IHRC Hosts Legal Services Workshop for Asylum Seekers
International Human Rights Clinic
On March 20, 2026, the Community Outreach Team of UIC Law’s International Human Rights Clinic (IHRC) hosted a brief legal services workshop providing critical assistance to asylum seekers applying for authorization to work legally in the U.S. This event was created in response to recent changes in federal law which imposed an unprecedented non-waivable fee for initial work permit applications for asylum seekers. Work authorization is essential for asylum seekers to avoid poverty, homelessness, and exploitation while their claims are processed. This new fee places an insurmountable financial barrier on individuals who are fleeing violence and arrive to the U.S. with few resources.
Under the supervision of Attorney Alejandra Palacios, IHRC student clinicians and law student volunteers worked together to help ten individuals prepare and electronically file Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization. Additionally, the IHRC secured financial support to cover the cost of the application fees for the participants. Covering the cost of these fees has removed a significant financial barrier that too often forces individuals to choose between an application fee that promotes legal safety and meeting basic survival needs, like food or housing.
Brief legal service workshops also promote student learning by providing hands-on practical experience and other skills necessary for public interest lawyering. Law student volunteers were able to apply theory to real-world cases and explore a new area of law.
“Work authorization is a critical first step toward stability, safety, and dignity for asylum seekers as they navigate this complex and often lengthy legal process” said Nicholas Karpiw, a student clinician on the IHRC Community Outreach Team.
“In a time filled with division, events like these shine light in the darkness, and remind us that there are still people committed to helping others and challenging the flawed thinking that sustains segregation” said Jaime Marban, another student clinician.