What Is I-765 Form? A Comprehensive Guide for Work Authorization

What Is I-765 form? It is the Application for Employment Authorization, a crucial document for foreign nationals seeking permission to work in the United States, and WHAT.EDU.VN offers free answers to all your questions. This form allows individuals in specific immigration categories to apply for an Employment Authorization Document (EAD), enabling them to legally work in the U.S. Understand eligibility, filing procedures, and benefits, with expert assistance available at WHAT.EDU.VN. Key topics include work permit, eligibility criteria, application process, and EAD card.

Table of Contents

What is Form I-765 and Its Purpose?
Who Needs to File Form I-765?
What are the Eligibility Categories for Form I-765?
How to Fill Out Form I-765: A Step-by-Step Guide
What Documents are Required When Filing Form I-765?
Where to File Form I-765?
What is the Filing Fee for Form I-765?
How Long Does it Take to Process Form I-765?
What Happens After Form I-765 is Approved?
What Happens If Form I-765 is Denied?
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Form I-765
Need Help with Your I-765 Application?

1. What is Form I-765 and Its Purpose?

What is I-765 Form? Form I-765, officially known as the Application for Employment Authorization, is a United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) form that allows eligible foreign nationals to apply for permission to work in the U.S. It’s a critical document for those who are not U.S. citizens or lawful permanent residents (green card holders) but are seeking employment authorization due to their immigration status or circumstances. The primary purpose of Form I-765 is to request an Employment Authorization Document (EAD), often referred to as a work permit, which grants the holder the legal right to work in the United States for a specific period.

The EAD serves as proof of employment authorization and is essential for individuals who need to work in the U.S. but do not have a green card or other immigration status that inherently allows employment. This form bridges the gap for many foreign nationals who are in the U.S. under various non-immigrant statuses, are seeking asylum, or have other specific circumstances that may qualify them for employment authorization.

1.1. Key Aspects of Form I-765

Employment Authorization Document (EAD): The main outcome of filing Form I-765 is to obtain an EAD, which allows you to work legally in the U.S.
Eligibility Categories: There are various categories under which you can apply for employment authorization using Form I-765, each with specific requirements and conditions.
USCIS Form: Form I-765 is an official form provided by USCIS, and it must be completed accurately and truthfully to avoid delays or denials.
Renewal: In many cases, EADs are issued for a limited time, and Form I-765 can also be used to renew your employment authorization before it expires.

1.2. Why is Form I-765 Important?

The I-765 form is important because it is the pathway to legal employment for many foreign nationals in the U.S. Here’s why it matters:

Legal Employment: It provides the legal basis for foreign nationals to work in the United States, ensuring they comply with U.S. immigration laws.
Economic Contribution: By obtaining employment authorization, individuals can contribute to the U.S. economy and support themselves and their families.
Immigration Benefits: For some, obtaining an EAD can be a step toward further immigration benefits, such as applying for a green card.
Avoidance of Penalties: Working without authorization can lead to severe consequences, including deportation. Form I-765 helps individuals avoid these penalties.

1.3. Key Takeaway

What is I-765 form? It is a gateway to legal employment for many foreign nationals in the U.S., providing them with the opportunity to work, contribute to the economy, and pursue their immigration goals. If you believe you may be eligible to apply for employment authorization, it’s essential to understand the requirements and process for filing Form I-765. For personalized assistance and answers to your specific questions, visit WHAT.EDU.VN.

2. Who Needs to File Form I-765?

Determining who needs to file Form I-765 is crucial, as it’s not a universal requirement for all foreign nationals in the United States. Eligibility depends on your immigration status, category, and specific circumstances. Here’s a breakdown of who typically needs to file this form:

2.1. Students on F-1 Visas

International students in the U.S. on F-1 visas may need to file Form I-765 in certain situations:

Optional Practical Training (OPT): F-1 students can apply for OPT, which allows them to work in a field related to their studies for a limited time. Both pre-completion OPT (before graduation) and post-completion OPT (after graduation) require filing Form I-765.
Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) OPT Extension: F-1 students with STEM degrees who are on post-completion OPT may be eligible for a 24-month STEM OPT extension. This also requires filing Form I-765.
Severe Economic Hardship: Students facing severe economic hardship due to unforeseen circumstances may apply for employment authorization by filing Form I-765.

2.2. Asylum Seekers and Refugees

Individuals seeking asylum in the U.S. or those who have been granted refugee status may need to file Form I-765:

Pending Asylum Application: Asylum seekers can apply for employment authorization if their asylum application has been pending for at least 150 days.
Refugees: Refugees are generally authorized to work in the U.S. upon arrival, but they may still need to apply for an EAD using Form I-765 to provide proof of their authorization.

2.3. Individuals with Pending Adjustment of Status Applications

Foreign nationals who have applied to adjust their status to become lawful permanent residents (green card holders) may be eligible to apply for an EAD while their application is pending:

Adjustment of Status Applicants: If you have a pending Form I-485, Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status, you can file Form I-765 to obtain employment authorization while waiting for your green card to be approved.

2.4. Individuals with T or U Nonimmigrant Status

Those who have been granted T nonimmigrant status (for victims of trafficking) or U nonimmigrant status (for victims of certain crimes) may need to file Form I-765:

Derivative Family Members: While principal T and U nonimmigrants are generally authorized to work, certain derivative family members may need to apply for an EAD using Form I-765.

2.5. Individuals Granted Deferred Action

In certain situations, individuals who have been granted deferred action may be eligible to apply for employment authorization:

Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA): Individuals who meet the requirements for DACA can file Form I-765 to request employment authorization and protection from deportation.

2.6. Other Eligible Categories

There are several other categories under which you may be eligible to file Form I-765, including:

Individuals with certain nonimmigrant statuses that allow employment authorization.
Those who have been granted Temporary Protected Status (TPS).
Dependents of certain foreign government officials or international organization employees.
Individuals seeking employment authorization based on compelling circumstances.

2.7. Key Takeaway

The necessity of filing Form I-765 depends on your unique immigration status and circumstances. Students, asylum seekers, adjustment of status applicants, and individuals with specific nonimmigrant statuses are among those who may need to file this form to obtain employment authorization. Understanding your eligibility is the first step in the application process. If you’re unsure whether you need to file Form I-765, consult with an immigration attorney or seek guidance at WHAT.EDU.VN to determine your options.

3. What are the Eligibility Categories for Form I-765?

Understanding the eligibility categories for Form I-765 is essential because it determines whether you qualify for employment authorization. Each category has specific requirements, and you must choose the correct one when filing your application. Here’s an overview of some of the most common eligibility categories:

3.1. (c)(3) – Students Seeking Optional Practical Training (OPT)

This category is for F-1 students seeking Optional Practical Training (OPT) both before and after completing their studies.

Pre-Completion OPT: Allows eligible F-1 students to work part-time or full-time while still in school.
Post-Completion OPT: Permits F-1 students to work full-time after graduation in a field related to their studies.
STEM OPT Extension: Eligible F-1 students with STEM degrees can apply for a 24-month extension of their post-completion OPT.

3.2. (c)(8) – Pending Asylum Application

This category is for individuals who have a pending asylum application with USCIS.

150-Day Waiting Period: You can apply for employment authorization under this category if your asylum application has been pending for at least 150 days.
Work Authorization While Awaiting a Decision: This allows asylum seekers to work while awaiting a decision on their asylum case.

3.3. (c)(9) – Pending Adjustment of Status

This category is for individuals who have a pending application to adjust their status to become a lawful permanent resident (green card holder).

Concurrent Filing: If you file Form I-485 (Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status) concurrently with Form I-765, you can apply for employment authorization while your green card application is being processed.
Eligibility: You must be eligible for adjustment of status and have a pending I-485 to qualify for this category.

3.4. (c)(14) – Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA)

This category is specifically for individuals who meet the requirements for Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA).

DACA Eligibility: To qualify, you must meet specific age, education, and residency requirements, and you must not have been convicted of certain crimes.
Work Authorization and Protection from Deportation: DACA provides both employment authorization and protection from deportation.

3.5. (c)(19) – Pending Application for Temporary Protected Status (TPS)

This category is for nationals of designated countries who have been granted Temporary Protected Status (TPS) in the United States.

TPS Designation: The Secretary of Homeland Security designates countries eligible for TPS due to ongoing armed conflict, environmental disasters, or other extraordinary and temporary conditions.
Employment Authorization for TPS Holders: If you are a national of a designated country and have been granted TPS, you can apply for employment authorization using Form I-765.

3.6. (c)(31) – Victims of Severe Forms of Trafficking in Persons (T Nonimmigrant Status)

This category is for individuals who have been granted T nonimmigrant status as victims of severe forms of trafficking in persons.

T Visa Eligibility: To qualify for T nonimmigrant status, you must have been a victim of trafficking, complied with reasonable requests from law enforcement, and demonstrate that you would suffer extreme hardship if removed from the U.S.
Employment Authorization for T Visa Holders: Principal T nonimmigrants are generally authorized to work, but certain derivative family members may need to apply for an EAD using Form I-765.

3.7. (c)(40) – Bona Fide Determination for U Visa Applicants

This category is for U visa applicants who have received a bona fide determination.

U Visa Eligibility: The U nonimmigrant status is set aside for victims of certain crimes who have suffered substantial physical or mental abuse and are willing to assist law enforcement in the investigation or prosecution of the crime.
Bona Fide Determination: USCIS may issue employment authorization based on a bona fide determination while the U visa application is pending.

3.8. Other Categories

There are numerous other eligibility categories for Form I-765, each with its own specific requirements. These categories cover a wide range of immigration statuses and circumstances, including:

Nonimmigrant visa holders with employment authorization.
Dependents of certain foreign government officials or international organization employees.
Individuals seeking employment authorization based on compelling circumstances.

3.9. Key Takeaway

Choosing the correct eligibility category is essential when filing Form I-765. Each category has specific requirements, and you must meet those requirements to qualify for employment authorization. Carefully review the instructions for Form I-765 and consult with an immigration attorney or seek guidance at WHAT.EDU.VN to determine the appropriate category for your situation.

4. How to Fill Out Form I-765: A Step-by-Step Guide

Filling out Form I-765 accurately and completely is crucial to avoid delays or denials in your application for employment authorization. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you navigate the form:

4.1. General Instructions

Read the Instructions: Before you begin, carefully read the instructions provided by USCIS for Form I-765. The instructions contain important information about eligibility requirements, required documentation, and filing procedures.
Use Black Ink: Use black ink when filling out the form. This ensures that your responses are clear and legible.
Type or Print Clearly: You can either type your responses directly into the form or print clearly using capital letters.
Answer All Questions: Answer all questions on the form to the best of your ability. If a question does not apply to you, write “N/A” (not applicable).
Provide Accurate Information: Ensure that all information you provide is accurate and consistent with your other immigration documents.
Sign and Date the Form: Don’t forget to sign and date the form. An unsigned form will be rejected by USCIS.

4.2. Part 1: Reason for Applying

In Part 1, you must indicate the reason you are applying for employment authorization. Select the appropriate box based on your situation:

1.a. Initial Permission to Accept Employment: Choose this option if you are applying for employment authorization for the first time.
1.b. Renewal of My Permission to Accept Employment: Select this option if you are renewing your existing employment authorization.
1.c. Replacement of Lost, Stolen, or Damaged Employment Authorization Document: Choose this option if you need to replace your EAD because it was lost, stolen, or damaged.

4.3. Part 2: Information About You

In Part 2, provide your personal information accurately:

1.a. Family Name (Last Name): Enter your last name as it appears on your immigration documents.
1.b. Given Name (First Name): Enter your first name as it appears on your immigration documents.
1.c. Middle Name: Enter your middle name, if you have one.
2. Other Names Used (if any): If you have used any other names in the past, provide them here.
3. U.S. Mailing Address: Enter your current U.S. mailing address. This is where USCIS will send your EAD and other correspondence.
4. Is your current mailing address the same as your physical address?: Indicate whether your mailing address is the same as your physical address.
5. Physical Address (if different from mailing address): If your physical address is different from your mailing address, provide it here.
6. Gender: Indicate your gender.
7. Marital Status: Indicate your marital status.
8. Date of Birth (mm/dd/yyyy): Enter your date of birth in the format mm/dd/yyyy.
9. City of Birth: Enter the city where you were born.
10. Country of Birth: Enter the country where you were born.
11. Country of Citizenship or Nationality: Enter your country of citizenship or nationality.
12. Form I-94 Arrival-Departure Record Number: Enter your Form I-94 Arrival-Departure Record Number, which can be found on your I-94 card or online.
13. Passport or Travel Document Number: Enter your passport or travel document number.
14. Social Security Number (if any): If you have a Social Security Number, enter it here.
15. Alien Registration Number (A-Number) or USCIS Online Account Number (if any): If you have an Alien Registration Number or USCIS Online Account Number, enter it here.

4.4. Part 3: Applicant’s Statement, Contact Information, Declaration, and Signature

In Part 3, you must certify that the information you have provided is true and correct.

Applicant’s Statement: Read the applicant’s statement carefully and select the appropriate box to indicate whether you can read and understand English. If you need assistance, you can have someone translate the form for you.
Applicant’s Contact Information: Provide your daytime phone number, mobile phone number (if any), and email address.
Declaration and Signature: Sign and date the form to certify that the information you have provided is true and correct. If you are under 14 years of age, your parent or legal guardian must sign the form on your behalf.

4.5. Part 4: Information About Your Eligibility Category

In Part 4, you must provide information about your eligibility category for employment authorization. This is one of the most important sections of the form, as it determines whether you qualify for an EAD.

27. ( ) I am applying for employment authorization under one of the following categories: Select the appropriate eligibility category from the list provided. Refer to Section 3 of this guide for more information about the different eligibility categories.
Provide Additional Information: Depending on the eligibility category you select, you may need to provide additional information, such as your Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS) number, asylum application receipt number, or other relevant details.

4.6. Part 5: (c)(26) Parolees

If you are an Afghan parolee applying for employment authorization, complete Part 5.

4.7. Part 6: Additional Information

If you need to provide additional information that does not fit in the previous sections of the form, use Part 6. Be sure to clearly indicate which question number you are referring to.

4.8. Review and Submit

Before submitting Form I-765, carefully review all of your responses to ensure that they are accurate and complete. Make sure you have included all required documentation and the correct filing fee.

4.9. Key Takeaway

Filling out Form I-765 requires careful attention to detail and a thorough understanding of your eligibility category. By following this step-by-step guide and seeking assistance from WHAT.EDU.VN if needed, you can increase your chances of a successful application for employment authorization.

5. What Documents are Required When Filing Form I-765?

Gathering the necessary documents is a critical step in the Form I-765 application process. The specific documents required will vary depending on your eligibility category, but here are some common documents that may be needed:

5.1. General Documents

Copy of Form I-94 Arrival-Departure Record: Include a copy of your Form I-94, which shows your admission or parole into the United States. You can obtain a copy of your I-94 online from the CBP website.
Copy of Passport or Travel Document: Provide a copy of your passport or travel document, including the biographical page and any pages with U.S. visas or entry stamps.
Passport-Style Photos: Include two passport-style photos of yourself taken within the past 30 days. The photos must meet USCIS guidelines, including size, background, and facial expression requirements.
Copy of Previous Employment Authorization Document (if applicable): If you are applying for a renewal or replacement of your EAD, include a copy of your previous EAD.

5.2. Category-Specific Documents

In addition to the general documents listed above, you may need to provide documents specific to your eligibility category:

5.2.1. F-1 Students Seeking OPT

Copy of Form I-20, Certificate of Eligibility for Nonimmigrant Student Status: Include a copy of your Form I-20, which is issued by your designated school official (DSO). The I-20 must be properly endorsed for OPT by your DSO.
Evidence of Degree or Enrollment: Provide evidence that you are currently enrolled in a degree program or have completed your degree requirements. This may include a copy of your transcript or diploma.

5.2.2. Asylum Seekers

Copy of Form I-589, Application for Asylum and Withholding of Removal: Include a copy of your Form I-589 receipt notice or other evidence that you have filed an asylum application with USCIS.

5.2.3. Adjustment of Status Applicants

Copy of Form I-485, Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status: Include a copy of your Form I-485 receipt notice or other evidence that you have filed an application to adjust your status.

5.2.4. DACA Applicants

Evidence of Meeting DACA Requirements: Provide evidence that you meet the requirements for DACA, including documentation of your age, education, and residency in the United States.

5.2.5. TPS Applicants

Evidence of Nationality and Continuous Residence: Include evidence that you are a national of a designated country and have been continuously residing in the United States since the date specified in the TPS designation for your country.

5.2.6. T Visa Applicants

Evidence of T Visa Eligibility: Provide evidence that you meet the requirements for T nonimmigrant status, including documentation of your trafficking experience and cooperation with law enforcement.

5.3. Translation Requirements

If any of your documents are in a foreign language, you must include a certified English translation along with the original document. The translation must be complete and accurate, and it must be accompanied by a certificate from the translator attesting to their competence and the accuracy of the translation.

5.4. Key Takeaway

Gathering the correct documents is essential for a successful Form I-765 application. Be sure to review the instructions for Form I-765 carefully and consult with an immigration attorney or seek guidance at WHAT.EDU.VN to ensure that you have all the necessary documentation for your specific eligibility category. Submitting incomplete or inaccurate documentation can lead to delays or denials in your application.

6. Where to File Form I-765?

Knowing where to file Form I-765 is essential to ensure that your application is properly received and processed by USCIS. The filing location depends on your eligibility category and where you live. Here’s a general guide to help you determine where to send your Form I-765:

6.1. Review USCIS Instructions

The most reliable way to determine the correct filing location is to consult the instructions for Form I-765 on the USCIS website. The instructions provide specific filing addresses based on your eligibility category and other factors. Filing your application at the wrong location can cause delays or rejection of your application.

6.2. Filing Addresses Based on Eligibility Category

The USCIS instructions typically list different filing addresses for various eligibility categories. Here are some examples of common categories and their potential filing locations:

F-1 Students Seeking OPT: F-1 students applying for OPT may need to file their Form I-765 with a USCIS Service Center that has jurisdiction over their school’s location. The specific Service Center will be listed in the Form I-765 instructions.
Asylum Seekers: Asylum seekers filing Form I-765 may need to send their application to a specific USCIS Lockbox facility, depending on their current address.
Adjustment of Status Applicants: Individuals filing Form I-765 concurrently with Form I-485 (Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status) typically file both forms together at the location specified for Form I-485.
DACA Applicants: DACA applicants may need to file their Form I-765 with a specific USCIS Service Center or Lockbox facility, as indicated in the Form I-765 instructions.

6.3. USCIS Lockbox Facilities

USCIS uses Lockbox facilities to efficiently process certain types of applications and petitions. Lockbox facilities are secure locations where USCIS receives and initially processes applications before forwarding them to the appropriate Service Center for adjudication.

When the Form I-765 instructions direct you to file at a USCIS Lockbox facility, it’s essential to follow the instructions carefully and include all required documentation and the correct filing fee.

6.4. Online Filing

In some cases, USCIS may allow you to file Form I-765 online through the USCIS website. Online filing can offer several advantages, including:

Convenience: You can file your application from anywhere with an internet connection.
Efficiency: Online applications are often processed more quickly than paper applications.
Tracking: You can track the status of your online application through your USCIS online account.

Check the USCIS website to see if online filing is available for your eligibility category.

6.5. Key Takeaway

Determining the correct filing location for Form I-765 is crucial to ensure that your application is properly processed. Always consult the USCIS instructions for Form I-765 and follow the filing directions specific to your eligibility category and location. Filing at the wrong location can result in delays or rejection of your application. If you have questions about where to file, seek guidance from an immigration attorney or visit WHAT.EDU.VN for assistance.

7. What is the Filing Fee for Form I-765?

Understanding the filing fee for Form I-765 is essential before submitting your application. The fee can change, so it’s important to verify the current amount on the USCIS website or in the Form I-765 instructions. Here’s what you need to know:

7.1. Current Filing Fee

As of the last update, the filing fee for Form I-765 is $410. However, it is subject to change, so you should always check the USCIS website or the Form I-765 instructions for the most up-to-date information.

7.2. How to Pay the Fee

You can pay the filing fee for Form I-765 using one of the following methods:

Money Order: You can pay with a money order payable to the U.S. Department of Homeland Security. Be sure to write your name and Alien Registration Number (A-Number), if any, on the money order.
Personal Check or Cashier’s Check: You can pay with a personal check or cashier’s check payable to the U.S. Department of Homeland Security. Be sure to write your name and A-Number, if any, on the check.
Credit Card: If you are filing Form I-765 online, you can pay the filing fee with a credit card.

7.3. Fee Exemptions

In some cases, you may be eligible for a fee exemption, which means you do not have to pay the filing fee. Fee exemptions are typically granted to individuals who demonstrate an inability to pay the fee.

To request a fee exemption, you must submit Form I-912, Request for Fee Waiver, along with your Form I-765. You will need to provide evidence of your inability to pay the fee, such as documentation of your income, assets, and expenses.

7.4. Biometric Services Fee

In addition to the filing fee for Form I-765, you may also need to pay a biometric services fee. This fee covers the cost of collecting your fingerprints, photograph, and signature. As of the last update, the biometric services fee is $85.

However, the biometric services fee is not required for all eligibility categories. Check the Form I-765 instructions to determine whether you need to pay this fee.

7.5. Consequences of Not Paying the Fee

If you do not pay the filing fee or request a fee exemption, USCIS will reject your Form I-765 application. This can delay your ability to obtain employment authorization and may have other negative consequences.

7.6. Key Takeaway

The filing fee for Form I-765 is an important consideration when applying for employment authorization. Be sure to verify the current fee amount, pay the fee using an accepted method, and consider whether you are eligible for a fee exemption. Failure to pay the fee can result in rejection of your application. For the most up-to-date information on fees and payment methods, consult the USCIS website or seek guidance at WHAT.EDU.VN.

8. How Long Does it Take to Process Form I-765?

Understanding the processing time for Form I-765 is crucial for planning your employment and financial future. Processing times can vary significantly depending on the eligibility category, USCIS workload, and other factors. Here’s what you need to know:

8.1. Processing Time Variability

USCIS processing times for Form I-765 can vary widely. Some applications may be processed in a few months, while others may take much longer. Processing times are subject to change, so it’s important to check the USCIS website for the most up-to-date information.

8.2. Factors Affecting Processing Time

Several factors can affect the processing time for Form I-765, including:

Eligibility Category: Some eligibility categories may be processed more quickly than others. For example, applications for STEM OPT extensions may be prioritized due to the demand for workers in STEM fields.
USCIS Workload: Processing times can be affected by the overall workload at USCIS Service Centers. If a Service Center is experiencing a backlog of applications, processing times may be longer.
Completeness and Accuracy of Application: Incomplete or inaccurate applications can take longer to process, as USCIS may need to request additional information from you.
Background Checks: USCIS conducts background checks on all applicants for employment authorization. If your background check reveals any issues, it can delay the processing of your application.

8.3. Checking Processing Times

You can check the estimated processing times for Form I-765 on the USCIS website. USCIS provides processing time information for each Service Center and for different eligibility categories.

To check processing times, visit the USCIS website and navigate to the “Check Case Processing Times” page. Select the appropriate Service Center and form type (I-765) to view the estimated processing times for your eligibility category.

8.4. Case Status Online

You can also check the status of your Form I-765 application online using the USCIS Case Status Online tool. To use this tool, you will need your receipt number, which is a 13-digit number that begins with three letters (e.g., EAC, WAC, LIN).

The Case Status Online tool provides information about the current status of your application, including whether it has been received, is being processed, or has been approved or denied.

8.5. Requesting Case Assistance

If your Form I-765 application has been pending for longer than the estimated processing time, you can request case assistance from USCIS. To request case assistance, you can:

Submit an Inquiry Online: You can submit an inquiry online through the USCIS website.
Call the USCIS Contact Center: You can call the USCIS Contact Center at 1-800-375-5283.

When requesting case assistance, be sure to have your receipt number and other relevant information about your application available.

8.6. Key Takeaway

The processing time for Form I-765 can vary significantly, so it’s important to check the USCIS website for the most up-to-date information and to monitor the status of your application online. If your application has been pending for longer than the estimated processing time, you can request case assistance from USCIS. For personalized guidance and answers to your questions, visit what.edu.vn.

9. What Happens After Form I-765 is Approved?

Receiving approval for your Form I-765 is a significant step toward achieving your employment goals in the United States. Here’s what typically happens after your application is approved:

9.1. Receipt of Employment Authorization Document (EAD)

Once your Form I-765 is approved, USCIS will issue you an Employment Authorization Document (EAD), also known as a work permit. The EAD is a card that serves as proof of your permission to work in the U.S.

The EAD will include your photograph, name, date of birth, A-Number (if any), and the validity period of your employment authorization. The validity period indicates the dates during which you are authorized to work in the U.S.

9.2. Verification of Information on EAD

When you receive your EAD, carefully verify that all the information on the card is accurate. Check your name, date of birth, A-Number, and the validity period to ensure there are no errors.

If you find any errors on your EAD, contact USCIS immediately to request a correction. You may need to submit Form I-765 again to request a replacement EAD with the correct information.

9.3. Employment Eligibility Verification (Form I-9)

Once you have your EAD, you can use it to complete Form I-9, Employment Eligibility Verification, with your employer. Form I-9 is used by employers to verify the identity and employment eligibility of their employees.

When completing Form I-9, you will need to provide your EAD and other documents to prove your identity and employment authorization. Your employer will review these documents and complete Form I-9 to certify that you are authorized to work in the U.S.

9.4. Social Security Number (SSN)

If you do not already have a Social Security Number (SSN), you may need to apply for one after receiving your EAD. You can apply for an SSN at a Social Security Administration (SSA) office.

To apply for an SSN, you will need to provide your EAD, passport, and other documents to prove your identity and employment authorization. The SSA will issue you a Social Security card, which you can use for employment and other purposes.

9.5. Compliance with Immigration Laws

While you have employment authorization, it’s important to comply with all U.S. immigration laws and regulations. This includes:

Maintaining your underlying immigration status.
Adhering to any restrictions on your employment authorization.
Renewing your employment authorization before it expires.

Failure to comply with immigration laws can have serious consequences, including loss of employment authorization and deportation.

9.6. Renewal of Employment Authorization

In most cases, employment authorization is granted for a limited time. If you want to continue working in the U.S. after your EAD expires, you will need to renew your employment authorization by filing Form I-765 again.

You should file your renewal application well in advance of your EAD’s expiration date to avoid a lapse in employment authorization