Asylum Clock and Work Authorization in Perris: Understanding the 180-Day Wait
Know when you can apply for work permit while your asylum case is pending
Quick Answer
Asylum seekers can apply for work authorization after their 'asylum clock' reaches 180 days. Understanding what stops or restarts the clock is essential for obtaining legal work permission.
Reviewed for accuracy by
Maria Santos
DOJ Accredited Representative • 15+ years experience
For asylum seekers in Perris waiting for their cases to be decided, work authorization can provide critical support. SoCal Immigration Services helps Arab families understand the asylum clock and apply for work permits with Arabic-speaking support.
What is the Asylum Clock?
• Clock starts when complete asylum application is filed
• Must reach 180 days to apply for work permit
• Certain delays can stop the clock
• USCIS tracks the clock in their system
When Does the Asylum Clock Start?
| Filing Location | Clock Start | Application |
|---|---|---|
| USCIS (Affirmative) | Date application received | Form I-589 |
| Immigration Court (Defensive) | Date filed with court | Form I-589 |
| Referral cases | Date referred to court | After USCIS interview |
| Reopened cases | Date case reopened | Varies by situation |
What Stops the Asylum Clock?
- •Requesting a continuance or postponement
- •Not appearing for scheduled interviews or hearings
- •Failing to submit requested documents on time
- •Requesting additional time to prepare
- •Moving without notifying the court/USCIS
- •Any delay caused by the applicant
What Does NOT Stop the Clock
• Court scheduling backlogs
• USCIS processing delays
• Continuances requested by the government
• Transfers between offices
• Judge-initiated postponements
• Normal processing time
Applying for Work Authorization
- 1Verify Clock Status
Confirm your asylum clock shows 180+ days
- 2Complete Form I-765
File with category (c)(8) for pending asylum
- 3Gather Documents
Asylum receipt, photos, ID, clock evidence
- 4Submit Application
No filing fee for asylum-based EAD
- 5Attend Biometrics
Schedule appointment if required
- 6Receive EAD
Card valid for 2 years (renewable)
Form I-765 Requirements for Asylum EAD
- •Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization
- •Copy of I-589 receipt notice or filing proof
- •Two passport-style photos
- •Copy of government-issued ID
- •Evidence of asylum application filing date
- •No filing fee (fee exempt for category (c)(8))
Processing Time for Asylum EAD
• Standard processing: 90-180 days
• Check current times on USCIS website
• Can request expedited processing if hardship
• 180-day rule: If EAD not processed within 30 days of eligibility, may qualify for interim EAD
• Keep case numbers handy for status checks
Renewing Your Asylum EAD
• File renewal 180 days before expiration
• May qualify for automatic 540-day extension
• Must still have pending asylum case
• Same (c)(8) category for renewal
• Keep working while renewal pending with auto-extension
If Your Clock Shows Wrong Days
• Request clock review from USCIS or court
• Provide evidence of correct filing date
• Document any government-caused delays
• Keep copies of all notices and filings
• Consider consulting an immigration professional
Work Without Authorization Consequences
• May affect asylum case credibility
• Can result in deportation proceedings
• Future immigration benefits may be denied
• Always wait for valid EAD before working
Perris Asylum Work Authorization Services
- •Tracking and verifying asylum clock status
- •Preparing Form I-765 EAD applications
- •Gathering required documentation
- •Expedite requests for financial hardship
- •EAD renewal applications
- •Arabic and English speaking support
FAQFrequently Asked Questions
Q:Can I work while waiting for my asylum decision?
A: Yes, but only after your asylum clock reaches 180 days AND you receive an approved EAD. You cannot work before getting your work permit.
Q:Is there a fee for asylum work permit?
A: No. Asylum-based EAD applications (category c)(8)) are fee exempt. Do not pay any filing fee for this category.
Q:What if my asylum case is denied?
A: If your asylum is denied and you appeal, you may continue working with a valid EAD while the appeal is pending. If no appeal, work authorization typically ends.
Q:Can I change jobs with my asylum EAD?
A: Yes. The asylum EAD allows you to work for any employer in any job. It is not tied to a specific employer or occupation.
Q:How do I check my asylum clock status?
A: You can inquire about your clock through USCIS Contact Center, at your asylum interview, or through your immigration court if in removal proceedings.
Q:What happens to my EAD if I win asylum?
A: If granted asylum, you become an asylee and can apply for an asylee-based EAD (category a)(5)), which has different rules and benefits.
Need Help with Asylum Work Authorization in Perris?
Our team can help you track your asylum clock and apply for work authorization as soon as you're eligible.
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