Form I-765 – Application for a Work Permit (EAD)

TITLE: Form I-765 – Application for a Work Permit (EAD)

WHAT IT IS:

Form I-765 is the application for an Employment Authorization Document (EAD). An EAD is a card that proves you are allowed to work in the United States. If USCIS approves your application, they will mail your work permit card to you.

WHO NEEDS IT:

You may file Form I-765 if you are in the United States and need a work permit (EAD). You may also use this form if your immigration status already allows you to work without restrictions, but you want an EAD card that shows that permission. Your eligibility to file depends on your specific immigration category — check the official I-765 instructions to see if you qualify.

HOW TO FILE:

1. Choose how to file. The easiest way is to file online. Create a USCIS account on the official website and complete Form I-765 there. If you must file on paper, you can; follow the paper filing instructions that come with the form.

2. Get the right form edition. Only use the current Form I-765 from the USCIS website. The form edition date must be visible at the bottom of every page if you print it.

3. Prepare your supporting documents. The official instructions tell you which documents you must include with your application. Read them carefully.

4. Pay the correct fee (or request a fee waiver if eligible). Fee information is in the official fee schedule. (See the FEES section below.)

5. Submit your application. If filing online, follow the prompts. If filing by mail, send your complete paper application to the address in the instructions.

6. Track your case and wait for your card. After approval, your EAD card should be produced within 2 weeks and sent by USPS Priority Mail. Use Case Status Online to get your USPS tracking number.

7. Update your address if you move. If your mailing address changes after you file, update it immediately with USCIS and with the USPS. If you do not, your card could be lost, your case delayed, and you might have to pay the fee again and reapply.

8. If you do not receive the card within 30 days of approval, visit the e-Request – Self Service Tools page on the USCIS website to submit an inquiry.

FEES:

The standard filing fee for Form I-765 is not listed on this page. (Check the official USCIS fee schedule for the current amount and for any fee waiver options you may qualify for.)

Special note for certain parolees: If you are a Ms. L. Settlement Class member or a Qualifying Additional Family Member (QAFM), USCIS has paused collection of certain HR-1 fees for (c)(11) initial and renewal EAD applications as of Feb. 5, 2026. See the official Form I-765 page and www.together.gov for details on who qualifies.

CURRENT EDITION & DEADLINES:

The edition date mentioned on this page is 08/21/25. You must use the most recent edition. Before you file, always download the form directly from the USCIS website to make sure you are using the correct, current edition.

COMMON MISTAKES:

- Old form edition. If you mail a paper form, confirm the edition date at the bottom of every page matches the current one on the website. Incomplete or outdated forms can be rejected.

- Edited or mounted photos. USCIS requires unmounted, unretouched photos. Do not edit, digitally enhance, or mount your photos. Submitting retouched images can delay your application and may force you to visit an office to prove your identity.

- Failing to update your address. Always keep your mailing address current with USCIS and the post office. Lost cards mean extra time and money.

WHERE TO GET THE FORM:

Get the official, most recent Form I-765 and its instructions only from the USCIS website:

SOURCE: https://www.uscis.gov/i-765

DISCLAIMER: General info from USCIS, not legal advice — always verify on the official page and consult a licensed immigration attorney for your case. English is authoritative.