIR-42B.

4. Applicant for Legalization Pursuant to INA Section 210--(c)(20). File Form I-765 with a copy of your receipt notice for Form I-700, Application for Status as a Temporary Resident Under Section 210 of the INA, or other evidence that your Form I-700 is pending.

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5. Applicant for Legalization Pursuant to INA Section 245A--(c)(22). File Form I-765 with a copy of your receipt notice for Form I-687, Application for Status as a Temporary Resident Under Section 245A of the INA, or Form I-698, Application to Adjust Status from Temporary to Permanent Resident Under Section 245A of the INA, or other evidence that your Form I-687 or I-698 is pending.

6. Parole--(c)(11). File Form I-765 with a copy of your Form I-94, passport, or other travel document showing you were paroled into the United States for urgent humanitarian reasons or reasons of significant public benefit (such as Cuban Family and Haitian Family Reunification Parole programs).

7. Deferred Action--(c)(14). File Form I-765 with a copy of the order, notice, or other document reflecting the grant of deferred action and proof that you have an economic necessity to work. We will consider whether you have an economic necessity to work by reviewing your current annual income, your current annual expenses, and the total current value of your assets. Provide this financial information on Form I-765WS, Form I-765 Worksheet. If you would like to provide an explanation, complete Part 3. Explanation of the worksheet. Supporting evidence is not required, but USCIS will accept and review any documentation that you submit. You do not need to include other household members’ financial information to establish your own economic necessity.

8. Consideration of Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals--(c)(33).

A. You must file Form I-765 with Form I-821D, Consideration of Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals, if you meet the guidelines described in the Form I-821D Instructions. Enter (c)(33) in Part 2., Item Number 27., as the eligibility category under which you are applying.

(1) You must file Form I-765 Worksheet to demonstrate that you have an economic necessity to work. We will consider whether you have an economic necessity to work by reviewing your current annual income, your current annual expenses, and the total current value of your assets. Provide this financial information on Form I-765WS. If you would like to provide an explanation, complete Part 3. Explanation of the worksheet. Supporting evidence is not required, but USCIS will accept and review any documentation that you submit. You do not need to include other household members’ financial information to establish your own economic necessity.

(2) The filing fee for Form I-765 is based on the Consideration of Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals category and the associated biometric services fee cannot be waived. However, we may waive the collection of certain biometrics.

9. Final Order of Deportation or Removal, including Deferral of Removal under the Convention Against Torture--(c)(18). File Form I-765 with a copy of the EOIR IJ’s Order of Removal and Form I-220B, Order of Supervision (if any). Additional factors that may be considered include, but are not limited to, the following:

A. Existence of a dependent spouse and/or children in the United States who rely on you for support;

B. Existence of economic necessity to be employed; and

C. Anticipated length of time before you can be removed from the United States.

10. LIFE Legalization Applicant--(c)(24). File Form I-765 with evidence that you were a Catholic Social Services (CSS), League of United Latin American Citizens (LULAC), or Zambrano class member applicant before October 1, 2000 and a copy of the Form I-797 Notice or other evidence that your Form I-485 is pending.

11. T-1 Nonimmigrant--(a)(16). If you are filing Form I-914, Application for T Nonimmigrant Status, and request an EAD as part of that application, you do not need to file Form I-765. If you are currently in T-1 nonimmigrant status and did not request an EAD when you filed your Form I-914, you may file Form I-765 to request an EAD. If you were granted T-1 nonimmigrant status and want to request a replacement of an EAD, file Form I-765 along with evidence of your T-1 nonimmigrant status (for example, an approval notice).

If you have filed Form I-539 to extend your T-1 nonimmigrant status, you may file Form I-765 to request a renewal of your EAD, along with evidence of your T nonimmigrant status (for example, an approval notice). You may file Form I-765 together with Form I-539 or after we approve your Form I-539. If you file Form I-765 after we approve your Form I-539, submit a copy of your I-539 approval notice.

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12. T-2, T-3, T-4, T-5, or T-6 Nonimmigrant--(c)(25). File Form I-765 along with proof of your derivative T nonimmigrant status. If you obtained derivative T nonimmigrant status while in the United States, you must submit a copy of the approval notice for your T nonimmigrant status. If you were admitted to the United States as a T nonimmigrant, you must submit a copy of your passport with your T nonimmigrant visa. If you were granted derivative T nonimmigrant status and want to request replacement of an EAD, file Form I-765 along with evidence of your derivative T nonimmigrant status (for example, an approval notice).

If you (or the T-1 principal foreign national) filed Form I-539 to extend your T-2, T-3, T-4, T-5, or T-6 nonimmigrant status in conjunction with an extension of the principal T-1 nonimmigrant’s status, you may file Form I-765 to request an initial or renewal EAD, along with evidence of your nonimmigrant status (for example, an approval notice or copy of your passport with your T nonimmigrant visa). You may also file Form I-765 together with Form I-539 or after we approve your Form I-539. If you file Form I-765 after we approve your Form I-539, submit a copy of your Form I-539 approval notice.

NOTE: Derivative family members of T-1 nonimmigrants living outside the United States are not eligible to receive an EAD until they lawfully enter the United States. If you are a derivative family member who is outside the United States, do not file Form I-765.

13. T Nonimmigrant Adjustment of Status--(c)(9). If you filed Form I-485 to adjust your status from a T-1, T-2, T-3, T-4, T-5, or T-6 nonimmigrant to a lawful permanent resident, you may file Form I-765 together with Form I-485 if you are seeking an EAD. You should also include evidence of your T nonimmigrant status (for example, an approval notice or copy of your passport with your T nonimmigrant visa). If you file Form I-765 after filing Form I-485, submit a copy of your Form I-485 receipt notice. While your Form I-485 is pending, we will extend T nonimmigrant status until a decision is made on your Form I-485.

14. U-1 Nonimmigrant--(a)(19). If you are currently residing in the United States and your Form I-918, Petition for U Nonimmigrant Status, is approved, you will receive employment authorization incident to status and USCIS will send you an EAD as evidence of that authorization. You do not need to file Form I-765. If you resided outside the United States when your Form I-918 was approved, you must file Form I-765 with USCIS when you enter the United States. You must submit a copy of your passport with your U nonimmigrant visa.

If we granted your U nonimmigrant status and you want to request a replacement of an EAD, file Form I-765 along with evidence of your U nonimmigrant status (for example, an approval notice).

If you have filed Form I-539 to extend your U-1 nonimmigrant status, you may file Form I-765 to request a renewal of your EAD, along with evidence of your U-1 nonimmigrant status (for example, an approval notice). You may file Form I-765 together with Form I-539, or after we approve your Form I-539. If you file Form I-765 after we approve your Form I-539, submit a copy of your I-539 approval notice.

NOTE: U-1 nonimmigrants living outside the United States are not eligible to receive an EAD until they lawfully enter the United States. If you have an approved Form I-918 but are outside the United States, do not file Form I-765 until you have entered the United States.

NOTE: If the statutory cap is reached within a fiscal year and USCIS uses the waiting list process described at 8 CFR 214.14(d)(2), U-1 petitioners for U nonimmigrant status in the United States can file Form I-765 to apply for an EAD based on deferred action ((c)(14)). An application for employment authorization based on deferred action can only be approved after DHS has issued deferred action in your case, regardless of when Form I-765 is filed.

15. U-2, U-3, U-4, or U-5--(a)(20). You may file Form I-765 at the same time as Form 918, Supplement A, Petition for Qualifying Family Member of U-1 Recipient, or you may file Form I-765 at a later time. If USCIS has granted you derivative U nonimmigrant status, file Form I-765 along with proof of your derivative U nonimmigrant status. If you obtained derivative U nonimmigrant status while in the United States, you must submit a copy of the approval notice for that status. If you were admitted to the United States as a U nonimmigrant, you must submit a copy of your passport with your U nonimmigrant visa.

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If you (or the principal U-1 nonimmigrant) filed Form I-539 to extend your U-2, U-3, U-4, or U-5 nonimmigrant status, you may file Form I-765 to request an initial or renewal EAD, along with evidence of your nonimmigrant status (for example, an approval notice or copy of your passport with your U nonimmigrant visa). You may file Form I-765 together with Form I-539 or after we approve your Form I-539. If you file Form I-765 after we approve your Form I-539, submit a copy of your Form I-539 approval notice.

NOTE: Derivative family members of U-1 nonimmigrants living outside the United States are not eligible to receive an EAD until they lawfully enter the United States. If you are a derivative family member who is outside the United States, do not file Form I-765.

NOTE: If the statutory cap is reached within a fiscal year and USCIS uses the waiting list process described at 8 CFR 214.14(d)(2), derivative family members of U-1 petitioners for U nonimmigrant status in the United States can file Form I-765 to apply for an EAD based on deferred action ((c)(14)). An application for employment authorization based on deferred action can only be approved after DHS has issued deferred action in your case, regardless of when Form I-765 is filed.

16. U Nonimmigrant Adjustment of Status--(c)(9). If you filed Form I-485 to adjust your status from a U-1, U-2, U-3, U-4 or U-5 Nonimmigrant to a lawful permanent resident, you may file Form I-765 along with Form I-485 if you are seeking an EAD. You should also include evidence of your U nonimmigrant status (for example, an approval notice or copy of your passport with your U nonimmigrant visa). If you file Form I-765 after filing your Form I-485, submit a copy of your Form I-485 receipt notice. While your Form I-485 is pending, we will extend your U nonimmigrant status until we make a decision on your Form I-485.

17. VAWA Self-Petitioners--(c)(31). If you are the principal beneficiary or derivative child of an approved VAWA self- petition, you are eligible for work authorization. If you are filing a Form I-360 VAWA self-petition, and request an initial EAD as the principal beneficiary of the self-petition, you do not need to file Form I-765. Principal beneficiaries of an approved VAWA self-petition seeking a renewal or replacement EAD and derivative children seeking an EAD must use Form I-765. File Form I-765 with evidence of the principal beneficiary’s approved Form I-360 VAWA self- petition (for example, a copy of the VAWA self-petition approval notice).

18. A-3 or G-5 Nonimmigrant--(c)(14). If you have filed a pending civil action against your employer because your employer violated the terms of your employment contract or conditions of your employment, you may file Form I-765 to request deferred action and receive work authorization. File Form I-765 with a copy of the civil complaint filed in court and proof of lawful admission into the United States in A-3 or G-5 status (for example, a copy of your passport with your A-3 or G-5 nonimmigrant visa). If you are requesting renewal after your initial employment authorization is granted, file Form I-765 with evidence that the civil case is still pending (for example, a recent court docket update).

19. Applicant for Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands (CNMI) Long-Term Resident Status-- (c)(37). You must file Form I-765 together with your Form I-955, Application for CNMI Long-Term Resident Status. If you do not submit your Form I-765 with all applicable fees together with your Form I-955, the entire submission will be rejected. A fee waiver is not available. If your Form I-955 is approved, you will receive an employment authorization document as evidence of your CNMI Long-Term Resident Status and evidence that you are authorized for employment in the CNMI incident to status.

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Who May File Form I-765?

You may file Form I-765 if you fall within one of the eligibility categories below.

For some categories, employment authorization is granted with your underlying immigration status (called “incident to status” employment authorization). For example, asylees and refugees are authorized to work as soon as they obtain such status, but may nonetheless apply for an EAD if they want further proof of employment eligibility.

For other categories such as parolees or individuals with deferred action, USCIS must first approve your Form I-765 before you are eligible to accept employment in the United States. Once we approve your Form I-765, USCIS will issue your EAD.

You must type or print your eligibility category in Part 3., Item Number 1., on Form I-765. Enter only one category number on the application. For example, if you are a refugee applying for an EAD, type or print “(a)(3)” in Item Number 1.

Please note that a person with a pending application for an immigration benefit or request might have a different category number than a person who was already granted the benefit or request. For example, a person with a pending asylum application may file an EAD application under category (c)(8); by contrast, the EAD category for a person already granted asylum is category (a)(5).

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Asylee/Refugee Categories (and their Spouses and Children)

Your stamped Form I-94, Arrival-Departure Record;
Your Final Notice of Eligibility for Resettlement (approval letter); or
Your Form I-797 Notice approving your derivative refugee status based on a Form I-730, Refugee/Asylee Relative Petition (if approved while in the United States).

2. Paroled as a Refugee--(a)(4). File Form I-765 with a copy of your Form I-94, passport, or travel document. If you were not paroled as a refugee, do not file under (a)(4). Review the (c)(11) eligibility category to determine if you are eligible to file under that category.

3. Asylee (Granted Asylum)--(a)(5). File Form I-765 with a copy of one of the following:

Your stamped Form I-94 indicating asylee status;
A USCIS Asylum approval letter; an order granting asylum signed by an Executive Office for Immigration Review (EOIR) immigration judge (IJ); or
A Form I-797 Notice approving your derivative asylee status based on a Form I-730 (if approved while in the United States).

NOTE: If you are an asylee and have applied to adjust to lawful permanent resident status under INA section 209 using Form I-485, file Form I-765 under category (a)(5) as an asylee. Do not file Form I-765 under eligibility category (c)(9) as an INA section 245 adjustment applicant.

4. Granted Withholding of Deportation or Removal--(a)(10). File Form I-765 with a copy of the EOIR IJ’s signed order granting withholding of deportation or removal.

Nationality Categories

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3. Temporary Protected Status (TPS)--(a)(12) and (c)(19). File Form I-765 with your Form I-821, Application for Temporary Protected Status, or evidence that we received or approved your initial or re-registration Form I-821. Include evidence of your nationality and identity as required by the Form I-821 Instructions. If an EOIR IJ or the Board of Immigration Appeals (BIA) granted you TPS, and you are requesting your first EAD or are re-registering for the first time, you must submit a copy of the EOIR IJ or BIA order that granting you TPS with your Form I-765 (such as a copy of your Form I-821 that the EOIR IJ or BIA approved). You must also follow the instructions for filing your application as described in the most recent TPS Federal Register notice regarding a TPS designation, new designation (formerly called “re-designation”), or extension for your country. Please check the USCIS website at www.uscis.gov/tps for procedures to register or re-register for TPS, including obtaining an EAD, if your country has been designated for TPS.

If your unexpired TPS EAD is lost, stolen, or damaged, file Form I-765 with required fees to request a replacement. Include a copy of your approval notice for TPS (if you have been approved) or a copy of your previous Form I-797 Notice for Form I-821 if your TPS application is still pending.

NOTE: To re-register for TPS, you must file Form I-821; however, you do not need to file Form I-765 if you do not want an EAD. If you have been approved for TPS and it has not been finally withdrawn due to individual ineligibility, you may apply for an EAD at any time while your country’s TPS designation remains in effect. Please ensure that you have complied with all requirements for maintaining your TPS, such as re-registering when required by the Federal Register notices applicable to your country’s TPS designation. Information on current TPS designations and re-registration is available at www.uscis.gov/tps.

B. Category (c)(19) EAD: A category (c)(19) EAD is a temporary benefit for TPS applicants under 8 CFR Part 244. We may issue you a category (c)(19) EAD if you have a pending Form I-821, and you are prima facie eligible for TPS.

4. Applicant for Suspension of Deportation or Cancellation of Removal--(c)(10).

Applicants Who Are Eligible to Apply for Special Rule Suspension of Deportation or Cancellation of Removal under Nicaraguan Adjustment and Central American Relief Act (NACARA) Section 203: See the Instructions to Form I-881, Application for Suspension of Deportation or Special Rule Cancellation of Removal (Pursuant to Section 203 of Public Law 105-100 (NACARA)), to determine if you are eligible to apply for NACARA 203 relief.

You may be eligible for a fee waiver under 8 CFR 103.7(c)(3)(xi).

Applicant for non-NACARA Suspension of Deportation or Cancellation of Removal: File Form I-765 with evidence that:

A. You are currently in immigration removal proceedings;

B. The appropriate application fees were paid or evidence of the immigration judge’s order granting your fee waiver (The fee can be found in the regulations, in the Instructions with the application, and at www.uscis.gov or for the EOIR forms, at www.justice.gov/eoir; and

C. Your application for Suspension of Deportation (Form EOIR-40) or Application for Cancellation of Removal and Adjustment of Status for Certain Nonpermanent Residents (Form EOIR-42B) has been properly filed with the appropriate immigration court before the current Form I-765 is filed with USCIS.

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Foreign Students Categories

1. F-1 Student Seeking Optional Practical Training (OPT) in a Position Directly Related to Major Area of Study

A. Pre-Completion OPT--(c)(3)(A). File Form I-765 up to 90 days before being enrolled for one full academic year, provided that the period of employment will not start before you have completed one full academic year. You do not need to complete the one full academic year while you are in F-1 status; if you completed the one-year requirement while in another valid nonimmigrant status and you are now in valid F-1 status, you are eligible to apply for OPT. Include evidence of having been lawfully enrolled on a full-time basis for one full academic year at a college, university, conservatory, or seminary approved by the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP) for attendance by F-1 foreign students. Also, include all previously used Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS) numbers and evidence of any previously authorized curricular practical training (CPT) or OPT and academic level at which each was authorized. You must include a Certificate of Eligibility of Nonimmigrant (F-1) Student Status (Form I-20) endorsed by the DSO before filing Form I-765.

B. Post-Completion OPT--(c)(3)(B). File Form I-765 up to 90 days before, but no later than 60 days after, your program end date. Use Part 8. Additional Information to provide all previously used SEVIS numbers and evidence of any previously authorized CPT or OPT and the academic level at which it was authorized.

NOTE: Your DSO must enter the recommendation for OPT into your SEVIS record before you file your Form I-765. You must file your Form I-765 within 30 days this DSO recommendation. If you fail to do so, we will deny your OPT request.

C. 24-Month Extension for STEM Students (Students With a Degree in Science, Technology, Engineering, or Mathematics)--(c)(3)(C). File Form I-765 up to 90 days before the expiration of your current OPT, if you are requesting a 24-month STEM extension. Include evidence the degree that is the basis for the STEM OPT extension is in one of the degree programs currently listed on the STEM Designated Degree Program List. Additionally, submit the employer’s name as listed in E-Verify, along with the E-Verify Company Identification Number or E-Verify Client Company Identification Number for the employer with whom you are seeking the 24-month STEM OPT extension. You must provide this information in Part 3., Items A. - C. in Item Number 2., of Form I-765. Your DSO must enter the recommendation for a 24-month STEM OPT extension into your SEVIS record before you file your Form I-765. You must file your Form I-765 within 60 days of this DSO recommendation.

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(1) You have been in F-1 status for one full academic year;

(2) You are in good standing as a student;

(3) You are carrying a full course of study;

(4) Acceptance of employment will not interfere with your carrying a full course of study;

(5) The employment is necessary to avoid severe economic hardship due to unforeseen circumstances beyond your control; and

(6) On-campus employment is unavailable or is not sufficient to meet the needs that have arisen due to the unforeseen circumstances.

NOTE: You may request one month of OPT for every four months of full-time study you have completed as an M-1 student.

Categories for Eligible Dependents of Employees of Diplomatic Missions, International Organizations, or NATO

1. Dependent of A-1 or A-2 Foreign Government Officials--(c)(1). Submit Form I-765 with Form I-566, Interagency Record of Request-A, G, or NATO Dependent Employment Authorization or Change/Adjustment to or from A, G, or NATO Status, Dependent Employment Authorization, through your diplomatic mission to the Department of State (DOS). DOS will forward all favorably endorsed applications directly to USCIS for adjudication.

USLO to NATO/HQ SACT

7857 Blandy Road, Suite 200

Norfolk, VA 23551-2491

If you have questions regarding the process or document requirements, email [email protected].

Employment-Based Nonimmigrant Categories

1. B-1 Nonimmigrant Who Is the Personal or Domestic Servant of a Nonimmigrant Employer--(c)(17)(i). File Form I-765 with:

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A. Evidence of your lawful B nonimmigrant status (for example, your Form I-94, passport, or other travel document);

B. Evidence that your employer is a B, E, F, H, I, J, L, M, O, P, Q, or TN nonimmigrant;

C. Evidence you worked for the employer for at least one year before the employer entered the United States, or your employer has regularly employed personal and domestic servants either year round or seasonally and has done so for a period of several years before coming to the United States;

D. Evidence you have worked for this employer as a personal or domestic servant for at least one year, or evidence you have at least one year of experience as a personal or domestic servant; and

E. Evidence establishing you have a residence abroad that you have no intention of abandoning.

2. B-1 Nonimmigrant Domestic Servant of a U.S. Citizen--(c)(17)(ii). File Form I-765 with:

A. Evidence of your lawful B nonimmigrant status (for example, your Form I-94, passport, or other travel document);

B. Evidence that your employer is a U.S. citizen;

C. Evidence that your employer has a permanent home abroad or is stationed outside the United States and is temporarily visiting the United States.

D. Evidence that your employer employed you as a domestic servant prior to your employer’s visit to the United States.

3. B-1 Nonimmigrant Employed by a Foreign Airline--(c)(17)(iii). File Form I-765 with:

A. Evidence of your lawful B nonimmigrant status (for example, your Form I-94, passport, or other travel document); and

B. A letter from a foreign airline engaged in international transportation fully describing your duties and stating your position would entitle you to E nonimmigrant status except for the fact that you are not a national of the airline’s country, or because there is no treaty of commerce and navigation in effect between the United States and that country.