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:
- Form I-765 completed in clear handwriting and signed.
- Passport-style photos: Two recent color photos with a white background.
- Copy of your identity document: Passport, consular ID, or another photo ID.
- Copy of the document that proves your immigration category: For example, the receipt notice of your asylum application, TPS approval letter, or DACA approval.
- 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.
