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Fill in Your I 765 Template

The I-765 form is an application used by individuals to request permission to work in the United States. This form is essential for those seeking employment authorization, whether they are applying for the first time or renewing an existing authorization. Understanding how to complete the I-765 accurately can significantly impact the processing of employment requests.

Table of Contents

The I-765 form, officially known as the Application for Employment Authorization, is a crucial document for individuals seeking permission to work in the United States. This form is essential for various categories of applicants, including those applying for initial employment authorization, renewing existing work permits, or replacing lost or damaged employment authorization documents. The form requires detailed personal information, such as the applicant's full legal name, mailing address, and immigration status, ensuring that U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) can accurately assess eligibility. Additionally, applicants must specify their reason for applying by selecting from a list of options, which helps USCIS categorize the request appropriately. The form also includes sections for applicants to provide information about their previous employment authorization history, Social Security details, and any other names they may have used. Importantly, applicants must ensure that all responses are complete and accurate, as incomplete submissions may lead to delays or denials. Understanding the components and requirements of the I-765 form is vital for anyone navigating the employment authorization process in the U.S.

Sample - I 765 Form

Family Name (Last Name)

Given Name (First Name)

Middle Name

Family Name (Last Name)

Given Name (First Name)

Middle Name

Family Name (Last Name)

Given Name (First Name)

Middle Name

Renewal of my permission to accept employment. (Attach a copy of your previous employment authorization document.)

NOTE: Replacement (correction) of an employment authorization document due to USCIS error does not require a new Form I-765 and filing fee. Refer to Replacement for Card Error in the What is the Filing Fee section of the Form I-765 Instructions for further details.

Initial permission to accept employment.

Replacement of lost, stolen, or damaged employment authorization document, or correction of my employment authorization document NOT DUE to U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) error.

Application For Employment Authorization

USCIS

Department of Homeland Security

Form I-765

OMB No. 1615-0040

U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services

Expires 07/31/2022

Authorization/Extension

Fee Stamp

Action Block

Valid From

For

Authorization/Extension

Valid Through

USCIS

Use

Only

Alien Registration Number A-

Remarks

To be completed by an attorney or

Select this box if Form G-28

Attorney or Accredited Representative

Board of Immigration Appeals (BIA)-

is attached.

USCIS Online Account Number (if any)

accredited representative (if any).

►START HERE - Type or print in black ink. Answer all questions fully and accurately. If a question does not apply to you (for example, if you have never been married and the question asks, “Provide the name of your current spouse”), type or print “N/A” unless otherwise directed. If your answer to a question which requires a numeric response is zero or none (for example, “How many children do you have” or “How many times have you departed the United States”), type or print “None” unless otherwise directed.

Part 1. Reason for Applying

I am applying for (select only one box):

1.a. 1.b.

1.c.

Part 2. Information About You

Your Full Legal Name

1.a. Family Name

(Last Name)

1.b. Given Name

(First Name)

1.c. Middle Name

Other Names Used

Provide all other names you have ever used, including aliases, maiden name, and nicknames. If you need extra space to complete this section, use the space provided in Part 6. Additional Information.

2.a.

2.b.

2.c.

3.a.

3.b.

3.c.

4.a.

4.b.

4.c.

Form I-765 Edition 08/25/20

Page 1 of 7

Part 2. Information About You (continued)

Your U.S. Mailing Address

(USPS ZIP Code Lookup)

5.a. In Care Of Name (if any)

5.b.	Street Number
	Street Number
	and Name
5.c.	Apt.	Ste.		Flr.
5.c.	Apt.	Ste.		Flr.
5.d.	City or Town



5.e.	State		5.f.	ZIP Code
5.e.	State		5.f.	ZIP Code

6.Is your current mailing address the same as your physical

	address?				Yes	No
	NOTE: If you answered “No” to Item Number 6.,
	provide your physical address below.

U.S. Physical Address
7.a.	Street Number
	Street Number
	and Name
7.b.	Apt.	Ste.		Flr.
7.b.	Apt.	Ste.		Flr.
7.c.	City or Town



7.d.			7.e.
7.d.	State		7.e.	ZIP Code

Other Information

8.Alien Registration Number (A-Number) (if any)

► A-

9.USCIS Online Account Number (if any)

►

10. Gender

Male

Female

11.Marital Status

Single

Married

Divorced

Widowed

12.Have you previously filed Form I-765?

Yes No

13.a. Has the Social Security Administration (SSA) ever officially issued a Social Security card to you?

Yes No

NOTE: If you answered “No” to Item Number 13.a., skip to Item Number 14. If you answered “Yes” to Item Number 13.a., provide the information requested in Item

Number 13.b.

13.b. Provide your Social Security number (SSN) (if known).

►

14.Do you want the SSA to issue you a Social Security card? (You must also answer “Yes” to Item Number 15., Consent for Disclosure, to receive a card.)

Yes No

NOTE: If you answered “No” to Item Number 14., skip to Part 2., Item Number 18.a. If you answered “Yes” to Item Number 14., you must also answer “Yes” to Item

Number 15.

15.Consent for Disclosure: I authorize disclosure of information from this application to the SSA as required for the purpose of assigning me an SSN and issuing me a

Social Security card.

Yes

NOTE: If you answered “Yes” to Item Numbers

14.- 15., provide the information requested in Item Numbers 16.a. - 17.b.

Father's Name

Provide your father's birth name.

16.a. Family Name (Last Name)

16.b. Given Name (First Name)

Mother's Name

Provide your mother's birth name.

17.a. Family Name (Last Name)

17.b. Given Name (First Name)

Your Country or Countries of Citizenship or Nationality

List all countries where you are currently a citizen or national. If you need extra space to complete this item, use the space provided in Part 6. Additional Information.

18.a. Country

18.b. Country

Form I-765 Edition 08/25/20

Page 2 of 7

Part 2. Information About You (continued)

Place of Birth

List the city/town/village, state/province, and country where you were born.

19.a. City/Town/Village of Birth

19.b. State/Province of Birth

19.c. Country of Birth

20. Date of Birth (mm/dd/yyyy)

Information About Your Last Arrival in the United States

21.a. Form I-94 Arrival-Departure Record Number (if any)

►

21.b. Passport Number of Your Most Recently Issued Passport

21.c. Travel Document Number (if any)

21.d. Country That Issued Your Passport or Travel Document

21.e. Expiration Date for Passport or Travel Document (mm/dd/yyyy)

22.Date of Your Last Arrival Into the United States, On or

About (mm/dd/yyyy)

23.Place of Your Last Arrival Into the United States

24.Immigration Status at Your Last Arrival (for example, B-2 visitor, F-1 student, or no status)

25.Your Current Immigration Status or Category (for example, B-2 visitor, F-1 student, parolee, deferred action, or no status or category)

26.Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS) Number (if any)

►N-

Information About Your Eligibility Category

27.Eligibility Category. Refer to the Who May File Form I-765 section of the Form I-765 Instructions to determine the appropriate eligibility category for this application.

Enter the appropriate letter and number for your eligibility category below (for example, (a)(8), (c)(17)(iii)).

(

) (

)

28.(c)(3)(C) STEM OPT Eligibility Category. If you entered the eligibility category (c)(3)(C) in Item Number 27., provide the information requested in Item Numbers 28.a. - 28.c.

28.a. Degree

28.b. Employer's Name as Listed in E-Verify

28.c. Employer's E-Verify Company Identification Number or a Valid E-Verify Client Company Identification Number

29.(c)(26) Eligibility Category. If you entered the eligibility category (c)(26) in Item Number 27., provide the receipt number of your H-1B spouse's most recent Form I-797 Notice for Form I-129, Petition for a Nonimmigrant Worker.

►

30.(c)(8) Eligibility Category If you entered the eligibility category (c)(8) in Item Number 27., provide the information requested in Item Numbers 30.a. - 30.g.

30.a. Have you EVER been arrested for, and/or charged with, and/or convicted of any crime in any country?

Yes No

NOTE: If you answered “Yes” to Item Number 30.a., refer to Special Filing Instructions for Those With Pending Asylum Applications (c)(8) of the Form I-765 Instructions for information about providing court dispositions.

30.b. Did you enter the United States lawfully through a U.S. port of entry and were you inspected and admitted or paroled after inspection by an immigration officer? (If you answer “Yes,” you MUST provide evidence of your lawful entry.)

Yes

30.c. If you answered “No” to Item Number 30.b., did you present yourself to the Secretary of Homeland Security or his or her delegate (DHS) within 48 hours of entry or attempted entry AND express an intention to seek asylum within the United States or express a fear of persecution

or torture in your home country?	Yes	No

Form I-765 Edition 08/25/20

Page 3 of 7

Part 2. Information About You (continued)

If you answered “Yes” to Item Number 30.c., provide the following information:

30.d. Date you presented yourself to DHS

30.e. Location where you presented yourself to DHS

30.f. Country of claimed persecution

30.g. Provide an explanation for why you did not enter the United States lawfully through a U.S. port of entry. If you need extra space to complete this item, use the space provided in Part 6. Additional Information.

NOTE: Refer to the Special Filing Instructions for Those With Pending Asylum Applications (c)(8) section of the Form

I-765 Instructions for more information.

31.a. (c)(35) and (c)(36) Eligibility Category. If you entered the eligibility category (c)(35) in Item Number 27., please provide the receipt number of your Form I-797 Notice for Form I-140, Immigrant Petition for Alien Worker. If you entered the eligibility category (c)(36) in Item Number

27., please provide the receipt number of your spouse's or parent's Form I-797 Notice for Form I-140.

►

31.b. If you entered the eligibility category (c)(35) or (c)(36) in Item Number 27., have you EVER been arrested for

and/or convicted of any crime?

Yes

NOTE: If you answered “Yes” to Item Number 31.b., refer to Employment-Based Nonimmigrant Categories, Items 8. - 9., in the Who May File Form I-765 section of the Form I-765 Instructions for information about providing court dispositions.

Part 3. Applicant's Statement, Contact

Information, Declaration, Certification, and

Signature

NOTE: Read the Penalties section of the Form I-765 Instructions before completing this section. You must file Form I-765 while in the United States.

Applicant's Statement

NOTE: Select the box for either Item Number 1.a. or 1.b. If applicable, select the box for Item Number 2.

1.a. I can read and understand English, and I have read and understand every question and instruction on this application and my answer to every question.

1.b. The interpreter named in Part 4. read to me every question and instruction on this application and my answer to every question in

a language in which I am fluent, and I understood everything.

2. At my request, the preparer named in Part 5.,

prepared this application for me based only upon information I provided or authorized.

Applicant's Contact Information

3.Applicant's Daytime Telephone Number

4.Applicant's Mobile Telephone Number (if any)

5.Applicant's Email Address (if any)

6. Select this box if you are a Salvadoran or Guatemalan national eligible for benefits under the ABC settlement agreement.

Applicant's Declaration and Certification

Copies of any documents I have submitted are exact photocopies of unaltered, original documents, and I understand that USCIS may require that I submit original documents to USCIS at a later date. Furthermore, I authorize the release of any information from any and all of my records that USCIS may need to determine my eligibility for the immigration benefit that I seek.

I furthermore authorize release of information contained in this application, in supporting documents, and in my USCIS records, to other entities and persons where necessary for the administration and enforcement of U.S. immigration law.

Form I-765 Edition 08/25/20

Page 4 of 7

Part 3. Applicant's Statement, Contact

Information, Declaration, Certification, and

Signature (continued)

I understand that USCIS may require me to appear for an appointment to take my biometrics (fingerprints, photograph, and/or signature) and, at that time, if I am required to provide biometrics, I will be required to sign an oath reaffirming that:

1)I reviewed and understood all of the information contained in, and submitted with, my application; and

2)All of this information was complete, true, and correct at the time of filing.

I certify, under penalty of perjury, that all of the information in my application and any document submitted with it were provided or authorized by me, that I reviewed and understand all of the information contained in, and submitted with, my application and that all of this information is complete, true, and correct.

Applicant's Signature

7.a. Applicant's Signature

7.b. Date of Signature (mm/dd/yyyy)

NOTE TO ALL APPLICANTS: If you do not completely fill out this application or fail to submit required documents listed in the Instructions, USCIS may deny your application.

Part 4. Interpreter's Contact Information, Certification, and Signature

Interpreter's Mailing Address

3.a.	Street Number
3.a.	Street Number
3.b.	and Name
		Ste.
	Apt.	Ste.		Flr.
3.c.	City or Town



3.d.			3.e.
3.d.	State		3.e.	ZIP Code
3.f.
	Province
	Province
3.g.	Postal Code


3.h.	Country
3.h.	Country

Interpreter's Contact Information

4.Interpreter's Daytime Telephone Number

5.Interpreter's Mobile Telephone Number (if any)

6.Interpreter's Email Address (if any)

Part 4. Interpreter's Contact Information, Certification, and Signature

Provide the following information about the interpreter.

Interpreter's Full Name

1.a. Interpreter's Family Name (Last Name)

1.b. Interpreter's Given Name (First Name)

2.Interpreter's Business or Organization Name (if any)

Interpreter's Certification

I certify, under penalty of perjury, that:
I am fluent in English and	,

which is the same language specified in Part 3., Item Number 1.b., and I have read to this applicant in the identified language every question and instruction on this application and his or her answer to every question. The applicant informed me that he or she understands every instruction, question, and answer on the application, including the Applicant's Declaration and Certification, and has verified the accuracy of every answer.

Interpreter's Signature

7.a. Interpreter's Signature

7.b. Date of Signature (mm/dd/yyyy)

Form I-765 Edition 08/25/20

Page 5 of 7

Part 5. Contact Information, Declaration, and Signature of the Person Preparing this Application, If Other Than the Applicant

Provide the following information about the preparer.

Preparer's Full Name

1.a. Preparer's Family Name (Last Name)

1.b. Preparer's Given Name (First Name)

2.Preparer's Business or Organization Name (if any)

Preparer's Mailing Address

3.a.	Street Number
3.a.	Street Number
3.b.	and Name
		Ste.
	Apt.	Ste.		Flr.
3.c.	City or Town



3.d.			3.e.
3.d.	State		3.e.	ZIP Code
3.f.
	Province
	Province
3.g.	Postal Code


3.h.	Country
3.h.	Country

Preparer's Contact Information

4.Preparer's Daytime Telephone Number

5.Preparer's Mobile Telephone Number (if any)

6.Preparer's Email Address (if any)

Preparer's Statement

7.a.	I am not an attorney or accredited representative but
	have prepared this application on behalf of the
	applicant and with the applicant's consent.
7.b.	I am an attorney or accredited representative and my
	representation of the applicant in this case
	extends	does not extend beyond the
	preparation of this application.

NOTE: If you are an attorney or accredited representative, you need to submit a completed Form G-28, Notice of Entry of Appearance as Attorney or Accredited Representative, with this application.

Preparer's Certification

By my signature, I certify, under penalty of perjury, that I prepared this application at the request of the applicant. The applicant then reviewed this completed application and informed me that he or she understands all of the information contained in, and submitted with, his or her application, including the Applicant's Declaration and Certification, and that all of this information is complete, true, and correct. I completed this application based only on information that the applicant provided to me or authorized me to obtain or use.

Preparer's Signature

8.a. Preparer's Signature

8.b. Date of Signature (mm/dd/yyyy)

Form I-765 Edition 08/25/20

Page 6 of 7

Part 6. Additional Information

If you need extra space to provide any additional information within this application, use the space below. If you need more space than what is provided, you may make copies of this page to complete and file with this application or attach a separate sheet of paper. Type or print your name and A-Number (if any) at the top of each sheet; indicate the Page Number, Part Number, and Item Number to which your answer refers; and sign and date each sheet.

1.a.

Family Name

1.b.

(Last Name)

Given Name

1.c.

(First Name)

Middle Name

A-Number (if any) ►A-

3.a.

Page Number 3.b. Part Number 3.c. Item Number

3.d.

4.a. Page Number 4.b. Part Number 4.c. Item Number

4.d.

5.a. Page Number 5.b. Part Number 5.c. Item Number

5.d.

6.a. Page Number 6.b. Part Number 6.c. Item Number

6.d.

7.a. Page Number 7.b. Part Number 7.c. Item Number

7.d.

Form I-765 Edition 08/25/20

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↓ I 765 PDF

File Specs

Fact Name	Details
Purpose of Form	The I-765 form is used to apply for employment authorization in the United States.
Eligibility Categories	Applicants must select an eligibility category that applies to their situation, such as (c)(3)(C) for STEM OPT.
Renewal and Replacement	Individuals can renew their employment authorization or replace a lost, stolen, or damaged document.
Filing Fee	A fee is typically required when submitting the I-765, but certain situations may waive this requirement.
Supporting Documents	Applicants must attach necessary documents, such as a copy of their previous employment authorization.
USCIS Processing Time	Processing times for the I-765 can vary, often taking several months, depending on the workload of USCIS.
State-Specific Requirements	Some states may have additional requirements or forms related to employment authorization, governed by state labor laws.

I 765 - Usage Guidelines

Filling out the I-765 form is an important step in applying for employment authorization in the United States. After completing the form, you will need to gather the required documents and submit your application to the appropriate address as specified in the instructions. Ensure that all information is accurate and complete to avoid delays.

Start the Form: Use black ink to type or print your answers clearly.
Part 1 - Reason for Applying: Select one box indicating whether you are applying for initial permission, renewal, or replacement of your employment authorization document.
Part 2 - Information About You: Fill in your full legal name, including family name, given name, and middle name.
Other Names Used: List any other names you have ever used, such as aliases or maiden names.
U.S. Mailing Address: Provide your current mailing address, including street number, city, state, and ZIP code.
Physical Address: If your physical address is different from your mailing address, provide that information as well.
Alien Registration Number: If you have an A-number, enter it here. If not, leave it blank.
Social Security Information: Answer whether you have been issued a Social Security card and provide your SSN if applicable.
Parent's Names: Provide your father's and mother's birth names.
Country of Citizenship: List all countries where you are a citizen or national.
Place of Birth: Enter the city, state, and country where you were born, along with your date of birth.
Last Arrival Information: Fill in your Form I-94 number, passport number, and immigration status at your last arrival.
Eligibility Category: Refer to the instructions to determine your eligibility category and enter the appropriate code.
Applicant's Statement: Read the statement carefully and select the appropriate box regarding your understanding of the application.
Contact Information: Provide your daytime and mobile telephone numbers, along with your email address if you have one.
Signature: Sign and date the form, certifying that all information is true and correct.
Interpreter Information: If applicable, provide the interpreter's details and signature.

Your Questions, Answered

What is Form I-765?

Form I-765 is an application for employment authorization in the United States. It allows individuals who are eligible to request permission to work legally. This form is often used by non-citizens, such as students or asylum seekers, who need to obtain or renew their work authorization. Completing this form correctly is essential for receiving the employment authorization document (EAD).

Who can apply using Form I-765?

Various individuals may apply using Form I-765, including those in specific visa categories, individuals with pending asylum applications, and certain students on Optional Practical Training (OPT). It's important to check the eligibility categories listed in the form instructions to determine if you qualify. Make sure to select the appropriate reason for applying when filling out the form.

What documents do I need to submit with Form I-765?

When submitting Form I-765, you will need to include certain documents. These may include a copy of your previous employment authorization document if you are renewing your application. If you are applying for the first time, you may need to provide proof of your current immigration status, identification documents, and any other supporting materials as specified in the instructions. Always refer to the latest guidelines to ensure you include all necessary documentation.

How long does it take to process Form I-765?

The processing time for Form I-765 can vary. Generally, it may take several months to receive a decision. Factors such as your specific circumstances, the volume of applications received, and whether additional information is required can influence the timeline. You can check the USCIS website for current processing times to get an estimate.

What should I do if my application is denied?

If your Form I-765 is denied, you will receive a notice explaining the reasons for the denial. You may have the option to appeal the decision or file a motion to reopen or reconsider the case. It's important to carefully read the denial notice and consider seeking legal advice if you need assistance navigating your options.

Can I work while my Form I-765 is pending?

Whether you can work while your Form I-765 is pending depends on your current immigration status and the specific circumstances of your application. If you are applying for renewal of your employment authorization and your previous authorization is still valid, you may continue working until a decision is made. However, if your previous authorization has expired, you must wait for a decision before starting any employment.

Common mistakes

Inaccurate Personal Information: Many applicants mistakenly provide incorrect details about their name, date of birth, or address. It’s crucial to ensure that all personal information matches official documents.
Missing Signatures: Some people forget to sign the form. A missing signature can lead to delays or even denial of the application.
Not Selecting the Right Application Reason: Applicants often fail to select the appropriate box for their reason for applying. This can confuse the processing of the application.
Omitting Required Documents: Forgetting to attach necessary documents, like a previous employment authorization document, can result in application rejection. Always double-check the required documentation list.
Incorrect Eligibility Category: Misidentifying the eligibility category can lead to complications. It's essential to refer to the instructions to choose the correct category.
Failure to Provide All Other Names: Not listing all names used, including maiden names or aliases, can create issues. This information is vital for proper identification.
Ignoring Instructions: Many applicants overlook specific instructions, such as how to answer questions that don’t apply to them. Always read the instructions carefully to avoid mistakes.

Documents used along the form

The Form I-765 is an application for employment authorization in the United States. When filing this form, there are several other documents and forms that may be required or helpful in supporting the application. Below is a list of commonly used forms and documents that can accompany the I-765.

Form I-94: This is the Arrival/Departure Record issued by U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP). It provides proof of the individual's most recent entry into the United States and their immigration status at that time.
Form I-797: This is a Notice of Action form issued by USCIS. It serves as proof of approval for various immigration petitions or applications, which may be relevant to the I-765 application.
Employment Authorization Document (EAD): If the applicant is renewing their work authorization, a copy of the previous EAD should be included. This document shows that the individual was previously authorized to work in the U.S.
Form G-28: This form is used to designate an attorney or accredited representative to act on behalf of the applicant. If legal representation is involved, this form should be submitted with the I-765.
Social Security Card: If the applicant has a Social Security number, providing a copy of the Social Security card can help facilitate the processing of the I-765.
Passport or Travel Document: A copy of the applicant's passport or other travel document may be required to establish identity and nationality.
Supporting Documents for Eligibility: Depending on the eligibility category selected on the I-765, additional documents may be needed. This could include proof of enrollment in a school for students or a letter from an employer for certain work-based categories.

Gathering these documents can help ensure that the I-765 application is complete and accurate. It is important to carefully review the requirements for each document and provide all necessary information to avoid delays in processing.

Similar forms

The Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization, is similar to Form I-131, Application for Travel Document. Both forms are used by individuals who are seeking permission from U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) for specific benefits. Form I-131 allows individuals to apply for re-entry permits, refugee travel documents, or advance parole, while Form I-765 specifically requests authorization to work in the United States. Both forms require personal information and details about the applicant's immigration status, and they are part of the broader immigration process managed by USCIS.

Form I-485, Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status, shares similarities with Form I-765 as both are integral to the process of obtaining legal status in the U.S. While Form I-765 focuses on employment authorization, Form I-485 allows individuals to apply for a green card. Applicants must provide extensive personal information, including their immigration history and current status, on both forms. Each form serves a distinct purpose but is often part of a larger application process for individuals seeking to live and work in the U.S. legally.

Form I-130, Petition for Alien Relative, is another document that is related to Form I-765. While Form I-765 is used to request work authorization, Form I-130 is used by U.S. citizens and lawful permanent residents to establish a qualifying relationship with a foreign relative. Both forms require information about the applicant and their family members. The approval of Form I-130 can lead to the ability to file Form I-765 for the relative, enabling them to work in the U.S. during the immigration process.

Form I-821, Application for Temporary Protected Status (TPS), is also similar to Form I-765. Both forms are utilized by individuals who are in the U.S. and seeking specific benefits related to their immigration status. Form I-821 allows individuals from designated countries affected by conflict or disaster to apply for temporary protection from deportation. If granted TPS, individuals may then file Form I-765 to obtain work authorization while they are protected from removal.

Form I-601, Application for Waiver of Grounds of Inadmissibility, shares a connection with Form I-765 in that both can be part of the immigration process for individuals facing barriers to legal status. While Form I-765 requests employment authorization, Form I-601 is used to request a waiver for certain grounds that may prevent an individual from obtaining a visa or green card. Both forms require detailed personal information and documentation to support the application.

Form I-864, Affidavit of Support, is similar to Form I-765 in that both are part of the immigration process for individuals seeking to live and work in the U.S. Form I-864 is used by sponsors to demonstrate their financial ability to support an immigrant. While Form I-765 focuses on work authorization, the approval of Form I-864 is often necessary for the immigrant to adjust their status and subsequently apply for employment authorization.

Lastly, Form N-400, Application for Naturalization, is related to Form I-765 in the context of individuals pursuing legal status in the U.S. Form N-400 is used by permanent residents to apply for U.S. citizenship. While Form I-765 is for employment authorization, both forms require the applicant to provide personal information and details about their immigration history. Successful completion of Form N-400 can lead to citizenship, which would allow the individual to work freely in the U.S. without needing to file Form I-765.

Dos and Don'ts

When filling out the I-765 form, follow these guidelines:

Type or print in black ink only.
Answer all questions completely and accurately.
Use "N/A" for questions that do not apply to you.
Provide "None" for numeric responses that equal zero.
Attach a copy of your previous employment authorization document if renewing.
Ensure your signature is present before submission.

Avoid these common mistakes:

Do not leave any sections blank; this can lead to delays.
Do not forget to check the eligibility category before applying.
Do not submit documents that are not photocopies of original documents.
Do not use a pencil or any ink color other than black.
Do not provide false information; this can result in denial.
Do not forget to keep a copy of your completed form for your records.

Misconceptions

Misconception 1: The I-765 form is only for first-time applicants.

This form is also used for renewals and replacements of employment authorization documents. If you have an existing authorization that is expiring, you can use this form to apply for a renewal.

Misconception 2: You cannot apply for a replacement of your employment authorization document.

You can apply for a replacement if your document is lost, stolen, or damaged. Additionally, if there was an error made by USCIS, you do not need to file a new I-765.

Misconception 3: Filing the I-765 guarantees you will receive employment authorization.

Filing the form does not guarantee approval. USCIS will review your application and make a determination based on your eligibility and the information provided.

Misconception 4: You do not need to provide any supporting documents.

Supporting documents are often required. This may include previous employment authorization documents or evidence of your eligibility category.

Misconception 5: You can submit the I-765 form without any signatures.

All applicants must sign the form. A missing signature can lead to delays or denials of your application.

Misconception 6: You can file the I-765 from outside the United States.

The I-765 must be filed while you are physically present in the United States. If you are outside the country, you will need to wait until you return to file.

Key takeaways

When filling out the I-765 form, ensure that you answer all questions completely and accurately. If a question does not apply to you, indicate “N/A” instead of leaving it blank.
If you are applying for a renewal of your employment authorization, attach a copy of your previous employment authorization document to your application.
Note that a replacement of an employment authorization document due to an error by USCIS does not require a new I-765 form or a filing fee.
Use black ink when filling out the form. This ensures that your application is clear and easy to read.
In the section for your full legal name, include all names you have ever used, including aliases and maiden names.
If your mailing address differs from your physical address, provide both. This is essential for accurate communication from USCIS.
Make sure to check the eligibility category that applies to you before submitting the form. This determines your eligibility for employment authorization.
When providing your Social Security number, remember that it is optional unless you wish to receive a Social Security card.
Be aware that you may be required to provide biometrics, such as fingerprints and a photograph, as part of the application process.
Finally, sign and date your application. An unsigned application will be considered incomplete and may be denied.