If you would like to work in the United States while visiting for an extended period of time, consult with an experienced immigration attorney before you begin your job search. Working in the United States without permission is a visa violation that can come with serious consequences.
Gireud | Hobbs, PLLC has extensive experience with the I 765 form and obtaining Employment Authorization for our clients. Read our guide for more information about the I 765 form, how long it gets approved, and what documents you need to apply for I 765 application online.
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What is EAD?
EAD stands for Employment Authorization Document, which is a work permit that lets foreign nationals work in the United States for a specific period of time.
If you work in the United States without permission, you will be violating the terms of your visa, which can have serious consequences, such as getting deported.
Who needs to apply for an EAD using the I 765 form?
Nonimmigrants in the United States who meet certain criteria, including asylum seekers, refugees, and foreign students, should apply for an EAD using the I 765 form to become eligible to work in the country during their temporary stay.
We strongly urge any foreign national to seek the help of an experienced immigration attorney before submitting any form to USCIS. All immigration-related forms are complex and have very specific requirements to meet for approval.
Documents you need to apply for I 765 application online
USCIS explains which documents you need to apply for a Form I 765 (Application for Employment Authorization) application online.
You will need the following documents and their translated versions (if applicable):
- Copy of your I 94 form, passport or other travel document
- Copy of any former EAD
- 2 passport-style photos of yourself
Depending on your visa or existing nonimmigrant status, you may need additional evidence when you submit your I 765 form. Make sure you consult with a skilled immigration attorney before submitting anything.
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I 765 Form FAQ
The normal processing time for a Form I 765 ranges between 4 to 7 months, depending on the category of the applicant and the backlog of the USCIS service center handling the application. However, this number is not a guarantee, and the wait time may be longer than expected.
After USCIS approves your Form I 765, your EAD card should be provided to you within about 2 weeks. They will mail your EAD card using Priority Mail from the U.S. Postal Service.
You can change your address online via the Enterprise Change of Address tool. To do so, go to your USCIS Online Account and finding the aforementioned tool in the My Account section of the webpage.
If you never made a USCIS online account, you can create an account by going to the USCIS website. Rarely, you may not have access to this feature. In that case, you may file a paper copy of Form AR-11 by mail to change your address, however this will take much longer to update. Either way, your immigration attorney can help.
You can fill out your I 765 form online instead of mailing it to the USCIS, but it will not guarantee you a shorter wait time. However, there are still several benefits to filing online instead of using paper mail. Filing online allows you to receive real-time alerts for your case and offers secure messaging that paper mail can’t guarantee you.
Additionally, it will drastically improve the speed at which you are able to upload any evidence that is requested of you and makes updating your personal information much easier. While it’s up to your preference to decide which option to take, the website is ultimately more efficient.
Who do I talk to for help with the process of getting my EAD?
At Gireud | Hobbs Attorneys at Law, we we provide legal advice for all immigration concerns. If you’re looking for an experienced immigration lawyer to guide you through the process of getting your EAD, then you’re in luck. Here at Gireud | Hobbs attorneys at law, we always provide you with honest answers and positive results. Contact us today to request your consultation!
