Many foreign nationals come to the United States to work. However, it’s essential to note that all workers must have legal authorization to work in the country. One way to establish your authorization is by acquiring a work permit issued by the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). A work permit is subject to a specific validity period, which means you must understand how to maintain your status to continue working. Failing to do so could yield profound repercussions on your immigration status. Please continue reading to learn how you can renew your work permit and what could happen if your authorization expires. When you are ready to discuss your immigration case, please don’t hesitate to contact an experienced Middlesex County, New Jersey Business Immigration Lawyer who can help guide you through these complex matters.
What is a Work Permit?
If you have the right combination of skills, education, and work experience, you may be able to live and work permanently in the United States. Depending on your qualifications you may be eligible to receive an employment-based immigrant visa. If you meet certain eligibility requirements, you may file Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization. Upon successful completion, you will receive an Employment Authorization Document (EAD), which proves your eligibility to work in the U.S. It’s important to note that lawful permanent residents don’t need an EAD to prove their eligibility to work in the country. If you fall under any of the following categories, you must obtain a work permit before accepting employment:
- Individuals with authorization to work in the country because of their immigrant status
- Individuals with a pending application for adjustment of status (green card)
- Asylum seekers who have been waiting 150 days or more for a decision on their case
- Immigrants with temporary protected status
- Foreign students with certain off-campus employment
- DACA recipients
- Nonimmigrants with a status that allows them to be in the U.S. but not work
How Does the Renewal Process Work?
As mentioned above, an EAD is only valid for a certain period. To renew, you must file a new form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization. In addition to filing a new application, you must pay the associated filing fee which is generally $410 unless you have a fee waiver. You will also have to pay an $85 biometrics fee. Once these steps are completed, USCIS will process your renewal and send you a new card if you still meet the eligibility requirements to work in the U.S. Keep in mind that it’s better to file before your expiration date. However, don’t renew more than six months ahead of your expiration date.
If your work permit expires, you could lose your authorization to work in the U.S. As such, it’s in your best interest to contact a dedicated lawyer from the Law Offices of Aditya Surti, LLC, who can help guide you through each phase of the renewal process. Connect with us today for more information.
