Renewing your Employment Authorization Document (EAD) is a crucial step to maintain your legal right to work in the United States. The process involves filing Form I-765 with the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), selecting “Renewal of EAD” as your purpose, and including a copy of your current EAD card.
When submitting your renewal, you must also provide supporting evidence such as:
- A copy of your current EAD card
- A copy of your I-94 record, passport, or other valid travel document
- Two recent passport-style photos
- A government-issued photo ID
- If you are applying as part of a pending I-485 Adjustment of Status, include your Form I-485 receipt notice
EAD renewal processing typically takes around two months, though exact timelines depend on your immigration category and which USCIS service center is handling your case. Some applicants may also qualify for an automatic 540-day extension while their renewal is pending.
Remember, your EAD card has an expiration date. Begin your renewal well before it expires to avoid any lapse in work authorization. The guide below explains everything you need to know about the EAD renewal process, Form I-765 fees, processing times, and more.
Employment Authorization (I-765) Renewal Process
Your work authorization is only valid until the expiration date printed on your EAD card. Failing to renew in time could lead to employment interruptions and unnecessary stress. To avoid delays, start your renewal six months (180 days) before your current EAD expires.
Step 1: File Form I-765 – Work Permit Renewal
Renewing your EAD follows the same basic process as your original application. On Form I-765, you must clearly indicate that your purpose is a “Renewal of EAD”, not an initial request or a replacement.
When filing:
- Fill out all required sections accurately
- Attach a copy of your current EAD card
- Review your form for completeness
- Sign and date the application before submission
Incomplete applications or missing documentation can result in denial or rejection, so review your package carefully before filing.
Step 2: Gather EAD Renewal Supporting Documents
When you file your I-765 renewal, include the following:
- Copy of your current EAD card
- Copy of your I-94, electronic printout, passport, or travel document
- Two identical passport photographs (meeting USCIS specifications)
- Evidence of a pending I-485 Adjustment of Status, if applicable
- Copy of a valid government-issued ID
If you’re unsure which documents apply to your case, an immigration attorney at Green Card Link can review your file to ensure everything is complete before submission.
EAD Renewal Processing Time
On average, USCIS takes about two months to process an EAD (Form I-765) renewal, but this can vary depending on your visa type and service center location. For example:
- H-4 spouses filing with Form I-539 at the California Service Center: approximately 4.5 months
- F-1 students filing at the Potomac Service Center: around 4 months
- Refugees applying at the Nebraska Service Center: as little as 1 week
Processing times are estimates and may change. For the most accurate updates, check the USCIS Processing Time Tool directly on the USCIS website.
I-765 Filing Fees
The current filing fee for renewing your work permit depends on how you file:
- E-Filing: $470
- Paper Filing: $520
Payments can be made securely through pay.gov using a credit card, debit card, or bank account transfer. Always verify that you’re on the official USCIS.gov website before submitting payment to avoid scams.
Some applicants may qualify for fee waivers based on financial hardship.
I-765 Fee Waiver
If you’re unable to afford the filing fee, USCIS allows you to request a fee waiver by submitting a written explanation and supporting documentation showing your financial or medical hardship. To apply:
- Write a letter requesting an I-765 filing fee exemption and explain your reasons
- Include documents that prove your inability to pay (such as income statements or medical records)
- Sign and date your request in English
- Mail your fee waiver request to USCIS with your I-765 application
You may also file Form I-912, Request for Fee Waiver, for a more formal process. The USCIS will review your request and may ask for additional evidence before granting approval.
For guidance on preparing a strong waiver request, the immigration attorneys at Green Card Link can help ensure your submission meets USCIS standards.
Automatic Employment Authorization Document (EAD) Extensions
To help minimize employment interruptions caused by USCIS processing delays, the U.S. government has implemented automatic 540-day EAD extensions for eligible renewal applicants. This temporary measure ensures that qualified workers can continue employment while their renewal applications are pending.
EAD Extension Eligibility
To qualify for an automatic work permit extension, your Form I-797C, Notice of Action—the receipt notice for your pending Form I-765—must meet the following requirements:
- The “Received Date” on your I-797C must be before the “Card Expires” date listed on your current EAD.
- The I-797C must have a “Received Date” on or after May 4, 2022, or have been pending on May 4, 2022, if filed earlier.
- Your renewal application must fall under a category eligible for automatic extension (see below).
- The category listed on your current EAD must match the “Eligibility Category” or “Class Requested” indicated on your I-797C. (Some exceptions apply, as outlined below.)
Categories Eligible for Automatic EAD Extensions
Code | Description | Extension Length |
A03 | Refugee | Up to 540 days |
A05 | Asylee | Up to 540 days |
A07 | N-8 or N-9 | Up to 540 days |
A08 | Citizen of Micronesia, Marshall Islands, or Palau | Up to 540 days |
A10 | Withholding of Deportation or Removal Granted | Up to 540 days |
A12 | Temporary Protected Status (TPS) Granted | Up to 540 days (see TPS details below) |
A17 | Spouse of principal E nonimmigrant (E-1S, E-2S, or E-3S) | Up to 540 days, or until I-94 expiration, whichever is sooner |
A18 | Spouse of principal L-1 nonimmigrant (L-2 or L-2S) | Up to 540 days, or until I-94 expiration, whichever is sooner |
C08 | Asylum Application Pending | Up to 540 days |
C09 | Adjustment of Status Applicant (INA §245) | Up to 540 days |
C10 | Suspension of Deportation or Cancellation of Removal Applicants | Up to 540 days |
C16 | Continuous Residence Adjustment (since Jan. 1, 1972) | Up to 540 days |
C19 | TPS Prima Facie Eligible (Temporary Treatment Benefit) | Up to 540 days |
C20 | Section 210 Legalization (Pending I-700) | Up to 540 days |
C22 | Section 245A Legalization (Pending I-687) | Up to 540 days |
C24 | LIFE Legalization | Up to 540 days |
C26 | Spouse of H-1B Nonimmigrant (H-4 status) | Up to 540 days, or until I-94 expiration, whichever is sooner |
C31 | VAWA Self-Petitioner | Up to 540 days |
Understanding Work Permits (Form I-765 Employment Authorization)
Immigrants enter the United States under various visa categories—visitor, student, marriage-based, or employment-based. Once in the U.S., many individuals seek authorization to work legally. The Employment Authorization Document (EAD), obtained through Form I-765, serves as official proof that you are permitted to work in the U.S.
Regardless of your background or skills, no U.S. employer can hire you without a valid EAD. Employment without authorization can lead to severe immigration consequences.
How Long Is a Work Permit Valid?
The validity of an EAD depends on your underlying immigration status. Typically, the USCIS issues EADs valid for one year, though renewal is often permitted.
In certain cases—such as green card applicants awaiting visa availability (AOS applicants) or asylum seekers—the EAD may be issued with a two-year validity period. To qualify for a two-year card, applicants must generally have an approved Form I-140 petition.
When to File for Work Permit Renewal
If your work permit is valid for one or two years, you can apply for renewal up to four months (120 days) before it expires. The expiration date is printed on the front of your card. Renewal can be completed online using the latest Form I-765 or by mailing a paper form.
Even if you anticipate receiving your green card soon, filing for renewal is strongly advised. Unexpected delays can occur, and working without valid authorization may lead to penalties or status issues.
Work Permit Renewal FAQs
What If My I-765 Renewal Is Delayed?
After filing, USCIS will send a receipt notice (Form I-797C) confirming your submission—keep this for your records. You may be asked to attend a biometrics appointment at a local Application Support Center.
While waiting, you can track your case online using your receipt number. If more than 90 days pass without a decision, contact USCIS for an update or request expedited processing. Always review your original submission to ensure all required documentation was provided.
What If My Work Permit Expires Before Renewal Approval?
Due to growing USCIS processing times, renewals may take longer than expected. File your renewal early to avoid job loss or unauthorized employment risks. Working without a valid EAD could jeopardize future immigration benefits, including adjustment of status or naturalization.
Once your renewal is filed, USCIS typically issues an automatic extension notice, giving you up to six additional months of work authorization. Consult an immigration attorney at Green Card Link to confirm your eligibility for continued employment.
What If My EAD Renewal Is Denied?
If your renewal is denied, USCIS will provide a written explanation. A denial can interrupt your ability to work legally in the U.S., so it is critical to consult an immigration attorney at Green Card Link immediately.
You may be able to file a motion to reopen (if new evidence exists) or a motion to reconsider (if the law was misapplied). In either case, strong supporting documentation is vital. The Administrative Appeals Office (AAO) will review your motion and issue a decision.
Working with experienced immigration attorneys at Green Card Link can help you evaluate your options and strengthen your case for success.
Work Permit Renewal vs. Replacement
There is an important distinction between renewing an EAD and replacing it:
Work Permit Renewal
You must renew your EAD if it is about to expire or has already expired while you remain eligible to work. File a new Form I-765 and pay the required filing fee (unless a fee waiver is granted).
Work Permit Replacement
You will need to request a replacement EAD if
- Your card was lost, stolen, or destroyed, or
- Your EAD contains incorrect information.
If the error was made by you, submit a new I-765, pay the fee, and include your incorrect card.
If the error was caused by USCIS, you will not need to pay a fee. Simply send:
- The original card with the error,
- A written explanation, and
- Documentation verifying the correct information.
How Green Card Link Can Help
Delays and denials of I-765 applications have become increasingly common in recent years. To avoid setbacks, it is essential to work with knowledgeable immigration attorneys who understand USCIS procedures and can guide you through every step.
At Green Card Link, its immigration attorneys specialize in helping clients prepare, file, and expedite their EAD renewal applications. Whether you’re renewing your work permit, applying for the first time, or facing a denial, the attorneys at Green Card Link will ensure your case is handled with precision and care.
Contact Green Card Link today to schedule a consultation and secure your continued authorization to work legally in the United States.
Delays and denials of I-765 applications have become increasingly common in recent years. To avoid setbacks, it is essential to work with knowledgeable immigration attorneys who understand USCIS procedures and can guide you through every step.