Employment Authorization Document (EAD): Who Needs One and How to Renew
In this guide
Quick answer: An employment authorization document (EAD, Form I-766) is a card that proves you are allowed to work in the United States for a set period. You generally request one by filing Form I-765. You do not need one if you are a lawful permanent resident, because your green card is your proof of work authorization.
People often assume every immigrant needs a work permit card. In fact it depends on your status. Some people are already authorized to work and only need the card as proof, some must ask USCIS for permission to work, and some never need an EAD at all. This guide sorts those groups using USCIS guidance, and explains renewing, replacing and correcting a card.
Who needs an employment authorization document?
USCIS says you will need to apply for an EAD if you:
- Are authorized to work because of your status or circumstances (for example, as an asylee, refugee or U nonimmigrant) and need evidence of that authorization, or
- Must apply for permission to work, because you have a pending Form I-485 (adjustment of status), a pending Form I-589 (asylum), or a nonimmigrant status that does not let you work without USCIS permission, such as an F-1 or M-1 student.
Who does not need an EAD?
| Group | Why no EAD |
|---|---|
| Lawful permanent residents | The green card (Form I-551) is evidence of work authorization |
| H-1B, L-1B, O and P nonimmigrants | Their status authorizes work for a specific employer |
Employers use Form I-9 to check the documents you present, and an EAD is one of the documents they accept.
How do you renew an EAD?
If you are still eligible for work authorization but your EAD is expiring or has expired, you file a new Form I-765 with the filing fee, if required, or an approved fee waiver. USCIS encourages you to file as soon as your EAD is within 180 days of its expiration date, to reduce the chance of a gap in your work authorization or documents.
How do you replace a lost, stolen or incorrect EAD?
- Lost, stolen or destroyed: file a new Form I-765 with the fee, or a fee waiver. If a card USCIS mailed never arrived, you can submit a non-delivery inquiry.
- Incorrect information, not USCIS’s fault: file a new Form I-765, the fee or waiver, the documents the instructions require, and send back the card with the error.
- Incorrect information because of a USCIS error: USCIS corrects it at no cost and you do not need a new form or fee. You can use a service request on the USCIS website for a clear typographical error, or mail a letter with evidence if proof is needed. USCIS says to return the card by USPS only, and that this takes about 30 days from when the card is received, not counting mailing time.
Common mistakes
- Waiting until the card expires. The 180-day window is there to prevent a gap.
- Applying when you do not need one. Permanent residents and some employer-specific work statuses do not.
- Sending the wrong card by courier. USCIS says to use USPS for returned cards.
FAQ
What form do I use to apply for an EAD?
Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization. USCIS says the form lists all eligibility categories.
Can I work with an expired EAD?
This depends on your category. USCIS has a separate page on automatic EAD extensions, so check it before you rely on an expired card.
Do dependants of foreign government personnel pay for a replacement?
USCIS says dependants of certain foreign governments, international organizations and NATO personnel do not pay a fee for a replacement EAD.
Key takeaways
- An EAD proves permission to work. Apply with Form I-765.
- Green card holders do not need an EAD.
- File renewals when the card is within 180 days of expiring.
- A USCIS error is corrected free of charge.
Related guides
- Form I-9: what employees need to know
- How to renew a green card
- SSN vs ITIN for new immigrants
- Your first 90 days in a new country
This page is general information, not legal or immigration advice. Confirm current rules and fees on the official USCIS site. Last updated: October 2026.
Sources
USCIS: Employment Authorization Document.