Applying for Work Authorization
Applying for Work Authorization
Embedded Files
To apply for a U.S. work permit (Employment Authorization Document or EAD), you must first determine your eligibility, complete and submit Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization. You will need to provide supporting documents, pay the filing fee (unless eligible for a waiver), and attend a biometrics appointment for fingerprints and a photograph. The entire application process is managed by U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), and you can file online via a myUSCIS account or by mail.
To apply for a U.S. work permit (Employment Authorization Document or EAD), you must first determine your eligibility, complete and submit Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization. You will need to provide supporting documents, pay the filing fee (unless eligible for a waiver), and attend a biometrics appointment for fingerprints and a photograph. The entire application process is managed by U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), and you can file online via a myUSCIS account or by mail.
1. Determine Your Eligibility
1. Determine Your Eligibility
Your eligibility for a work permit is tied to your immigration status or pending immigration application.
You must be authorized for work based on a specific immigration category, such as having a pending asylum application or Temporary Protected Status (TPS).
2. Complete Form I-765
2. Complete Form I-765
You must accurately complete Form I-765, which is available for free on the USCIS website.
When completing the form, you must select the correct eligibility category code that applies to your situation.
3. Gather Supporting Documents
3. Gather Supporting Documents
Along with Form I-765, you need to submit supporting documents, which can include photographs and evidence of your immigration status.
An electronic document checklist is provided when you apply online to help ensure you have all the necessary items.
4. Pay the Filing Fee
4. Pay the Filing Fee
Most applicants must pay a filing fee.
You can check the latest fee information on the USCIS website.
If you cannot afford the fee, you may be eligible for a fee waiver, which requires a separate application process and prevents you from filing online.
5. Submit Your Application
5. Submit Your Application
Online: You can file Form I-765 online by creating or logging into a myUSCIS account.
By Mail: You can also submit a paper version of Form I-765 by mail to the appropriate USCIS address for your category.
6. Attend Your Biometrics Appointment
6. Attend Your Biometrics Appointment
After submitting your application, you will typically receive a notice for a biometrics appointment.
At this appointment, your fingerprints and photograph will be taken.
7. Await a Decision
7. Await a Decision
Once your application is complete, including your biometrics appointment, USCIS will process it.
Processing times vary, so it is recommended to apply well in advance of when you need your work permit.
You can check the status of your application online using the receipt number provided by USCIS.
Page updated
Google Sites
Report abuse