Filing Form I-765, the Application for Employment Authorization, requires precision and adherence to specific instructions regarding where to send the completed package. The United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) operates multiple lockbox facilities, and submitting your application to the incorrect address can result in significant processing delays or even a return of your filing without review. Understanding the current, official destination for your I-765 is the critical first step in securing your authorization to work in the United States.
Determining the Correct USCIS Address for I-765
The primary factor dictating where you mail your I-765 is your geographical location within the United States, specifically which state or region you reside in. USCIS has established several regional service centers to handle different types of applications, and the I-765 must accompany your primary or secondary immigration application at the designated center for that location. This system ensures that applications are processed alongside your main petition or status adjustment, maintaining administrative efficiency.
Current Processing Addresses as of 2024
As of the current processing framework, most applicants filing Form I-765 in conjunction with another form must send their complete package to one of the following two addresses:
It is vital to confirm that these addresses remain the active submission points, as USCIS occasionally updates its procedures. Always refer to the official USCIS website or the specific instructions page for the most current information before mailing your fee payment and supporting documents.
Special Considerations and Exceptions
While the Kansas and New York addresses handle the majority of filings, certain unique circumstances may require a different destination. For instance, applicants filing I-765 concurrently with a change of status or initial employment authorization application outside the United States might be directed to a different lockbox facility. Additionally, specific categories such as Afghan or Iraqi translators and asylum seekers may have alternate instructions that must be followed precisely to ensure proper adjudication of their request.
Consequences of Incorrect Filing
Submitting your I-765 to an outdated or incorrect address poses a significant risk to your application timeline. If your packet arrives at a facility that does not handle I-765 forms for your region, it will be physically redirected to the correct center. This manual transfer process consumes valuable time that would otherwise be allocated to processing your application. In some scenarios, a severely delayed submission might even be treated as a new filing, forcing you to submit additional documentation and fees, thereby complicating an already intricate immigration process.
Best Practices for a Smooth Submission
To mitigate the risk of delays and ensure your application enters the system smoothly, adhere to a strict verification process before dropping your package in the mail. First, double-check the address on the official USCIS instruction sheet included with the form instructions. Second, utilize trackable mailing methods such as certified mail or courier services with delivery confirmation. This provides you with proof of submission and allows you to monitor the package until it reaches the designated USCIS service center, offering peace of mind during the waiting period.
