How to Get a Work Permit

Obtaining a work permit is comprised of simple, but possibly time-consuming steps.

In the United States any person who is not a citizen or Green Card holder will need to apply for a work permit if they want to gain employment. Work permits are also required for minors who are under the age of 18. Getting a work permit is relatively simple, however the completion of these steps may take some time due to verification processes.

Things You'll Need

• Social Security Number
• Alien Registration Number

Instructions

Instructions

1. Check the citizenship status of the person in question. If they are a U.S. citizen then they do not require a work permit.

2. Check if the person has a Green Card. If they do then, they also do not need a work permit. A green card confers the ability to work in an official capacity in the United States.

3. Check if the person has a Social Security Number or Alien Registration Number. If not then they will have to apply for one. The link to obtain a Social Security Number application is in the Resources section. A U.S. passport, driver's license or non-driver identity card is required. The application will take a few weeks to be verified and then the person can apply for a work permit.

4. Apply for a work permit by completing the USCIS I-765 application. This application can be found online by going to the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services website or by clicking on the link in the Resources section below. A Social Security Number or Alien Registration Number is needed to complete the form. There is no outside documentation needed to submit with the application.

5. Mail the completed form to the USCIS Service Center in Virginia. The envelope should be directed to the following:

   USCIS

   Vermont Service Center

   75 Lower Welden

   St. Albans, VT 05479-0001

   The USCIS will usually make a decision within the span of 90 days. In the meantime you can call the toll free number (800-375-5283) or log onto the link in the Resources section to check the status of your case.

6. Visit the local USCIS Service Center and apply for a temporary work permit if you do not receive an official decision regarding your employment status in at least 90 days. Make sure you have your identifiation information (Social Security card or Alien Registration Number) and any previous paperwork correspondence with the USCIS. You will then have to fill out a paper application and a decision will be returned in a few weeks.

References

• Obtain a US work permit: Employment Authorization Document
• USCIS Service and Office locator

Resources

• Read this Article in Spanish
• USCIS I-765 Application Link
• USCIS Case Status
• Social Security Number Application