I-765 Work Permit: How to Apply and Renew It in New Jersey

What is the EAD (Employment Authorization Document) Work Permit?

The Employment Authorization Document (EAD), commonly known as a work permit, is a document issued by U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) that authorizes a person to work legally in the country for a specified period.

Without this document, working in the United States without a green card or citizenship can have serious legal consequences for both the worker and the employer.

Who can apply for Form I-765?

Not everyone can apply for an EAD. USCIS grants work permits to people in specific immigration categories, including:

• Asylum applicants: People with a pending asylum request before USCIS or an immigration judge.
• TPS holders (Temporary Protected Status): Nationals of countries designated by the U.S. Government.
• Spouses of certain visa holders: Such as spouses of H-1B holders with approved extensions or L-2 visas.
• DACA recipients: Young people covered under Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals.
• Adjustment of status applicants (Green Card): People who have filed Form I-485.
• Parolees: Including certain humanitarian programs.

Documents needed to file the I-765

To properly prepare your application you will need to gather the following documents:

1. Form I-765 completed in clear handwriting and signed.
2. Passport-style photos: Two recent color photos with a white background.
3. Copy of your identity document: Passport, consular ID, or another photo ID.
4. Copy of the document that proves your immigration category: For example, the receipt notice of your asylum application, TPS approval letter, or DACA approval.
5. Filing fee payment: The cost of Form I-765 varies by category. Check the current amount on the official USCIS website at uscis.gov.

How to file Form I-765?

You can file Form I-765 in two ways:

• By mail: Send the complete package (form, photos, documents, and check or money order) to the USCIS service center corresponding to your state.
• Online (myUSCIS): Some categories allow you to file the I-765 electronically through the myUSCIS.gov portal.

How long does USCIS take to process the I-765?

Processing times vary constantly. You can check updated times on the official USCIS processing times page. Currently, times typically range from 3 to 8 months depending on the category and the service center's workload.

How to renew the work permit?

The renewal process is very similar to the initial application. You must file a new Form I-765 along with:

• Copy of your previous EAD (both sides).
• Updated documents proving you are still eligible in your immigration category.
• New passport-style photos.
• Filing fee payment (if applicable).

USCIS recommends filing the renewal at least 180 days (6 months) before your current EAD expires to avoid a gap in your work authorization.

How can MAPA Business help you?

At MAPA Business & Financial Services LLC we help you prepare and organize the documents needed to file Form I-765 with USCIS. We are not immigration attorneys, but we can guide you and help you gather your documentation correctly to reduce errors that delay your case. Contact us for a free initial consultation.