Alert: We recently updated the filing location for Special Immigrant Juveniles filing Form I-360, Petition for Amerasian, Widow(er), or Special Immigrant, or Form I-485, Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status.
We recently updated the filing location for Special Immigrant Juveniles filing Form I-360, Petition for Amerasian, Widow(er), or Special Immigrant, or Form I-485, Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status.
Petitioners previously filed both forms at the Chicago lockbox. Petitioners will now file at the lockbox associated with where they live.
Visit our USCIS Lockbox Filing Locations Chart for Certain Family-Based Forms page for the filing location based on where you live.
Alert: To improve efficiency and reduce Form I-765 processing times for Form I-485 applicants, USCIS may decouple Forms I-765 from Forms I-131 filed at the same time.
To improve efficiency and reduce Form I-765 processing times for Form I-485 applicants, USCIS may decouple Forms I-765 from Forms I-131 filed at the same time. Effective Feb. 1, 2022, when possible, we will adjudicate an applicant's Form I-765 first. If we approve it, we will issue an Employment Authorization Document without any notation about advanced parole. We will adjudicate the Form I-131 separately and if we approve it, we will issue an advance parole document.
Alert: As of April 1, 2022, we will no longer accept a single, combined fee payment for the filing of Form I-539, Application to Extend/Change Nonimmigrant Status; Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization; or Form I-824, Application for Action on an Approved Application or Petition, together with a Form I-129, Petition for a Nonimmigrant Worker.
As of April 1, 2022, we will no longer accept a single, combined fee payment for the filing of Form I-539, Application to Extend/Change Nonimmigrant Status; Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization; or Form I-824, Application for Action on an Approved Application or Petition, together with a Form I-129, Petition for a Nonimmigrant Worker.
Separate payments are required for each of these forms. If the payments for these forms are combined, we will reject the entire package.
We are transitioning to electronically processing immigration benefit requests. As we complete this transition, we will be using multiple systems to receive and process various types of immigration benefit requests. Because the Form I-129 and related applications are not all processed in the same system, we require a separate payment instrument for each of these forms.
We acknowledge that using multiple checks or payments for the Form I-129 and related applications is more burdensome than using one payment. We are always analyzing our forms, practices, and policies to streamline filing and reduce, minimize, and control burdens to submit requests. However, we believe that the advantages of electronic processing to both the agency and to the public outweigh the minor inconvenience of submitting individual fee payments.
Alert Afghan Parolee: If you are an Afghan national paroled into the United States and you are applying for employment authorization, you will need a Social Security number (SSN) to work in the United States.
If you are an Afghan national paroled into the United States and you are applying for employment authorization, you will need a Social Securitynumber (SSN) to work in the United States. Your SSN allows employers to report your earnings to the U.S. government.
We encourage you to apply for an SSN (or replacement SSN card) using Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization, and following the form instructions. If you do not request an SSN in Part 2 (Items 14-17.b) of your Form I-765, you must make an appointment to visit a Social Security Administration office in person to apply for your SSN after you receive your Employment Authorization Document (Form I-766). For more information, see Apply for Your Social Security Number While Applying for Your Work Permit (PDF, 400.77 KB).
Certain noncitizens who are in the United States may file Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization, to request an Employment Authorization Document (EAD). Other noncitizens whose immigration status authorizes them to work in the United States without restrictions may also use Form I-765 to apply for an EAD that shows such authorization.
File Online
What This Form Can Help You Do
Applying for an Employment Authorization Document
Form Details
Forms and Document Downloads
Form I-765 (PDF, 452.02 KB)
Instructions for Form I-765 (PDF, 751.16 KB)
Form I-765 Worksheet (PDF, 243.14 KB)
Edition Date
10/31/22. Starting Jan. 3, 2023, we will only accept the 10/31/22 edition. Until then, you can also use the 07/26/22, 05/31/22, and 08/25/20 editions. You can find the edition date at the bottom of the page on the form and instructions.
Dates are listed in mm/dd/yy format.
If you need help downloading and printing forms, read our instructions.
Where to File
The filing address depends on your reason for applying and the eligibility category you entered in Question 27. Please check the filing locations for Form I-765 for a list of addresses. If you are a replacing a card that has incorrect information, please see the Special Instructions provided below. If you file at a lockbox, readourfiling tips.
Don’tforget to sign your form.We will reject and return any unsigned form.
Filing Fee
$410.
Youmay be exempt from paying the filing fee. See the form instructions for more information.
You must pay an $85 biometric services fee if you arefilingwith one of the following eligibility categories:
- (c)(35) A beneficiary of an approved employment-based immigrant petition and you are facing compelling circumstances;
- (c)(36) A spouse or unmarried dependent child of a beneficiary of an employment-based immigrant petition who is facing compelling circumstances; or
- (c)(37) An applicantfor Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands (CNMI)long-termresidentstatus.
For (c)(33) filers: There is no fee waiver. There arefee exemptionsavailable only in limited circumstances. Please see DACA Filing Tips page concerning fee submissions for DACA-related Form I-765 and Form I-821D.
For (c)(37)filers:There is no fee waiver for your Form I-765 base fee ($410) or biometric fee ($85).
There is no biometric services fee for any other eligibility category.
There is no filing fee or biometric services fee for the initial Form I-765 filed by current or former service members who were paroled into the United States under the Immigrant Military Members and Veterans Initiative (IMMVI). Please write "IMMVI" at the top of Form I-765 to obtain the fee exemption and submit documentation that supports current or former military service such as the Certificate of Release or Discharge from Active Duty (DD Form 214), National Guard Report of Separation and Record of Service (NGB Form 22), or other official service or discharge document.
You may pay the fee with a money order, personal check, or cashier’s check. When filing at a USCIS lockbox, you may alsopay by credit cardusing Form G-1450, Authorization for Credit Card Transactions. If you pay by check, you must make your check payable to the U.S. Department of Homeland Security.
When you send a payment, you agree to pay for a government service. Filing and biometric services fees are final and non-refundable, regardless of any action we take on your application, petition, or request, or if you withdraw your request. Use our Fee Calculator to help determine your fee.
Checklist of Required Initial Evidence (for informational purposes only)
View thechecklistof required initial evidence.
Special Instructions
Replacing a Card That Has Incorrect Information
- If the card we issued to you contains incorrect information thatis not dueto our error, you must use thefiling locations for Form I-765associated with your eligibility category to submit your form and filing fee.
- If the card we issued to you contains incorrect information that is due to our error, you do not need to file a new Form I-765 and filing fee. Instead, you must submit a letter explaining the error and evidence to show what the correct information should be, along with the card containing the error, to the service center or National Benefits Center that approved your most recent Form I-765. Your approval notice will indicate which location approved your application. Please check the filing locations for Form I-765 under the heading “Replacement for Card Error” for a list of addresses.
Liberian Refugee Immigration Fairness (LRIF) Applicants:If you are filing Form I-765 as an adjustment of status applicant based on LRIF, you should write “(c)(9)” as your eligibility category inPart 2,Item Number 27on your Form I-765.See ourLRIF pagefor more information on adjustment of status based on LRIF.
Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivalsrequestors: To be considered for DACA, you must file:
- Form I-821D, Consideration of Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals;
- Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization;
- Form I-765 Worksheet; and
- The correct fees.
U Petitioners: If you are a principal U nonimmigrant petitioner, you are authorized to work based on your status. After we approve the underlying petition for U nonimmigrant status, we will issue you an Employment Authorization Document (EAD). This means you will not need to file Form I-765.
If you are a derivative family member residing inside the United States, you are also authorized to work based on your status. After we approve the underlying petition for derivative U nonimmigrant status, we will not issue you an EAD. This means you will need to file Form I-765.
We can only issue EADsfor principals and derivatives after we approve the underlying U nonimmigrant status petition, regardless of when you file Form I-765.
If you live in the U.S., you may receive employment authorization and deferred action if you have a pending bona fide petition and meet certain discretionary standards. We will issue a notice if you need to file a Form I-765 for employment authorization associated with a bona fide determination.
If the statutory cap is reached in a fiscal year and we use the waiting list process described at 8 CFR 214.14(d)(2), petitioners for U nonimmigrant status and derivatives in the United States can apply for employment authorization using Form I-765 based on deferred action. We can only approve an application for employment authorization based on deferred action after DHS has deferred action in your case, regardless of when you file Form I-765.
Asylum Applicants: Please refer to our Asylum page for more information, including information about the effect of applicant-caused delays on your Form I-765 adjudication.
E-Notification: Toreceive a text message and/or emailwhen we accept your Form I-765, completeForm G-1145, E-Notification of Application/Petition Acceptance, and attach it to the front of the first application in the package.
Related Links
- Card Delivery Tracking
- Apply for your Social Security Number While Applying for Your Work Permit (PDF, 400.77 KB)
- Filing Form I-765 with Other Forms
- Employment Authorization in Compelling Circumstances
- Automatic Employment Authorization Document (EAD) Extension
- Lockbox Filing Tips
- Direct Filing Addresses for Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization
- Form I-765V, Application for Employment Authorization for Abused Nonimmigrant Spouse
DACA
- Consideration of Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals Fee Exemption Guidance
Asylum
- The 180-Day Asylum EAD Clock Notice (PDF, 612.26 KB)
- Rosario Class Action
Optional Checklists
- Optional Checklist for Form I-765 (c)(3)(B) Filings
- Optional Checklist for Form I-765 (c)(3)(C) Filings
- Optional Checklist for Form I-765 (c)(8) Filings
- Optional Checklist for Form I-765 (c)(9) Filings
FAQs
How do you answer are you legally authorized to work in the US? ›
Typically, individuals are legally authorized to work in a country if they are citizens of that country, or if they have other status that grants them permission to work. If you're currently legally permitted to work in the country, select Yes. Otherwise, select No.
How long does it take to get EAD 2022? ›You Receive Your EAD Card
If you also submitted Form I-765 and Form I-131 as a part of your adjustment of the status package, you will be receiving an Employment Authorization Document (EAD). Your EAD card should arrive 12 to 16 weeks after filing.
Work Authorization. If your name does not sound local, your work experience and/or education are from overseas, clarify your work authorization status. If you are authorized to work in the US for any employer, state it at the top of your resume (before your work experience): “Authorized to work for any US employer”.
Will USCIS speed up 2022? ›Applications for work permits saw an increase of processing times from 3.2 months in FY 2020 to 4.3 months in FY 2022.
What does it mean when someone asks if you are legally authorized to work? ›An individual's work authorization, or employment eligibility, refers to his or her legal right to work in the United States. U.S. citizens, born or naturalized, are always authorized to work in the United States, while foreign citizens may be authorized if they have an immigration status that allows them to work.
Can an employer ask if you are authorized to work in the US? ›Q. May I ask applicants for citizenship or immigration status information? A. Generally, an employer may ask job applicants if they have the legal right to work in the United States and if they will need sponsorship for an employment visa.
How can I speed up my EAD? ›Call the USCIS Contact Center at 800-375-5283 (TTY 800-767-1833) to request expedited processing based on your position as a healthcare worker or a childcare worker with an EAD application that meets the above criteria.
Which USCIS office is the fastest? ›The most efficient U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services field office is also stated to be in Cleveland. The USCIS office efficiency is reflected in the highest backlog completion of 71.3%, and the nation's shortest average processing time, which is only four months. Almost nobody waited longer than 12.3 months.
Can I travel outside US while waiting for EAD? ›In general, travel is not recommended when an individual has a request pending with USCIS. This is because being outside the U.S. during the processing of a benefit could be considered abandonment of your petition.
What can employers ask about work authorization? ›The question must focus on the job applicant's ability to work legally in the United States. The question should not ask about the applicant's immigration status or citizenship. Therefore, an employer may ask: Are you authorized to work lawfully in the United States for [insert company name]?
How do you describe work authorization status? ›
Work authorization means that you are lawfully permitted to work in the United States. Regardless of your current citizenship, your work authorization status with your Employment Authorization Document allows you to become a U.S. employee.
What are the 3 most important things you are looking for in your next opportunity? ›“Three things that I'm looking for in my next job are a collaborative, team-focused culture, opportunities to learn and grow my skills from a technical standpoint, and a chance to learn more leadership skills over time.
What is the slowest USCIS office? ›On the bottom of the index is the field office in St. Paul, Minnesota, with a typical processing time of 15.1 months and some immigrants waiting nearly 2 years (23.5 months).
How many cases does USCIS process a day? ›On an average day we: Adjudicate more than 28,000 requests for various immigration benefits. Process 3,100 applications to sponsor relatives and future spouses. Analyze nearly 600 tips, leads, cases and detections for potential fraud, public safety and national security concerns.
How long does it take to get green card after EAD 2022? ›Once you receive your work permit from USCIS, it could take anywhere from 5 – 43 months to receive your Green Card depending on your eligibility category and which USCIS office or service center handles your petition.
Can you hire someone who is not authorized to work? ›Remember, it is against federal law to knowingly employ someone who is not authorized to work in the U.S. However, just like everyone else, illegal aliens who work in the United States are subject to U.S. taxes.
How long does it take to get work authorization? ›In general, it takes about 150–210 days (5–7 months) for U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) to process Form I-765. Previously, USCIS processed work permit applications within 90 days, but a growing backlog has caused additional delays.
How long does it take for EAD to be approved? ›From point of approval, USCIS says it can take 30 days beyond to receive your EAD card; however, most cards arrive within 7-10 days after approval. In total, it is likely for your OPT application to take 90-120 days. You may establish an account with USCIS (USCIS Account).
How does USCIS know about unauthorized employment? ›You may be wondering how will the USCIS know that you're working without authorization. In many cases, they will know through your tax returns, resume, or visa support letter. In addition, the government is increasingly searching the internet for evidence of unauthorized employment.
Can you show proof that you are legally authorized to work in the country this position is based? ›In order for a non-citizen to work in the United States, he must prove to his employer that he is legally authorized to work here. A green card, work permit document or work-related visa serves as necessary proof for a non-citizen.
What questions are not allowed on a job application? ›
What commonly asked questions should not be on an employment application? An employment application should not include any questions that will produce a response that would indicate an applicant's protected class such as age, race, national origin, disability, etc.
Why EAD is taking so long? ›Issuance of certain Employment Authorization Documents (Form I-766, EADs) may be delayed due to the COVID-19 global pandemic.
Can I start working while waiting for EAD card? ›In general, a pending EAD application does not provide permission to work, so persons with a pending EAD application cannot work in the USA. The only exception to this rule is for F-1 Students who are STEM-OPT eligible.
How do I know if my EAD is approved? ›Post-Filing an EAD
It can take a few months to get the EAD approved. Using the receipt number, you can track your case status. Alternatively, you can also call the National Customer Service Center at (800) 375-5283. Once your petition is approved, USCIS will send you a plastic EAD card.
Although some cases may take longer, USCIS field offices and service centers try to adjudicate motions within 90 days. The AAO strives to complete its review of motions within 180 days from the time it receives a complete case file.
Has USCIS processing time improved? ›Improvement of Processing Times
USCIS processing times for certain petitions and applications significantly lengthened during the pandemic. Processing times for applications for I-765 EAD cards had stretched to over a year; these had routinely been processed in under 3 months before the start of the pandemic.
USCIS field offices do not allow walk-ins. You must have an appointment to visit an office. Field offices in the U.S. and its territories provide: Interviews for all non-asylum cases (for example, getting a Green Card);
What can you do while waiting for EAD? ›...
Practice English (If Necessary)
- Websites like Duolingo or Babbel.
- Watching English TV programs or listening to the radio/news programs.
- Speaking with family members and friends.
- Enrolling in English classes at a local community college.
With an approved OPT application and your EAD card, you may travel internationally, and request entry into the U.S in F-1 status when you return, both before or after the start date on your EAD card.
Can I use my EAD to fly? ›Yes, travel within the US with a valid EAD card is possible. However, the current atmosphere of DHS enforcement means that you could be sent to secondary inspection for confirmation through the database as to the status of your application.
Can you show proof of employment authorization? ›
For a non-citizen to work in the U.S. they will need to provide their employer with proof that they are legally allowed to work here. A green card, employment authorization document or an employment related visa will serve as the necessary proof for a non-citizen.
Do employers ask for EAD card? ›Form I-9 and Your Employer
One of these documents is, of course, the EAD. You should bear in mind that employers need to see your original EAD card, or a Form I-766, to make sure you have employment authorization. The permit should be shown within 3 days of your employment.
To be eligible to apply for an EAD, you must be: An application for adjustment of status to permanent resident. A spouse of an E1 treaty trader, E2 treaty investor or L1 intra-company transferee. A spouse or a child of a J1 exchange visitor.
How do I answer visa status questions? ›How should I answer the visa question? You should answer the question in an honest, direct, clear, concise and confident manner. If you are nervous or unsure, the employer will pick up on these signals and may not be able to stay focused on your skills and qualifications. Avoid excessive detail.
What is the difference between work permit and work authorization? ›An Employment Authorization Document is a work permit that allows the holder to work legally in America. US citizens do not require work permits to work in the United States. Similarly a lawful permanent resident does not require a work permit to work in the United States.
Why should we hire you answer best? ›For starters, I have all the skills and experience listed in the job description, and I'm confident that I can make an immediate impact on your company. It's not just my background in leading successful projects for Fortune 500 companies, but also my passion for the industry that drives me to succeed.
What are the three words that best describe you *? ›- "I'd describe myself as driven, communicative and reliable. ...
- "I'm organized, patient and helpful. ...
- "First, I'm passionate. ...
- "The first word I'd use to describe myself is approachable. ...
- "Enthusiastic, confident and friendly are three words I'd pick to describe myself.
I am very honest. When I feel that my workload is too large to accept another task, or if I don't understand something, I always let my supervisor know. My people skills are my greatest strength. I find it easy to connect with almost anyone, and I often know how to empathize with others in an appropriate way.
Will USCIS speed up 2022? ›Applications for work permits saw an increase of processing times from 3.2 months in FY 2020 to 4.3 months in FY 2022.
How long does EAD take after Biometrics 2022? ›How Long Does it Take to Get Employment Authorization Card After Biometrics? After biometrics, you should receive a decision about work authorization within 90 days (or 30 days for initial Asylum applicants) from the receipt date on your Form I-765.
Can I sue USCIS for taking too long? ›
Yes. If there have been unreasonable delays in your case, you may file a complaint against the Immigration Service in the Federal Court, and the Court can force the Immigration Service to make a decision in your case.
Which Uscis office is the fastest? ›The most efficient U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services field office is also stated to be in Cleveland. The USCIS office efficiency is reflected in the highest backlog completion of 71.3%, and the nation's shortest average processing time, which is only four months. Almost nobody waited longer than 12.3 months.
What are the chances of winning an immigration case? ›They fear a similar outcome is pre-ordained. This view is far from the truth. Even if you are not a permanent resident, do not fall into the trap of assuming defeat is automatic. Yes, the reality is once served a Notice To Appear at immigration court, the odds of winning are far less than 50-50.
Does immigration check your Facebook? ›Green Card Basics: Do USCIS Officials Look at My Social Media Accounts? The short answer is no, USCIS officials will no longer look through your social media accounts before they approve your green card petition.
Does EAD approval Mean green card will be approved? ›Unlike the green card-based EAD, the regular EAD refers to a nonimmigrant work permit and is not tied to a green card application process. There are three main categories that would make you eligible for this employment authorization card.
What happens after EAD is approved? ›If USCIS approves your application, you will receive two documents – your Employment Authorization Document (EAD), also known as the “USCIS I-766 card” or “work permit”, and in another envelope your SSN card. We will mail your SSN card to the address you listed on your I-765 application.
Can I travel outside U.S. while waiting for EAD? ›In general, travel is not recommended when an individual has a request pending with USCIS. This is because being outside the U.S. during the processing of a benefit could be considered abandonment of your petition.
› immigration-support › ca... ›Can I work while my Green Card application is processing ...
Employment Authorization Documents delayed at USCIS
How long does it take for USCIS to issue an EAD (work authorization ...
What is the average processing time for EAD for C9 Category - with Pending I-485 ? Based on current processing times, it can take anywhere from 3 to 7 months.
How long is EAD taking now? ›I-765 Processing Time
Obtaining an EAD is simpler and quicker than applying for a visa or green card. The I-765 processing time is about 6 months, though it may vary based on the service center.
How long does EAD take after Biometrics 2022? ›
How Long Does it Take to Get Employment Authorization Card After Biometrics? After biometrics, you should receive a decision about work authorization within 90 days (or 30 days for initial Asylum applicants) from the receipt date on your Form I-765.
How long does EAD take to be approved? ›From point of approval, USCIS says it can take 30 days beyond to receive your EAD card; however, most cards arrive within 7-10 days after approval. In total, it is likely for your OPT application to take 90-120 days. You may establish an account with USCIS (USCIS Account).
Can I work if EAD is pending? ›In general, a pending EAD application does not provide permission to work, so persons with a pending EAD application cannot work in the USA. The only exception to this rule is for F-1 Students who are STEM-OPT eligible.
Why EAD is taking so long? ›Issuance of certain Employment Authorization Documents (Form I-766, EADs) may be delayed due to the COVID-19 global pandemic.
How do I know if my EAD is approved? ›Post-Filing an EAD
It can take a few months to get the EAD approved. Using the receipt number, you can track your case status. Alternatively, you can also call the National Customer Service Center at (800) 375-5283. Once your petition is approved, USCIS will send you a plastic EAD card.
USCIS committed to improving processing times for petitions and key documents back in March 2022, which we reported on in detail here. Specifically, USCIS announced the following goals: I-765 Employment Authorization Document (EAD): within three months.
What happens after EAD is approved? ›If USCIS approves your application, you will receive two documents – your Employment Authorization Document (EAD), also known as the “USCIS I-766 card” or “work permit”, and in another envelope your SSN card. We will mail your SSN card to the address you listed on your I-765 application.
How long can you stay on EAD without job? ›You must be gainfully employed by the 90th day after the start date listed on your EAD Card. The total number of days allowed for unemployment while on post-completion OPT is a maximum of 90 days.
How long does it take USCIS to make a decision after biometrics? ›Once your fingerprints are taken, it generally takes 30-45 days for the FBI clearances to appear in USCIS's system. The clearances are valid for 15 months from the date of the clearance. In some cases, applicants might need to be re-fingerprinted.
Does EAD approval Mean Green Card will be approved? ›When USCIS approves your application for permanent residency and issues a Green Card, your EAD will automatically expire. Permanent residents do not need employment authorization, as their Green Card serves as proof of their authorization to work in the United States.
How long after fingerprints do you get EAD? ›
How Long Does It Take to Get an Employment Authorization Card After Biometrics? Immigration law states that applicants should receive a notice about their work authorization within 90 days.
Can you work with EAD approval notice? ›No. Even though you've received approval for your EAD application, it's not enough to start working. It doesn't prove anything to your employer, and it's better to wait for your actual card before you start working.