Form I-766 EAD Card: Your Key to Legal Work in the U.S.

Introduction to Form I-766: Your U.S. Work Authorization Card

If you’re an immigrant in the United States, getting the legal right to work is a major step toward independence and opportunity. The Form I-766, also known as the Employment Authorization Document (EAD) or work permit, is the official card issued by U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) that proves you’re legally allowed to work in the U.S. Whether you’re applying for a green card, seeking asylum, or here under a temporary visa program, understanding how to get your EAD card is essential.

In this guide, you’ll learn who qualifies for Form I-766, how it differs from Form I-765, how to apply, how much it costs, and how long it takes to arrive—so you can start working with confidence and avoid delays in your immigration journey.

What is Form I-766

Form I-766 is a physical card that serves as proof of employment authorization in the U.S. It is issued after a successful Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization. The card contains personal information such as your name, photo, immigration category, and card expiration date.

It includes the cardholder’s name, photograph, Alien Registration Number (A-Number), visa category, and the expiration date of work authorization. Employers use this card to verify employment eligibility when completing Form I-9.

To receive an EAD card, eligible immigrants must first file Form I-765. Once approved, USCIS mails the I-766 card, which typically remains valid for 1 to 2 years depending on the applicant’s immigration status.

Important Update from DHS

The U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has permanently extended the automatic renewal period for Employment Authorization Documents (EADs) from up to 180 days to up to 540 days. This change benefits H-4, L-2, and certain E-dependent visa holders, helping them maintain work authorization without gaps while their renewal applications are pending.

Note: An EAD allows you to work, but it does not grant immigration status or permission to live permanently in the U.S.

Form I-765 vs. Form I-766: What’s the Difference?

Many people confuse Form I-765 and Form I-766, but they serve different purposes in the U.S. immigration process.

• Form I-765 is the application for employment authorization. If you want to legally work in the U.S., you must first file Form I-765 with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).
• Form I-766 is the actual physical card, also known as the Employment Authorization Document (EAD), that you receive once your I-765 application is approved. It proves you are authorized to work in the United States.

Here’s a quick breakdown:

Why an EAD Card Is Essential for Immigrants

The Employment Authorization Document (EAD) is more than just a work permit — it unlocks a range of essential benefits for immigrants building a future in the United States. Whether you’re waiting for your green card, adjusting your status, or under temporary protection, having a valid EAD card can make all the difference.

1. Legal right to work – The EAD is your official permission to work in the U.S. while waiting for a green card or other immigration status.
2. Career opportunities – Get access to better jobs, stable income, and employer-sponsored benefits.
3. Labor protections – Enjoy fair pay, safe working conditions, and protection from workplace discrimination.
4. Government-issued ID – Use your EAD as valid ID for everyday needs like opening bank accounts or traveling domestically.
5. Access to benefits – May be required for programs like health insurance through the marketplace or driver’s license applications.
6. Protect your immigration future – Unauthorized work can harm your green card or visa applications—an EAD keeps you protected.

Tip: Don’t delay applying or renewing your EAD—working without authorization, even briefly, can cause serious immigration setbacks.

Who Is Eligible for an EAD Card?

You may qualify for an Employment Authorization Document (EAD card) if you are a noncitizen legally present in the U.S. under specific visa or immigration categories. Common eligible groups include:

• Green card applicants (those with a pending Form I-485 adjustment of status)
• Asylum seekers and approved asylees
• Refugees
• DACA recipients (Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals)
• Temporary Protected Status (TPS) holders
• F-1 students participating in Optional Practical Training (OPT) or facing economic hardship
• Spouses of visa holders such as H-1B (H-4 visa holders), L-1 (L-2 visa holders), and E-1/E-2
• K-1 visa holders (fiancé(e)s of U.S. citizens)
• U visa or VAWA applicants and other humanitarian cases
• Applicants for cancellation of removal or parole

Note: EAD eligibility depends on your immigration status and the timely filing of Form I-765. Simply being in one of the above categories does not guarantee approval. The complete list of eligibility categories can be found on the USCIS website.

Documents Required to Apply for Form I-766 (EAD Card)

To apply for a work permit (EAD card), you must submit Form I-765 along with supporting documents that prove your identity, immigration status, and eligibility. Here’s what most applicants need:

Core Required Documents:

• Completed Form I-765, signed and dated
• Copy of your most recent I-94 travel record
• Copy of your valid U.S. visa
• Copy of the photo page of your foreign passport
• Two passport-style color photos (taken within the last 30 days)
• Copies of any prior EAD cards (if you previously had one)

Depending on your immigration category, include one or more of the following:

• Green card receipt notice (Form I-485 filing confirmation)
• Proof of student status (Form I-20 and/or DSO letter)
• Asylum approval or pending asylum application
• DACA approval notice
• TPS (Temporary Protected Status) documents
• Marriage certificate (if applying based on marriage to a U.S. citizen)
• USCIS notices or biometrics appointment letters

EAD Card Fees (2025)

Planning to apply for a U.S. work permit? Here’s what it will cost you in 2025:

If you’re facing financial difficulties, you might qualify for a fee waiver by submitting Form I-912. Be sure to check the latest USCIS fee guidelines before filing, as costs can change. Check our recent guide on how to apply for a Form I-912 waiver.

When Should You Apply for a Work Permit (EAD)?

• First-time applicants: You can apply for an EAD as soon as you qualify based on your immigration status. Don’t wait—getting an early start helps you work legally without delays.
• Renewing your EAD: Submit your renewal application about 6 months (180 days) before your current card expires to avoid interruptions in your work authorization.
• Filing with other applications: Many immigration categories let you submit your EAD application at the same time as other forms, like a green card application.
• Automatic extension now longer: Starting in 2025, USCIS now automatically extends work permits for up to 540 days (previously 180 days) while your renewal is being processed—as long as you apply on time. This helps prevent gaps in your ability to work legally.

EAD Card Processing Time: What to Expect

When you apply for a work permit (EAD card), you’re really submitting Form I-765. The EAD card itself (Form I-766) is issued after your I-765 is approved.

On average, Form I-765 takes about 1.5 to 2 months to process, but the timing can vary based on:

• Your eligibility category (asylum, adjustment of status, DACA, etc.)
• Which USCIS service center is processing your case
• Whether your application is complete and error-free
• If you receive a Request for Evidence (RFE)
• Security/background checks for your category

Once your application is approved, you’ll get your EAD card by mail in about 2–4 weeks.

Pro tip: You can track your case status online using USCIS’s Case Tracker, and check processing times for your service center directly on the USCIS Processing Times page.

How to Apply for an EAD Card

Applying for an Employment Authorization Document (EAD) starts with filing Form I-765. Follow these steps to complete your application:

1. Check Your Eligibility
Make sure you qualify for a work permit under your immigration status — such as asylum, adjustment of status, DACA, or temporary protected status (TPS).

2. Gather Required Documents
Prepare and include copies of the following:

• Your valid U.S. visa (if applicable)
• Two recent passport-style photos
• Form I-94 (arrival/departure record)
• Passport page showing your place of birth
• Current EAD (if you’re renewing)
• Proof of your pending green card application, if applying through marriage or family

If an attorney is representing you, include Form G-28 as well.

3. Complete Form I-765
Fill out Form I-765 carefully, making sure to select the correct eligibility category.

4. Pay the Filing Fee
Check the current fee on the USCIS website. You can pay online or include a check or money order with your paper application, depending on your filing method.

5. Submit Your Application
You can file in two ways:

• Online through your USCIS account (recommended)
• By mail to the correct address listed in the I-765 instructions, based on your category

6. Attend a Biometrics Appointment
Some applicants may be required to attend a biometrics appointment. USCIS will send you a notice if this applies to you.

7. Track Your Case
Once submitted, use your receipt number to check the status online at the USCIS case status tracker.

8. Get Your EAD by Mail
If your application is approved, your EAD card will arrive by mail, typically within a few weeks.

What Happens After You Receive an EAD Card?

Receiving your Form I-766 Employment Authorization Document (EAD card) is a major milestone—it means you’re now legally authorized to work in the United States. But what comes next? Here’s what you should do after getting your EAD card:

Apply for a Social Security Number (SSN)

• If you didn’t request a Social Security number during your Form I-765 application, apply for one immediately after receiving your EAD card.
• You’ll need an SSN to begin employment, file taxes, and access many financial or government services.
• If you applied for an SSN with your EAD, the Social Security card should arrive separately by mail.

Prepare for Employment Eligibility Verification

• Before starting a job, your employer must verify your identity and work authorization through Form I-9 (Employment Eligibility Verification).
• Your EAD card and SSN together prove that you’re authorized to work.
• U.S. law prohibits employers from discriminating against workers based on immigration status once you’re legally authorized.

Understand Your Tax Obligations

• Just like U.S. citizens, you’ll be responsible for federal and state income taxes and payroll taxes.
• Failing to file or pay taxes properly can result in fines—and even jeopardize your future green card or U.S. citizenship application.

Risks of Unauthorized Employment in the U.S.

• Working without an EAD—even informally or for just a few hours—can lead to severe immigration penalties.
• Unauthorized employment can trigger inadmissibility bars (3 or 10 years), affect visa eligibility, or hurt your green card case.
• Only begin work after your EAD is in hand and valid.

What to Do If Your Work Permit (EAD Card) Is Lost or Stolen

Losing your Employment Authorization Document (Form I-766) can feel stressful, but don’t worry—USCIS provides a clear path to replace or renew your card.

1. Confirm Your Eligibility

Before applying for a replacement EAD, make sure you’re still eligible to work in the U.S. If your immigration status hasn’t changed, you’re likely still authorized to request a new work permit.

2. File Form I-765 to Replace Your EAD Card

If your EAD card was lost, stolen, or damaged, you must file a new Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization, with USCIS. In most cases, you’ll also need to:

• Pay the required filing fee (unless you qualify for a fee waiver)
• Include supporting documents to prove your identity and status
• Indicate that the application is for a replacement card

Once your application is pending, you may be eligible for automatic extension of your work authorization (up to 540 days in 2025 for eligible renewal categories).

3. Didn’t Receive Your EAD Card?

If USCIS has approved your EAD but the card hasn’t arrived, you can submit a case inquiry through the USCIS website. Be prepared to provide your receipt number and mailing details.

4. Correcting an Error on Your EAD

• If USCIS made the error: You do not need to refile Form I-765 or pay a fee. Simply send:
  • The incorrect EAD card
  • Documents showing the correct information
  • A letter explaining the mistake
    Mail this to the USCIS service center that issued your card or the National Benefits Center.
• If the error was yours: You’ll need to file a new Form I-765, pay the filing fee, and submit all required documents.

5. Need to Renew Instead?

If your work permit is expiring within the next 6 months—or has already expired—you should renew your EAD by filing Form I-765 with USCIS. Timely renewal helps avoid work interruptions and maintains your legal employment status.

Pro Tip: Always keep a copy of your EAD card and USCIS receipt notice in a safe place. This helps speed up the replacement process if your work permit goes missing.

Need help replacing your lost or stolen EAD card? ImmigrationDirect makes the process easier. We guide you step-by-step through Form I-765 so you can file quickly and confidently.

U.S. Work Permit FAQs

Ready to Apply for Your EAD Card (Form I-766)?

Getting your Employment Authorization Document (EAD) is a crucial step toward legally working in the United States. Whether you’re applying for the first time or renewing your card, submitting Form I-765 correctly is essential to avoid delays.

At Immigration Direct, we simplify the process with easy-to-follow guidance, smart form technology, and access to attorney-reviewed services. Start your application today and take control of your future with confidence. Apply now with Immigration Direct!