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When refugees and/or asylees gain legal admission to the United States one of their priorities is to obtain employment. Refugees/asylees want to become productive members of their new home, support their families and assist relatives left behind in their homeland or in refugee camps. Securing a good job in the US can be challenging, especially for new immigrants. Often a refugee or asylee may experience difficulties when applying for a job because the employer may unknowingly request more documents than is necessary under the law. The following information will explain your rights and provide information on how to seek help if you feel you are being discriminated against in your attempt to find a job. Refugees and Asylees in the United States have the right to work . When you start a new job, your employer is required to verify your work eligibility by looking at your documents and completing the I-9 form. Some employers accidentally discriminate against refugees and asylees because they do not understand the law. It is a good idea to protect yourself by knowing your rights. The I-9 Form requires you to demonstrate 1) your identity, and that 2) you are legally authorized to work in the United States The important thing to know is that you can choose which documents to show your employer. Your employer cannot demand that you show them a “green card” or any other type of document. If you do not have a green card yet, you may show your employer your • State issued Driver's License or ID card to demonstrate your identity • Social Security Card to demonstrate your employment eligibility. The Social Security Card must not have written on it: “not valid for employment without INS approval.” If it does, you must also show an INS document such as an I-94 with refugee or asylee stamped on it. It is recommended that you use these documents as they will not expire. If you show your employer an Employment Authorization Document (EAD), you will need to re-verify the I-9 Form when the EAD expires. You do not need to show the EAD again. You can choose to show your Social Security Card and ID Card. If you experience problems with your employer regarding your documents, you can get help. Please contact • International Rescue Committee at 619-641-7510, ext. 249 or sharond@theirc.org or • Office of Special Counsel for Immigration Related Unfair Employment Practices at 1-800-255-7688.
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