Form I-765 is an application for Employment Authorization Document (EAD) which allows eligible noncitizens to work in the U.S.

Proof of work authorization for noncitizens who are not otherwise authorized to work in the U.S.

Who is eligible for EADs?

C09 (adjustment of status), C08 (asylum applicants), A03 (refugees), A12 (TPS holders) and many others listed in the I-765 instructions.

Is EAD the same as green card?

No. EAD is temporary work authorization, green card is permanent residence and work authorization.

What do I need to file Form I-765?

Form I-765, identity documents (e.g. passport), proof of eligibility category, prior EAD (if applicable), 2 passport photos and filing fee (if required).

Do I need to pay a fee?

Some categories require a fee, some are exempt. Check the USCIS Fee Schedule.

What is the fee for Form I-765?

$520 for filing by mail; $470 if filed online. If filing with I-485, then I-765 filing fee is $260. Exemptions and fee waivers may also apply.

Can I file Form I-765 online?

Yes, some categories are eligible to file online. Check the USCIS website for eligibility and instructions.

Where do I file Form I-765?

Submit the application to the correct USCIS address for your eligibility category. Addresses are listed on the USCIS website.

What if I’m not sure of my eligibility category?

Read the I-765 instructions or consult an immigration attorney.

What’s the difference between initial and renewal?

“Initial” is your first EAD application under a specific category. “Renewal” is to extend your EAD before it expires.

What if I select the wrong category?

USCIS may reject or deny your application, so be accurate.

How do I fill out the form if I don’t have SSN?

Check “No” for SSN. You can also request a new SSN on Form I-765.

Enter your existing SSN but do not request a new one.

Can I leave fields blank?

Don’t leave fields blank. If a question doesn’t apply, write “N/A” or “None” as instructed.

How do I enter a mailing address?

Enter a valid address where you can receive mail. Make sure it’s the same address you use for USCIS correspondence.

Do I need to include my A-Number?

Yes, if you have an Alien Registration Number (A-Number), enter it on the form.

How do I enter my eligibility category on Form I-765?

Use the category codes in the instructions, e.g. (C)(9) for adjustment of status or (A)(5) for asylees.

2 recent passport photos following USCIS specs.

Do I need to submit my passport?

Copy of biographical page and U.S. entry stamps.

Do I need to submit prior EAD for a renewal?

Yes, include a copy of your current or most recent EAD.

What if I lost my prior EAD?

Explain and provide supporting documents showing prior work authorization.

What if my documents are not in English?

Provide certified English translations of all foreign-language documents.

Can I submit photocopies of original documents?

Yes, unless USCIS requests originals.

Should I mail or file online?

Depends on your category. Online filing is available for some, others must mail.

How do I mail my application?

Include the form, supporting documents, fee and photos in the order listed in the instructions.

Can I track my application after I file?

Yes, USCIS will provide a receipt number to track your case online.

How long does it take to process Form I-765?

Processing time varies by category and service center but can be 2-12 months.

Will I get a receipt notice?

Yes, USCIS will send a receipt notice within a few weeks of receiving your application.

Expedite available for humanitarian or financial hardship reasons.

What if my address changes?

Update your address with USCIS right away to avoid delays.

What if my application is denied?

USCIS will send a denial notice explaining why. You can reapply if eligible or consult an attorney.

How long is EAD valid?

Depends on your category, 1-5 years.

When should I renew my EAD?

File a renewal at least 180 days before EAD expires.

What happens if my EAD expires while my renewal is pending?

Some categories get an automatic 540 day extension.

Can I work with an expired EAD?

Only if you qualify for an automatic extension.

What if I’m applying for TPS and EAD at the same time?

You can file Form I-765 with your TPS application.

Can I apply for EAD if I have DACA?

Yes, DACA recipients get an EAD for 2 years.

Can dependents of visa holders apply for an EAD?

Yes, H-4, L-2, E-2 spouses can apply.

My EAD is lost or stolen what do I do?

File Form I-765 for a replacement EAD.

Can I file Form I-765 with Form I-485?

Yes, adjustment of status applicants can file both forms together.

What’s the difference between an EAD and combo card?

A combo card is an EAD and Advance Parole for adjustment of status applicants.

Do I need an EAD if I have a work-authorized visa?

No, if your visa already grants work authorization (e.g., H-1B).

Can I work multiple jobs with an EAD?

Yes, unless otherwise stated, an EAD allows unrestricted employment. Not OPT restrictions related to F-1 EADs.

Can I use my EAD for I-9 verification?

Yes, it’s proof of work authorization for employers.

Can I travel outside the U.S. with an EAD?

No, an EAD does not grant re-entry into the U.S. You need separate travel authorization.

How do I check my case status?

Use the USCIS case status online tool with your receipt number.

Do I need an attorney to file Form I-765?

No, but recommended for complex cases or if you’re unsure about your eligibility.

I-765 Processing Time [How Long to Get Your EAD?]

Q: Who can file Form I-765?

Noncitizens in certain immigration categories such as adjustment of status applicants, asylum seekers, refugees and certain visa holders etc.

By Richard T. Herman, Esq., Immigration Lawyer (30+ Years Experience)

Quick Answer: As of October 2025, Form I-765 (EAD) processing times range from 2 to 9 months, depending on your category, USCIS service center, and whether you filed online or by mail.

What Is Form I-765 (EAD Application)?

Form I-765, officially titled Application for Employment Authorization, allows certain non-citizens in the U.S. to obtain a work permit—commonly known as an Employment Authorization Document (EAD).
A valid EAD enables lawful employment while your immigration status or green card application is pending.

Who Can File Form I-765

Applicants typically include:

F-1 students applying for OPT or STEM OPT extension
Adjustment of Status (AOS) applicants waiting for green cards
H-4 and L-2 dependents of H-1B and L-1 workers
Asylum seekers and refugees
TPS holders
DACA recipients

For eligibility categories and filing guidance, visit the USCIS Form I-765 page.

Average USCIS Processing Times for Form I-765 (2025 Update)

Processing times vary dramatically depending on the applicant category and USCIS service center handling the case.

Snippet: The fastest EAD approvals in 2025 are for online-filed STEM OPT and H-4/L-2 spousal categories; the slowest are for asylum and AOS EAD requests.

Category	Average Processing Time (2025)	Typical Service Centers
F-1 OPT (work permit)	2 – 5 months	Potomac / Texas
STEM OPT Extension	2 – 4 months	Potomac / Nebraska
Adjustment of Status (AOS)	4 – 9 months	National Benefits Center
H-4 / L-2 Dependents	3 – 6 months	Texas / California
Asylum Applicants (Initial)	6 – 12 months	Service Centers Nationwide
TPS Applicants	4 – 8 months	Vermont / Texas
DACA Renewals	3 – 5 months	Nebraska / Vermont

Visual Prompt (Figure A): Bar Chart comparing average I-765 wait times by category (2023–2025 trend line).

For the most current times, use the USCIS Processing Times Tool.

How to Check Your I-765 Case Status

USCIS offers a free real-time tracker for every case.

Step-by-step:

Go to the USCIS Case Status Online portal.
Enter your 13-digit receipt number (Example: MSC2390123456).
Review your latest status update (e.g., “Case Was Approved” or “Request for Evidence Sent”).
Sign up for email/text notifications through your USCIS online account.

Quick Tip: Your receipt number reveals which service center is processing your case—helpful for estimating timelines.

Why EAD Processing Times Vary in 2025

1. Workload and Staffing Fluctuations

Seasonal filing surges—such as the F-1 OPT wave in spring and summer—can stretch resources.

2. Security and Biometrics Checks

Certain categories require background checks that may add weeks.

3. Service Center Performance Differences

Processing times at Potomac and Texas often lag behind California or Nebraska.

4. Policy Changes and Fee Adjustments

The 2025 USCIS fee rule and new digital case management system have temporarily slowed some transitions.

Snippet: The three biggest drivers of EAD delays in 2025 are workload spikes, security checks, and service-center backlogs.

How to Expedite Your EAD Application

You can ask USCIS to expedite your EAD if you meet specific criteria outlined in the USCIS Expedite Request Policy.

Valid Expedite Grounds

Severe financial loss to you or a company
Urgent humanitarian reasons
Clear USCIS error
U.S. government interest (nonprofit or national interest case)

How to File

Call USCIS Contact Center at 1-800-375-5283.
Submit a written request after a receipt notice is issued.
Include supporting evidence (pay stubs, termination letters, medical proof).

Example: A healthcare worker with a pending AOS EAD who can show risk of job loss may be granted expedited processing within 2–3 weeks.

EAD Renewal and Automatic Extension Rules

Many EAD holders qualify for a 180-day automatic extension after filing a timely renewal.

Key Points

File your renewal 120 days before expiration.
Your old EAD and Form I-797C receipt notice serve as proof of work authorization during the extension period.
Applicable categories include AOS, H-4, L-2, TPS, and certain asylum statuses.

See the USCIS EAD Automatic Extension Page for full eligibility.

Common Reasons for I-765 Delays or RFEs

Missing signatures or incomplete forms
Incorrect eligibility category (e.g., (c)(9) vs (a)(5))
Outdated edition of the form
Incorrect or missing fee
USCIS address errors or mail delivery issues
Background check delays

Snippet: Double-check your eligibility code and signature before submission—these are among the top reasons for EAD denials or RFEs.

2025 Trends and Backlog Insights

1. Digital Filing Is Faster

USCIS data and user reports show online submissions are processed 10–20 days faster than paper applications.

2. Potomac and Texas Service Centers Face Extended Delays

Applicants report cases pending 7–9 months on average at these centers.

3. New Fee Structure

USCIS implemented revised EAD filing fees in 2025, impacting processing workloads as cases shift among centers.

4. Sector Prioritization

Healthcare workers and STEM graduates benefit from expedited review under temporary USCIS initiatives.

How to Avoid EAD Application Mistakes

Always use the latest Form I-765 edition and fee amount.
Verify your eligibility category matches your status.
Upload clear, legible scans if filing online.
Include supporting evidence (passport ID page, I-94, visa copy).
Keep copies of all documents for your records.
Track USCIS updates and receipts promptly.

For examples and legal assistance, see the Herman Legal Group Work Permit Guide.

What to Do if Your Case Is Outside Normal Processing Time

If your case exceeds the normal timeline listed in the USCIS Processing Times Tool, you have several options:

Submit a Service Request via the USCIS Case Inquiry Portal.
Contact USCIS through Emma Chat or call 1-800-375-5283.
Reach Out to Your Congressional Representative to intervene on your behalf.
Request Help from the CIS Ombudsman through the Department of Homeland Security Form 7001.

Snippet: If your EAD case is pending past normal processing time, you can file a free online inquiry with USCIS to prompt review.

EAD Delays and the U.S. Workforce in 2025

EAD delays impact millions of foreign workers, students, and families in 2025. Employers face staff shortages while non-citizens lose income and health coverage when authorization expires.

Legal experts and advocacy groups are pushing for faster automation, better staffing, and real-time case transparency. The Herman Legal Group continues to monitor processing trends and assist clients in securing timely work authorization.

Key Takeaways

EAD processing time in 2025 averages 2 to 9 months, depending on category and service center.
Online filing and complete submissions are key to faster approval.
Asylum and AOS EADs remain the slowest, while OPT and H-4/L-2 EADs see quicker turnarounds.
Expedite requests may be granted for financial hardship or humanitarian reasons.
Automatic 180-day extensions protect many renewal applicants from employment gaps.
Always check your case status, file renewals early, and review USCIS guidance for latest updates.

About the Author

Expert on Immigration Law, Attorney Richard Herman — Immigration Attorney Richard Herman

Richard T. Herman, Esq. is an immigration lawyer with over 30 years of experience representing families, students, and employers nationwide. He is the founder of the Cleveland-based Herman Legal Group, serving clients across the U.S. and internationally. Richard is also the co-author of the book Immigrant, Inc., which celebrates the economic power of immigrants in America.

To learn more or schedule a consultation, visit Richard Herman’s bio page or the Herman Legal Group contact portal.

Sources:

Success Stories

How Long Does Form I-765 Take? Latest EAD Processing Times (2025 Guide)

Table of Contents