Skip to main content
This is the USCIS preview website. Visit uscis.gov for the official USCIS site.
USCIS Response to Coronavirus (COVID-19)
U.S. flag
An official website of the United States government    Here's how you know
Español
Multilingual Resources
Official Government Website

Official websites use .gov
A .gov website belongs to an official government organization in the United States.

Secure Website

Secure .gov websites use HTTPS
A lock ( A locked padlock ) or https:// means you've safely connected to the .gov website. Share sensitive information only on official, secure websites.

U.S. Department of Homeland Security Seal, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services
 
Sign In  
Access USCIS online services.
  • Sign In
  • Create Account
Sign In
Create Account
Horizontal Menu
  • Topics
  • Forms
  • Newsroom
  • Citizenship
  • Green Card
  • Laws
  • Tools
  • Contact us
  • Multilingual Resources
  • Ask Emma
Main navigation
Skip to main content
  • Forms
    • All Forms
    • Explore My Options
    • Filing Guidance
      • Tips for Filing Forms by Mail
      • Forms By Mail
      • Expedite Request
      • Preparing for Your Biometric Services Appointment
      • How to Change Your Address
      • Card Delivery Tracking
      • Paperwork Reduction Act
    • Filing Fees
      • Fee Schedule
      • Fee Calculator
      • USCIS Immigrant Fee
        • USCIS Immigrant Fee Payment Guide
        • How to Pay the USCIS Immigrant Fee
        • Identity Verification and the USCIS Immigrant Fee
        • Tips on Finding Your A-Number and DOS Case ID
      • Forms Processed at USCIS Lockbox Facilities
      • Poverty Guidelines
      • Fee Waiver Guidance
      • Additional Information on Filing a Reduced Fee Request
      • Pay With a Credit Card
    • Forms Updates
      • 2D Barcode Requirements
      • Lockbox Filing Location Updates
      • Workload Transfer Updates
    • Department of State (DS) Forms and Other Non-USCIS Forms
Breadcrumb
  1. Home
  2. Forms
  3. Explore My Options
  4. Applying for an Employment Authorization Document

Applying for an Employment Authorization Document

Two women and a man looking down and smiling.

We may issue an Employment Authorization Document (EAD) to you as evidence that you can work legally in the United States for a specific time period.

Eligibility

If you are not a U.S. citizen, you may be in one of three categories of people who are eligible to work in the United States:

  • Category 1: You may be authorized to work in the United States because of your immigration status;
  • Category 2: You may be authorized to work for a specific employer as a result of your nonimmigrant status; or
  • Category 3: You may be in an immigration category that requires you to request employment authorization.

To work legally in the United States, you must present documentation to an employer showing that you have permission to work in the United States. For more information about what documents you may show, see our Form I-9 Acceptable Documents page.

How to File

If you fall under category 1 or 3, you must:

  • Read the instructions for Form I-129, Petition for a Nonimmigrant Worker;
  • Complete and sign your Form I-129;
  • Pay the filing fee, if applicable; and
  • Provide all required evidence and supporting documentation.

Want status updates about your case? Learn how to create a USCIS online account to stay informed.

After You File

Once we receive your Form I-765, you will receive a:

  • Receipt notice confirming we received your application;
  • Biometric services notice, if applicable;
  • Notice to appear for an interview, if required; and
  • Notice of our decision.

Want status updates about your case? Learn how to create a USCIS online account to stay informed.

Forms and Fees

  • Form I-765
  • Use our Fee Calculator to help determine your fee.
Last Reviewed/Updated:
07/09/2020
Was this page helpful?
0 / 2000
To protect your privacy, please do not include any personal information in your feedback. Review our Privacy Policy.
Return to top
  • Topics
  • Forms
  • Newsroom
  • Citizenship
  • Green Card
  • Laws
  • Tools
U.S. Department of Homeland Security Seal, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services
Facebook
Twitter
YouTube
Instagram
LinkedIn
Email
Contact USCIS
U.S. Department of Homeland Security Seal

USCIS.gov

An official website of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security

Important links
  • About USCIS
  • Accessibility
  • Budget and Performance
  • DHS Components
  • Freedom of Information Act
  • No FEAR Act Data
  • Privacy and Legal Disclaimers
  • Site Map
  • Office of the Inspector General
  • The White House
  • USA.gov
Looking for U.S. government information and services?
Visit USA.gov