Whether you’re applying for asylum, waiting for your green card, or currently in the U.S. on another visa, you’ll need to apply for authorization to work in the United States. You will need to file an application to receive an Employment Authorization Document (EAD). Form I-765 is your path to getting an EAD, and an EAD lets you legally work in the U.S. It also serves as legal identification so that you can fly domestically within the U.S.
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Natalia Darancou was born and raised in El Paso, Texas to Mexican-American parents and is a native Spanish speaker.
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An EAD is an employment authorization document, often referred to as a “work permit.” It’s proof that you’re legally allowed to work in the U.S. for a specific time.
It also allows more freedom for workers than some other work visa programs, as they aren’t tied to a particular employer.
Many immigrants and visa holders need this document while waiting for their green card or another status change. Think of it as a legal permission slip to earn a paycheck in the U.S.
Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization, is the application form that needs to be submitted to request an EAD. This form must be filed with USCIS to get permission to work in the U.S. or any of its territories.
There are several different categories of immigrants who can file the I-765 form, including:
You will need to file Form I-765 correctly and include the proper documents for your category. Your lawyer can submit this for you to ensure that it is timely and correctly filed.
You can file Form I-765 online through the USCIS website. It’s faster, easier to track, and lets you upload documents directly. Whether you are renewing an existing EAD or applying for the first time, you will need to submit Form I-765. If you’re renewing an EAD, you’re required to apply for your renewal within the 180-day window before its expiration. You cannot apply early, but you should apply as early as possible.
You’ll need to supply USCIS with:
Make sure all your supporting documents are clear, readable, and in the correct format. If you have questions about what to include, one of our immigration attorneys can advise you or even help you create a checklist based on your specific case.
Once your application has been received, USCIS will issue you a receipt. This receipt is your proof that your case is being reviewed. If you applied for a renewal, your receipt serves as an extension of your current EAD while your renewal request is being processed. It is also your reference number so you can track the progress of your I-765 application in USCIS’s online system.
The answer to this depends on your eligibility category and the USICS office location where your application is being processed. While many I-765 forms are approved within a few months, some cases may take up to a year. USCIS posts estimated timelines online, but these can change.
If you’re submitting an I-765 application for an EAD for the first time, the wait may be on the longer side. If you’re renewing an existing EAD, the process could be faster. Once your application for an EAD is approved, you will be issued a physical card, also known as an I-766 card, by USCIS.
In time-sensitive situations, such as waiting for a job offer or avoiding a gap in employment, having a lawyer on your side can be a major advantage. We can walk you through this process from start to finish.
Filing a Form I-765 can be daunting, but an experienced law firm can make the process smoother and easier. At Natalia Darancou Law, PLLC, we’ve helped many of our clients successfully apply for work permits and navigate the I-765 process over the years. Our legal team can:
Don’t let delays or mistakes slow down your ability to work. Call us today to schedule your consultation, and let our experienced team help you get started. We’re here to help you succeed.
Need to work legally in the U.S.? Start with the Employment Authorization Document (EAD) by filing Form I-765. Our immigration team at Natalia Darancou Law, PLLC can help you apply quickly and correctly.
Contact us today to schedule your consultation.
The Natalia Darancou Law Firm provides removal defense, family-based, & humanitarian visas, including but not limited to VAWA, u-visa, adjustment of status, consular processing, residency, asylum, and complex crimmigration cases.
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