Do I receive a work permit while waiting on the Waitlist?

The U visa is an important tool for victims of crimes who cooperate with law enforcement, allowing them to have protection and some immigration benefits, including the possibility of working legally in the United States. However, many doubts arise during the process, especially regarding work authorization while the case is still on the waitlist.

If you have already applied for the U visa, it is important to know that, generally, the work authorization – the work permit – is linked to the U visa case. When you submit your application, you can also file Form I-765 to request the Employment Authorization Document (EAD). However, due to the large volume of applications and the existence of a waitlist, the process can take time and there is no guarantee that a new work permit will be automatically granted during this period if the previous one has expired.

In some cases, if you have already received a U visa-related EAD and it is still valid, you may continue working while waiting for the process to move forward. But if the document has expired and your case is still waiting in line, you will need to apply for the renewal of your EAD. It is essential to do so following the official guidelines of the United States Department of Homeland Security (USCIS).

Since individual situations can vary greatly and immigration rules are subject to change, it is critical to closely follow USCIS instructions, comply with United States immigration laws, and seek information from reliable sources. It is also wise to consult specialists or organizations working in the field to understand the specific deadlines and requirements of your case, avoiding scams or campaigns that promise miracle results.

Remember: staying informed and acting according to immigration laws is the best way to ensure that you continue working legally and that your case is handled properly.

Victoria Harper

Editor-in-Chief

Meet the author

Leading journalism and editorial content at Visto n’ Visa, Victoria helps make immigration topics clear, trustworthy, and easy to understand. Her focus is on delivering useful, human, and relevant content for people exploring new paths abroad.