ASAP Responds to New Delays in U.S. Work Permit Processing

Amid growing delays in work permit approvals, ASAP takes action to protect the rights of its members and demand government solutions.

Work Permit Delays Are Increasing What’s Going On?

New data reveals that work permit processing for asylum seekers is slowing down, despite USCIS’s efforts to meet legal deadlines.

🔹 April 2025:
USCIS processed 111,787 initial work permit applications.

Only 73.8% were resolved within the legal 30-day timeframe.
By comparison, 86.4% had been processed on time in March.
95.6% were completed within 60 days—but that still leaves thousands waiting.

Waiting over 30 days for your permit?
You’re not alone. This delay impacts many applicants. The good news is that there are steps you can take to try to speed up the process.

ASAP Is Taking Action to Defend Your Rights

The ASAP (Asylum Seeker Advocacy Project) has stepped up its efforts to support asylum seekers amid increasing delays in work permit processing. Here are some of their latest initiatives:

Gained direct access to updated USCIS data on current processing times.
Continues to monitor legislative developments that could impact work permit validity.

Actively defended the 540-day automatic extension, preventing it from being easily repealed.

A Key Win for Migrant Advocacy

Thanks to pressure from ASAP members, businesses, and partner organizations:

As of May 9, the Senate can no longer use fast-track procedures to revoke the 540-day extension.
Although the House of Representatives could still attempt it, the extension remains in effect until further notice.

ASAP remains committed to ensuring that every asylum seeker has fair access to work permits—without unjustified delays and with the legal protections they deserve.

Fuente: ASAP https://www.apoyodeasilo.org/permisos-de-trabajo/#ssn-no-llega