With new updates in 2025 aimed at reducing processing delays and increasing job flexibility for immigrants, now is the time to understand how the EAD works, who qualifies, what kind of jobs you can do, and how to apply.
What is the Employment Authorization Document (EAD)?
The Employment Authorization Document (EAD), often known as a U.S. work permit, is an essential document for many foreign nationals residing in the United States. The EAD is issued by U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) and permits qualified foreign persons, including students, asylum seekers, and spouses of visa holders, to work lawfully in the United States for a predetermined amount of time.
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What are the changes to the Employment Authorization Document (EAD)?
The US EAD will see two significant developments in 2025:
#1. EAD Validity Extension Increased Automatically to 540 Days
The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has adopted a permanent regulation that permits automatic extensions of some EADs up to 540 days (formerly 180 days), which is a significant step to shield immigrant workers from needless job gaps.
Those with pending EAD renewals who fall within certain categories—such as TPS holders, asylum seekers, and green card applicants—benefit from this provision.
#2. A New Version of Form I-765 Is Needed
Only the updated 01/20/25 edition of Form I-765 will be accepted by USCIS as of May 1, 2025. Older versions of applications will be rejected; thus, applicants should make sure:
Who Can Apply for a U.S. Work Permit (EAD)?
If you are currently in the United States and fit into one of the following immigration categories, you may apply for an Employment Authorization Document (EAD):
- C08 – Asylum applicants with a pending case
- A03 – Refugees admitted to the U.S.
- A05 – Individuals granted asylum
- C09 – Applicants for Adjustment of Status (Green Card)
- C33 – DACA recipients
- C26 – H-4 visa holders (spouses of H-1B workers)
- A17, A18 – L-2 and E visa spouses
- A12, C19 – Temporary Protected Status (TPS) holders
- C03 – F-1 students with OPT or CPT authorization
- C05 – J-2 visa holders (dependents of J-1)
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Types of Jobs You Can Do With an EAD
You can work full-time or part-time for any company in any field with the EAD; it is not employer-specific. Unless your status prevents it, it even permits you to create your own business, consult, or work as a freelancer.
You can lawfully work in the following jobs if you have an EAD:
- Technology: UX designer, data analyst, and software engineer
- Healthcare: Lab Technician, Medical Assistant, Nurse
- Retail & Hospitality: Hotel Manager, Chef, Sales Associate
- Education: Academic Administrator, Research Assistant, Tutor
- Operations & Logistics: Warehouse Employee, Delivery Driver
- Freelance or Gig Work: Designer, Translator, Online Seller.
How to Apply for an Employment Authorization Document (EAD) (Form I-765)?
- Complete the Form I-765 – (01/20/25 edition)
- Get the necessary paperwork ready.
- A duplicate of the ID page from your passport
- Proof of current immigration status (I-94 or visa stamp)
- Previous EAD (if relevant)
- Two passport-sized pictures
- filing fee (about $520) or a request for a fee waiver
- Depending on your current state and eligibility category, you must mail your application to the correct USCIS Lockbox address.
- Get Your EAD Card (it will take two to six months to process).
While you wait, you might be eligible for a 540-day automatic extension.
Information for Employers and Employees
- Employers must use Form I-9 to verify your EAD, but if you are within the 540-day extension period, you cannot be fired for having an expired EAD.
- Before applying, always confirm your category and legal status because the EAD is not a visa and not all visa holders are eligible.
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