Work Permits (EAD)

An Employment Authorization Document (EAD) is a document that grants work authorization in the United States to individuals who do not have automatic employment authorization.

Who Needs an EAD

• Asylum applicants (after 150 days of pending status)
• Spouses of H-1B visa holders (H-4 EAD)
• Applicants for Adjustment of Status (I-485 pending)
• TPS holders
• DACA recipients
• F-1 students on OPT/CPT

The EAD is issued as a plastic card with a photo and an expiration date.

To obtain an EAD, you must file Form I-765 with USCIS.

Required Documents

• Completed Form I-765
• Copy of passport and visa
• Copy of Form I-94
• Two passport-style photos
• Evidence of eligibility basis (I-485 receipt notice, asylum approval, etc.)

Filing Fee

The fee is $520 (or $470 when filing online) (as of 2026). When filed together with an I-485, the I-765 fee is typically included. For asylum seekers, the previous EAD fee exemption no longer applies automatically: a 2025 federal law (HR-1) changed the rules, and certain provisions are being challenged in court, causing some fees to be temporarily suspended. Verify the exact amount and applicability to your situation at uscis.gov or with an immigration attorney at the time of filing.

I-765 processing times vary, but typically range from 3 to 6 months.

Automatic Extension

In certain categories, the EAD is automatically extended for 180 days when a renewal application is filed before the current EAD expires. Check whether your category qualifies for automatic extension.

What to Do If There Is a Delay

• Submit an inquiry to USCIS through your online account
• Contact your congressional representative (congressional inquiry)
• File a mandamus lawsuit if the delay exceeds a reasonable timeframe