U.S. Work Permit (EAD) with Form I-765: Who Needs It, Fees, Renewal
A clear guide for asylum seekers, green card applicants and spouses: how to get and renew a work permit without a gap in employment.
In short: An Employment Authorization Document (EAD, or "work permit") is the card USCIS issues after you file Form I-765. You need one if your status doesn't already let you work, for example as an asylum applicant, a pending green card applicant or a parolee. Green card holders don't need one. As of September 2026 the general fee is $470 online or $520 on paper, with extra non-waivable fees for some categories. And since October 30, 2025, most renewals no longer get an automatic extension, so renew early.
Who needs a work permit, and who doesn't?
An EAD proves you're allowed to work; it isn't always the thing that gives you that right. Some statuses include work authorization automatically, others require separate permission.
| Your situation | Need an EAD? | Category code |
|---|---|---|
| Permanent resident (green card) | No; the green card proves work authorization | — |
| H-1B, L-1, O or similar work visa | No, for the sponsoring employer | — |
| Refugee | Authorized to work; the EAD documents it | (a)(3) |
| Asylee (granted asylum) | Authorized to work; the EAD documents it | (a)(5) |
| Pending asylum applicant | Yes, after a waiting period | (c)(8) |
| Pending I-485 (adjustment of status) | Yes | (c)(9) |
| Parolee | Yes | (c)(11) |
| H-4 spouse of an H-1B worker | Yes, if eligible | (c)(26) |
| Spouse of an E or L-1 worker | No, if the I-94 shows a code such as E-2S or L-2S | Optional |
An H-4 spouse doesn't qualify just by being married to an H-1B worker. The H-1B spouse must have an approved I-140 immigrant petition or have extended H-1B status under the AC21 law.
How much is Form I-765 as of September 2026?
Fees have changed several times recently, and since 2025 a federal law has added separate fees that can't be waived. These figures come from the USCIS fee schedule dated September 9, 2026; check it before you pay.
| Situation | Filing fee | Extra mandatory fee |
|---|---|---|
| General (initial, renewal or replacement) | $470 online / $520 paper | None |
| Pending I-485 filed with fee on or after April 1, 2024 | $260 | None |
| Pending I-485 filed with fee before April 1, 2024 | $0 | None |
| Asylum applicant (c)(8), initial | $0 | $560 |
| Asylum applicant (c)(8), renewal | $470 / $520 | $275 |
| Parolee (c)(11) or TPS, initial | $470 / $520 | $560 |
| Parolee or TPS, renewal | $470 / $520 | $280 |
| Refugee (a)(3) or asylee (a)(5), initial | $0 | None |
The extra fees must be paid separately from the filing fee, and they can't be waived even if you qualify for a fee waiver on the filing fee with Form I-912. Mailed filings are paid by credit card or bank (ACH) debit unless you qualify for an exemption.
How long is an EAD valid now?
USCIS has shortened validity for many categories, which means more renewals and more fees. These limits apply to applications pending or filed on or after the dates below; cards already issued keep their dates.
| Category | Maximum validity | Applies to applications pending or filed since |
|---|---|---|
| Refugee, asylee, withholding of removal | 18 months | December 5, 2025 |
| Asylum applicant (c)(8) | 18 months | December 5, 2025 |
| Pending adjustment (c)(9) | 18 months | December 5, 2025 |
| Parole or TPS | 1 year or the end of parole/TPS, whichever is shorter | July 22, 2025 |
Source: the USCIS Policy Manual chapter on EAD adjudication.
Is the automatic extension gone?
For most people, yes. A timely renewal used to extend the old card automatically for up to 540 days. Under an interim final rule effective October 30, 2025, people who file a renewal on or after that date no longer get an automatic extension.
- Renewals filed before October 30, 2025: may still be covered by the old extension of up to 540 days; extensions that began before that date aren't affected.
- TPS: extensions can still come through law or Federal Register notices, country by country.
- Categories where work permission depends on the EAD (such as asylum applicants and pending adjustment applicants): if your card expires before the new one arrives, your permission to work stops until it does.
Renew as early as you're allowed: USCIS encourages filing once your EAD is within 180 days of expiring. Put that date in your phone now; there's no longer an extension to cover a gap.
Check the USCIS automatic extension page for updates.
Asylum applicants: when can you apply?
Many readers from Syria, Yemen, Sudan and elsewhere ask this first. Under the current form instructions, you can't file Form I-765 until 150 days after filing your asylum application, and the EAD can't be issued before day 180; this is the "180-day asylum EAD clock."
The clock stops for delays you cause, such as missing a biometrics or interview appointment, asking to reschedule the interview, asking to transfer the case because you moved, or not bringing a competent interpreter when one is required. If you receive a "recommended approval" notice, you can apply right away.
How to file, and get a Social Security number at the same time
- Pick the right category code: a wrong code can sink the application. Pending adjustment applicants use (c)(9), but refugees and asylees who filed an I-485 keep using their own category.
- Gather evidence: the receipt notice for your underlying case, your I-94, or your grant notice, depending on category, plus a copy of any previous EAD.
- Photos: 2x2-inch passport-style photos for paper filings. Headwear worn for religious reasons, such as a hijab, is allowed as long as your full face is visible.
- Request your SSN on the form: complete the Social Security section and USCIS sends your data to SSA. Your Social Security card should arrive by mail no later than 14 days after your EAD, with no office visit.
- File online if your category allows it: it's $50 cheaper and easier to track.
Adjustment applicants can file the I-765 in the same package as the I-485, or later with a copy of the I-485 receipt notice. Filing together saves time and locks in the reduced fee shown above.
When your card arrives
- Check every detail: name, date of birth, category and expiration date. If USCIS made the error, ask for a correction through e-Request; there's no fee for a replacement caused by a USCIS error.
- Give it to your employer: an EAD proves both identity and work authorization for the Form I-9 every new hire completes.
- Set your renewal date: count back 180 days from expiration and put it in your calendar.
If the Social Security card hasn't arrived 14 days after your EAD, or you didn't request it on the form, contact your local SSA office. See our Social Security number guide.
What's the risk of working without authorization?
Working cash at a relative's restaurant or store while you wait may feel harmless, but it can cost you a green card. Under the USCIS Policy Manual, working without authorization, or beyond the scope or dates of your authorization, bars most applicants from adjusting status, whether it happened before filing or at any time in the U.S.
The main exception is immediate relatives of U.S. citizens, such as spouses and parents, who aren't subject to that bar. Don't rely on it without talking to a licensed attorney, because unauthorized work has other consequences, including tax issues and false statements on forms.
Common mistakes
- Waiting for the card to expire before renewing: most categories no longer get an automatic extension.
- Filing as an asylum applicant before day 150: the application may be rejected.
- Combining the extra fee with the filing fee: they must be separate payments.
- Using the wrong category code: read the instructions for your category first.
- Skipping the Social Security section: you lose the easy way to get your SSN.
- Relying on unlicensed "immigration services" shops: the form is free on uscis.gov, and legal advice should come from an attorney or accredited representative.
What next
With your EAD and SSN, you can open a bank account and start building credit; see our bank account guide. Know your pay rights with our minimum wage by state guide. If your application is taking a long time, read our USCIS processing times guide.
Frequently asked questions
Do green card holders need a work permit?
No. The green card itself proves work authorization; no I-765 is needed.
How much is a work permit in 2026?
The general fee as of September 2026 is $470 online or $520 on paper, and it varies by category; for example, an initial asylum-based EAD has no filing fee but a mandatory $560 additional fee.
Is the 540-day automatic extension still available?
Not for most categories. Renewals filed on or after October 30, 2025 get no automatic extension, except TPS extensions provided by law or Federal Register notice.
When can an asylum applicant apply for an EAD?
150 days after filing the asylum application, and the EAD can't be issued before day 180. Delays you cause stop the clock.
Can I get a Social Security number with my EAD?
Yes, if you complete the Social Security section of Form I-765. The card should arrive by mail within 14 days after your EAD.
How long is an EAD valid now?
Up to 18 months for refugees, asylees, asylum applicants and pending adjustment applicants for applications pending or filed since December 5, 2025, and one year or less for parole and TPS.
Official sources we reviewed
- USCIS: Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization ↗
- USCIS: Fee Schedule (Form G-1055) ↗
- USCIS: Automatic Employment Authorization Document (EAD) Extension ↗
- USCIS Policy Manual: Volume 10, Part A, Chapter 4 (EAD validity) ↗
- USCIS: USCIS Increases Screening, Vetting of Aliens Working in U.S. ↗
- SSA: Apply for Your Social Security Number While Applying for Your Work Permit ↗
- USCIS Policy Manual: Volume 7, Part B, Chapter 6 (Unauthorized Employment) ↗
- USCIS: Employment Authorization Document ↗