Updated USCIS Form Creates Streamlined Path To EAD And Social Security Number

Following an announcement issued on October 2, 2017, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) will begin offering foreign nationals in certain categories the option to simultaneously file for work authorization and a social security number by filing a single form with USCIS. The new option, coming as a result of an interagency partnership between USCIS and the Social Security Administration (SSA), is effective immediately. 

Applicants looking to take advantage of the streamlined filing option will only need to complete and submit an updated Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization, along with the required supporting documentation, and check the box marked "Yes" under "Consent for Disclosure." USCIS will forward the necessary data to the SSA for processing. As a result of this new option, USCIS anticipates that an applicant will receive his or her social security card within two weeks following the approval of the underlying Form I-765.