E-filing enables applicants and their attorneys and representatives to complete and submit applications online. Applicants should note that filing applications online will not necessarily expedite the adjudication process. Although e-filing may eventually make USCIS processing more efficient, the program is primarily designed to allow USCIS to create higher quality immigration documents with special biometric security features that will meet new Department of Homeland Security mandates.

WHO IS ELIGIBLE TO PARTICIPATE?

Thousands of applicants will be eligible to take advantage of this new process [categories 274a.12(a) and 274a.12(c)]. However, some applicants will not have the option of filing electronically. For applicants who cannot e-file or for those who choose not to e-file, the USCIS will continue to accept paper applications. Please call our office to discuss your options.

PROCEDURES FOR E-FILING FORM I-765:

1. The required form must be fully and accurately completed. Forms that can be processed by e-filing can be found at https://egov.immigration.gov/ins_efile.
2. The filing fee of $120 may be paid using credit cards issued by Visa, MasterCard, American Express or Discover. Debit cards associated with the accepted credit cards, and electronic funds transfer, are also on-line payment options.
3. A confirmation receipt notice will be generated after the electronic submission. In addition, USCIS will issue an official receipt notice confirming that they are in receipt of the electronic application.
4. After the application has been filed, USCIS may require that initial evidence and/or supporting documentation be mailed to USCIS for consideration in the adjudication of the application. In addition, each applicant must contact the USCIS National Customer Service at 1-800-375-5283 to schedule an appointment with the local Application Support Center ("ASC"). (Please note that some ASCs may not be close to an applicant's residence, requiring the applicant to drive several hours.)
A complete list of ASC locations is available at: http://www.USCIS.gov/graphics/fieldoffices/ascs/index.htm)
At the appointment, the applicant will be required to show the confirmation receipt notice or official receipt. The ASC will collect a digital photograph, signature and fingerprint at the appointment. Please note the employment authorization document will not be issued at the ASC. It will be mailed to the applicant or the attorney or the representative after the USCIS has reviewed the application and the evidence the applicant provided at the ASC.

UPDATED: December 2, 2003