Work Permit (EAD): Work legally in the United States
The Employment Authorization Document (EAD), known as Work Permit, lets you work legally in the U.S. while your immigration case is in process. We help you obtain it, renew it and keep it valid.
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What is the Work Permit (EAD)?
The EAD is the official card that proves to an employer you have legal permission to work in the United States. Without an EAD, employers cannot legally hire you. The EAD is not an immigration status itself. It is a benefit tied to an immigration status you already have (asylum, DACA, adjustment, U Visa, etc.). If you lose the underlying status, the EAD also stops being valid. Generally valid 1 to 2 years, depending on the underlying status.
Who qualifies for an EAD?
Applicants with pending case
- Asylum seekers (after 150 days, per current rules).
- People with adjustment of status (I-485) in process.
- People with pending immigration appeal under certain categories.
Humanitarian program beneficiaries
- DACA approved.
- TPS (Temporary Protected Status).
- U Visa and VAWA beneficiaries.
- T Visa beneficiaries (trafficking victims).
- Humanitarian parole beneficiaries.
Spouses of certain visas
- H-1B spouses (H-4) under certain conditions.
- L-1 spouses (L-2).
- E-1, E-2 spouses (E visa).
Students
- F-1 students with OPT (Optional Practical Training) or CPT (Curricular Practical Training).
How the process works
Confirm the underlying category
We identify exactly under which category you apply and verify the underlying status is current.
Gather documents
Passport, photos, evidence of underlying status (I-485 receipt, DACA approval, TPS decision, U Visa certification, etc.).
File Form I-765
We file the application with the corresponding category code, evidence and fees.
Biometrics (when applicable)
Some categories require new biometrics; others use what's on file.
Approval
If approved, you receive the EAD card by mail. The card has your photo, validity date and authorization category.
How long does the process take?
- First-time applications: 3 to 7 months depending on category.
- Renewals: 3 to 6 months.
- Asylum seekers have specific times per current rules.
- Immigration periodically updates expected times; in consultation we give you the most current time for your category.
How much does representation cost?
After evaluating your circumstances, we will explain the recommended legal strategy, total fees, and available payment-plan options. If the EAD is filed alongside the main immigration case (adjustment, U Visa, asylum), it is generally included within the comprehensive plan at a more efficient combined cost.
EAD renewal
The EAD expires and must be renewed before the expiration date. Recommendations: • File renewal 4 to 6 months before your current EAD expires. • Some categories allow 'automatic extension' of up to 540 days if you file on time. This means your expired EAD is still valid for work while you wait. • Confirm with your employer what additional evidence they need to keep you working during the automatic extension.
Frequently asked questions
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