Work legally in the United States while your immigration case is pending
The right to work legally in the United States is fundamental for those in immigration proceedings. Form I-765 — Application for Employment Authorization (EAD) allows foreign nationals to obtain an Employment Authorization Document that grants them the ability to work legally and securely while awaiting the resolution of their case before USCIS.
Table of Contents
- What is Form I-765?
- Who can apply for an EAD?
- Required documents and evidence
- Step-by-step filing process
- Processing times and renewal
- Why trust Legalízate Ya?
- 📞 Contact us today
What is Form I-765?
Form I-765 is the official application to USCIS that allows certain foreign nationals to obtain an Employment Authorization Document (EAD).
The EAD is a temporary document that:
- Legally authorizes work in the United States.
- Serves as proof of immigration status to employers.
- Facilitates labor and economic integration while awaiting the resolution of an immigration case, such as adjustment of status, asylum, TPS, or visa extension.
Who can apply for an EAD?
Form I-765 may be filed by individuals in various immigration situations, including:
- Applicants for asylum or refugee status (pending I-589).
- Applicants for adjustment of status (pending I-485).
- Beneficiaries of TPS (Temporary Protected Status).
- International students in certain categories (F-1, M-1) with curricular or optional practical training authorization.
- Other immigrants eligible under humanitarian or special programs according to immigration law.
Specific eligibility depends on the authorization category assigned by USCIS.
Required documents and evidence
To correctly file Form I-765, you must include:
- Completed and signed Form I-765.
- Copy of valid identity document (passport, visa, residence card, etc.).
- Proof of immigration status or situation entitling you to employment authorization (e.g., receipt for I-485, I-589, approved TPS).
- Recent passport-style photographs according to USCIS specifications.
- Payment of the filing fee, if applicable; some categories are exempt.
- Additional documentation based on the selected eligibility category.
A complete and organized filing helps avoid delays and Requests for Evidence (RFE).
Step-by-step filing process
- Eligibility assessment: An attorney reviews the immigration situation and applicable EAD category.
- Application preparation: Gathering identity documents, immigration status, and photographs.
- Filing Form I-765 with USCIS with the corresponding fee.
- Receipt of Notice of Action (I-797) confirming that the application is being processed.
- Processing by USCIS, which may include background checks and issuance of an RFE if additional information is required.
- Issuance of the Employment Authorization Document (EAD), which usually is valid for 1 or 2 years depending on the category.
Processing times and renewal
Processing times for Form I-765 vary by category, but generally take between 3 and 6 months.
It is recommended to:
- Apply for EAD renewal well in advance of its expiration.
- Keep information updated with USCIS to receive notifications about the application status.
- Submit any additional documentation requested by USCIS to avoid delays.
Why trust Legalízate Ya?
At Legalízate Ya, we understand that the right to work legally is vital for the economic and personal stability of our clients.
Our team offers:
- Personalized advice to determine the correct EAD category.
- Meticulous application preparation to ensure it meets all USCIS requirements.
- Representation and follow-up throughout the process to minimize delays and risks of denial.
Our goal is for our clients to be able to work legally in the United States with peace of mind and security while their immigration case is pending.
📞 Contact us today
If you wish to apply for an Employment Authorization Document (EAD) via Form I-765, do not wait any longer.
Call (956) 725-9714 or visit www.legalizateya.com/en to schedule a confidential and personalized consultation.
Legalízate Ya — your trusted ally to work legally and advance your immigration process in the United States.
