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What is a Work Permit?

Writer's picture: Fabiana AdamoFabiana Adamo

The work permit in the United States is known as the EAD Employment Authorization Document.


If you are a foreigner and want to work in the United States, you need a document called Employment Authorization, also known as EAD.


To obtain it, you must fill out a form called I-765.


There are different types of work permits, each one for a specific situation.

 For example, there is

  • temporary permits,

  • permits for spouses of workers,

  •  and permits for people who have requested asylum.

In order to obtain a work permit, you need to meet certain requirements, such as having a job offer from an employer in the United States and, in some cases, a certification from the Department of Labor.


How long does it take to process a Work Permit?

The processing time for a work permit application in the United States may vary. Generally, it can take 2 to 5 months. However, due to current delays, it will likely take more than 5 months from the time you apply to the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) to the time you receive your employment authorization. . Some sources even mention that it could take approximately 5 to 7 months.


Who can file Form I-765?

Not everyone can file Form I-765. You can only file an I-765 application if you are eligible for a work permit in the United States.


People who qualify for work permits include:

  • Individuals with a pending adjustment of status application. If you are applying for your green card through consular processing, you cannot request an employment authorization document. You will have to wait to receive the green card and use it to prove that you can work in the United States.

  • F-1 visa students applying for Optional Practical Training (OPT) and STEM OPT extension.

  • People with an asylum application in process.

  • Dreamers applying for or renewing Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA).

  • People applying for T visa or U visa status.




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