USCIS Updates Form I-765 to Include Optional Application for a Social Security Card
On October
2, 2017, the USCIS announced
that foreign nationals in certain categories or classifications may apply for
work authorization and a social security number (SSN) simultaneously using the
updated Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization. Previously, those foreign nationals eligible
to file Form I-765 would be required to apply separately in-person at a local
Social Security office for an SSN. The
updated Form I-765 will permit applicants to simultaneously apply for both an
employment authorization document (EAD) and an SSN. Applicants who receive their approved EADs in
the mail from the USCIS will likely receive their new Social Security card from
the Social Security Administration approximately two weeks later.
Please note
that only certain individuals within particular categories or classifications
may be eligible to apply for and receive employment authorization from the
USCIS using Form I-765. These categories
and classifications include, but are not limited to, F-1 international students
applying for Optional Practical Training (OPT) as they near the end of their
academic studies, as well as dependent spouses in nonimmigrant classifications
such as E-2, J-2, L-2, and in limited circumstances, H-4.
If you already
are a recipient of an SSN and you are (or will be) eligible to apply for
employment authorization using Form I-765, you will be required to provide your
SSN on Form I-765. Please note that
beginning 12/04/2017, the USCIS will only accept the 07/17/2017 edition of Form
I-765. For additional information about
Form I-765, please refer to the USCIS
website.
Questions?
Feel free to contact
the Office of International Services.