Applying for a Work Permit

A work permit is not the same thing as a green card. Instead, it is a photo identity card issued by U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). Work permits are connected to applications. You cannot apply for a work permit if you do not have some kind of application pending before USCIS, or EOIR (immigration court). Different applications have different rules about when someone can apply for a work permit. Speak with an immigration attorney to determine whether you qualify for a work permit. 

How to apply for a work permit in 5 easy steps:

1. Apply for an Immigration Status that allows you to work.
2. Prepare Form I-765.
3. Prepare your supporting documents.
4. Pay the filing fees. 
5. Submit your work permit application. 

Although the steps seem easy, there are questions that applicants ask. 

What application needs to be filed for a work permit? 

• Form I-765

What do I need to mail with my work permit application (Form I-765)?

• Download this checklist to make sure you have all the documents needed for your application. 

What does EAD stand for? 

• You’ll often hear a work permit referred to as an EAD, which stands for “Employment Authorization Document.” 

Are you eligible to apply for a work permit in the U.S.? 

• You do not need to be a permanent resident to get a work permit, but you need to have an immigrant or nonimmigrant visa that allows you to live and work in the United States. DACA recipients can also get work permits. Some typical categories of people who require employment authorization include asylees and asylum seekers, students seeking certain types of employment, applicants who are seeking to adjust to legal permanent resident (LPR) status, individuals seeking temporary protected status, fiancés of U.S. citizens, and more.

How much does a work permit cost? 

• In general, the fee is $410.00. However, there are some exceptions. You can calculate how much your work permit will cost using the USCIS fee calculator.

How long does it take for my work permit to arrive after I apply? 

• Initial work permits take about 4 - 6 months on average to process. Renewal work permit applications are taking 8 - 12 months on average. You can find out current processing times here.
• Your work permit may look different in the future! USCIS recently announced a new design for all work permit cards. USCIS began issuing the redesigned cards on Jan. 30, 2023. Look here to see the design. 

What is the difference between a Social Security Number and an I-Tin Number? 

• A social security number is issued by the Social Security Administration (SSA). It is an important identification documentation issued to someone in the United States. It can be used for opening a bank account, getting a driver’s license, and filing taxes. 
• An I-Tin number is issued by the IRS and is used for tax filing purposes only. As opposed to a social security number, an I-TIN does not authorize you to live or work in the United States. 

Can I renew my work permit? 

• Yes, you can renew your work permit as long as your application is still pending before USCIS or EOIR Immigration Court. 

When should I renew my work permit? 

• You should renew your work permit 4-6 months prior to your work permit’s expiration date. 

Can I still work once my work permit expires? 

• If you properly filed your renewal application prior to your work permit’s expiration date, your work permit is valid for an additional 6 months. Some work permits may be valid for an additional 540 days. To find more information about if your work permit has the 540-day extension, check here.

Can Wheeler Law help me with my initial work permit application or renewal work permit application? 

• Yes! We can assist you with work permit applications.

Each case is unique. Wheeler Law is available to answer any questions. Schedule a consultation to discuss your options and start your fight. 602-586-5625.

Follow us on social media for more tips about filing work permits.