I’m from Algeria and currently living in Alabama on a pending asylum case. I applied for asylum in October 2023 and completed my biometrics a few weeks later. I haven’t had my interview yet, and it’s been almost nine months. I recently received a job offer from a local business, but I’m not sure if I’m allowed to work while my asylum case is still pending. I also applied for a work permit (Form I-765) earlier this year, but I haven’t received anything yet. Can I accept the job offer now, or do I have to wait until I get official work authorization?

Question

Osahon Ibhadode · Accepted Answer

You cannot legally work in the U.S. until you receive your Employment Authorization Document (EAD). Even if your asylum application is pending, working without a valid EAD could hurt your case and future immigration options.

Aisulu Nurpeisova · Answer

Since you filed for asylum in October 2023, you're eligible to apply for a work permit 150 days after your asylum application was received. USCIS can begin processing your EAD after 180 days, but delays are common, so keep checking your case status online.

Zubair Qureshi · Answer

If you already applied for the EAD and it's pending, make sure USCIS has your correct address and documents. You can submit an online case inquiry if it's been more than 90 days since filing. But you still need to wait for the actual card before starting work.

Raouf Benali

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