Work Permit / Employment Authorization (EAD)
Form I-765 Application for Employment Authorization Document in Columbus, Ohio
What is Form I-765?
Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization Document (EAD), is used to request permission to work in the United States. The EAD card, commonly called a "work permit," authorizes the holder to work for any employer in the United States. At Asal Multi Services in Columbus, Ohio, we help clients across many eligibility categories prepare their I-765 applications correctly.
Who Can Apply for an EAD?
- Pending I-485 applicants: If you have a pending green card application, you can apply for work authorization while waiting.
- Asylum applicants: Individuals with a pending I-589 can apply for an EAD 150 days after filing.
- TPS holders: Nationals of designated countries can apply for work authorization as part of their TPS benefit.
- DACA recipients: Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals recipients are eligible for work permits.
- F-1 students (OPT): International students can apply for Optional Practical Training employment authorization.
- Certain visa holder spouses: Spouses of H-1B (H-4), L-1 (L-2), and E-visa holders may be eligible.
- Humanitarian parolees: Individuals granted parole for humanitarian reasons.
Required Documents
- Completed Form I-765
- Copy of valid passport or travel document
- Form I-94 Arrival/Departure Record
- Copy of prior EAD (if renewing)
- Two passport-style photographs
- Category-specific documentation
- Copy of Form I-485 receipt (if applicable)
Filing Process
- Determine your eligibility category
- Complete Form I-765 with correct category code
- Gather all required supporting documents
- Submit to USCIS (online or by mail)
- Attend biometrics appointment if scheduled
- Receive EAD card by mail upon approval
Automatic Extensions
Certain EAD categories qualify for automatic extensions when you file a timely renewal application. This means you can continue working with your expired EAD card and the I-797C receipt notice as proof of extended work authorization. The extension period varies by category, ranging from 180 days to 540 days.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Wrong eligibility category code: Each EAD category has a specific code. Using the wrong code causes delays or denial.
- Filing too early for renewal: You can file a renewal up to 180 days before your current EAD expires.
- Missing supporting documents: Include all required evidence for your specific category.
- Expired photographs: Photos must be taken within 30 days of filing.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to get a work permit (EAD)?
Processing times for Form I-765 vary by eligibility category. Applications filed with an I-485 typically take 3-7 months. Renewal EADs may qualify for automatic extensions of 180 to 540 days while the renewal is pending.
Can I work while my EAD application is pending?
Generally no, unless you have an existing valid EAD with an automatic extension. Some categories qualify for automatic 180-day or 540-day extensions when filing a timely renewal.
What is the cost of an EAD application?
The filing fee for Form I-765 is $410 as of 2026. However, if filed concurrently with Form I-485, there is no additional fee. Some categories such as asylum applicants also have no filing fee.
Who is eligible for a work permit?
Many immigration categories are eligible including: pending I-485 applicants, asylum applicants, TPS holders, DACA recipients, certain visa holder spouses (H-4, L-2), F-1 students seeking OPT, and humanitarian parolees.
Important Notice
Asal Multi Services is not a law firm and does not provide legal advice, legal representation, or interpretation of immigration law. Services are limited to administrative assistance, document preparation, and guidance in accordance with publicly available government instructions.
Need Help With Your Work Permit Application?
Asal Multi Services in Columbus, Ohio helps prepare EAD applications for all eligible categories. Our team speaks English, Somali, and Arabic. Visit us at 3185 Morse Rd, Ste 15, Columbus, OH 43231.