🇺🇸 Employment Authorization Document (EAD) – Apply Process, Eligibility, Required Documents & Benefits
🔹 What is an EAD (Employment Authorization Document)?
The EAD, or Work Permit, is a government-issued card from USCIS (U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services) that allows certain non-citizens to legally work in the USA.
It’s a photo ID card valid for a specific time period and is proof of employment eligibility.
✅ Who is Eligible to Apply for an EAD?
You can apply for an EAD if you fall into one of these categories:
Adjustment of Status applicants (Form I-485 pending)
H4 visa holders (with approved I-140 or under H4 EAD rule)
F1 students (with OPT or severe economic hardship)
Asylees and asylum seekers
J2 visa holders (dependents of J1 visa holders)
DACA recipients (Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals)
TPS (Temporary Protected Status) holders
Other visa categories with EAD eligibility (e.g., L2, K1, V visa dependents)
📄 Required Documents to Apply for EAD
You’ll typically need the following:
| Document | Notes |
|---|---|
| Form I-765 | Application for Employment Authorization |
| Passport-size photos (2) | As per USCIS specifications |
| Copy of current immigration document | e.g., I-94, visa, EAD if renewing |
| Government-issued ID | Passport, visa, or national ID |
| Previous EAD (if applicable) | For renewals or replacements |
| Proof of eligibility category | e.g., I-20 for F1 OPT, I-797 for H4, asylum notice, etc. |
| Filing fee | Varies ($410 for most categories, check USCIS website) |
📝 How to Apply for EAD – Step-by-Step Process
✅ Step 1: Complete Form I-765
Download from USCIS: https://www.uscis.gov/i-765
Choose the correct eligibility category (e.g., (c)(3)(B) for OPT, (c)(26) for H4)
✅ Step 2: Prepare Supporting Documents
Include ID proof, visa, prior EAD (if any), category proof, photos, etc.
✅ Step 3: Pay the Filing Fee
Standard fee: $410
If biometric is required: additional $85
Check eligibility for fee waiver (Form I-912)
✅ Step 4: Mail the Application Package
Send to the correct USCIS lockbox address (depends on your category and location)
✅ Step 5: Wait for Receipt and Biometrics (if required)
You’ll get a Receipt Notice (I-797C)
Some applicants are scheduled for biometric appointment
✅ Step 6: Get EAD Approval
Processing time: 1–6 months (varies by category and USCIS workload)
Once approved, EAD card is mailed to your address
🎯 Benefits and Uses of EAD
Legally work for any employer in the USA
Can work full-time or part-time
Use as a valid photo ID
Helps in building work experience and credit
Required for applying Social Security Number (SSN) if not already obtained
⚠️ Important Notes
You cannot start work until you receive your approved EAD card
Keep track of expiration – apply for renewal 180 days before expiry
EAD does not grant immigration status – it only allows employment
🇺🇸 EAD Card USA – Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
❓1. What is an EAD?
Answer:
An EAD (Employment Authorization Document) is a card issued by USCIS that allows certain non-citizens to legally work in the USA for a specified period.
❓2. Who needs an EAD?
Answer:
You need an EAD if you are a non-immigrant visa holder or applicant (such as F1, H4, J2, asylum seeker, etc.) who wants to work in the U.S. legally and are not automatically authorized by your visa status.
❓3. What is the validity of the EAD card?
Answer:
EAD validity depends on the visa category. It is usually issued for 1 year, but it can be shorter or longer based on your immigration status.
❓4. How long does it take to get an EAD card?
Answer:
USCIS typically takes 1 to 6 months to process EAD applications, depending on your visa type and current workload.
❓5. Can I work while my EAD application is pending?
Answer:
No. You can only work after receiving the approved EAD card in hand.
❓6. What is the fee for EAD application?
Answer:
The standard filing fee is $410. If biometrics are required, an additional $85 may apply.
❓7. Can I renew my EAD?
Answer:
Yes. You should apply for renewal at least 180 days before the current EAD expires using Form I-765.
❓8. Can I travel outside the U.S. with an EAD?
Answer:
EAD is not a travel document. You need Advance Parole (Form I-131) or a valid visa to return to the U.S. after travel.
❓9. Does the EAD give me permanent residency?
Answer:
No. EAD is not a Green Card. It only authorizes temporary employment.
❓10. What happens if my EAD expires?
Answer:
Once expired, you must stop working immediately unless an automatic extension applies (check your category). Apply for renewal in advance.