A work permit — officially an Employment Authorization Document (EAD) — lets eligible non-citizens work legally in the U.S. You apply with Form I-765. Here’s how.
Who can apply
Many categories qualify, including adjustment-of-status applicants, DACA recipients, asylum applicants, certain students, and spouses of certain visa holders. Your eligibility category determines the code you enter on the form.
Step 1: File Form I-765
Complete the I-765 with your category and supporting documents, and pay the fee (a fee waiver may be available with Form I-912).
Step 2: Biometrics & decision
USCIS may schedule biometrics; if approved, your EAD card arrives by mail and is typically valid for 1–2 years.
How Curbside Legal helps
We prepare your I-765 with the correct eligibility category so it isn’t rejected. See immigration services or start your intake.
Curbside Legal is a document preparation service, not a law firm, not affiliated with USCIS or any government agency, and does not provide legal advice. USCIS forms are free at uscis.gov; government filing fees are separate.