EAD vs. Green Card: What You Need to Know
When planning your immigration journey to the United States, most people immediately think of securing a green card. While permanent residency is a major milestone, there are other options that allow you to legally work in the U.S. while awaiting your green card approval. One such option is the Employment Authorization Document (EAD), also known as a work permit. This document allows eligible non-citizens to work in the U.S. while a permanent residence petition or certain nonimmigrant applications are pending. In this guide, the immigration attorneys at Green Card Link explain the critical differences between an EAD card and a green card, including timelines, eligibility, and benefits.
What Is an EAD Card?
An Employment Authorization Document (EAD), or work permit, is issued by U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). It grants temporary legal authorization to work in the United States for a specific period, usually one or two years, though the duration may vary depending on your immigration status.
Types of EAD Cards
There are two main types of EADs:
- Green Card–Based EAD – issued to applicants with a pending green card application.
- Standalone (Regular) EAD – not connected to a green card application but tied to another qualifying immigration status.
Green Card–Based EAD
If you have a green card application in process, you may file Form I-765 (Application for Employment Authorization) at the same time as Form I-485 (Adjustment of Status). This allows you to work legally while your permanent residency is pending.
- USCIS typically issues the EAD before the green card is approved.
- Once your green card is granted, the EAD automatically expires.
- Green card processing can take years, but most EAD applications are processed within 60–90 days.
This option ensures you can maintain employment and financial stability during the lengthy green card process.
Standalone (Regular) EAD
A standalone EAD is not tied to a green card. Instead, it provides temporary work authorization for certain visa holders and applicants. According to USCIS, you may qualify if you are:
- An asylum seeker or refugee (and their dependents/spouses)
- An F-1 or M-1 student working under STEM OPT
- A J-2 spouse of a J-1 exchange visitor
- The spouse of an L-1, H-1B, E-2, or E-3 visa holder
- An applicant under VAWA (Violence Against Women Act) or U visas (victims of crimes)
- An employee of a diplomatic mission, NATO, or international organization
- A nonimmigrant with family-based status (such as a K visa)
⚠️ Important: Meeting one of these categories does not guarantee approval. Each case has unique eligibility requirements. At Green Card Link, its immigration attorneys can evaluate your situation and confirm whether you qualify.
USCIS Update: 540-Day Automatic Extension
As of April 25, 2025, USCIS allows a 540-day automatic extension of work authorization while your EAD renewal is pending, provided you filed Form I-765 on time.
EAD Processing Time in 2025
According to USCIS FY 2025 data, the average processing time for an EAD is 2.1 months. Once approved, the card is typically mailed within 5–7 business days.
If your case is taking longer than average, you can:
- File a service request with USCIS.
- Avoid work gaps by filing early.
- Consult immigration attorneys at Green Card Link for personalized guidance.
EAD Card vs. Green Card: Key Differences
Though they may look similar, an EAD card and a green card serve very different purposes. Below is a comparison:
Feature | Green Card | EAD Card |
Status | Permanent resident | Temporary work authorization |
Duration | 10 years (2 years for conditional) | 1–2 years, renewable |
Travel | Re-entry permitted with green card | Requires separate travel document (Advance Parole) |
Family Sponsorship | Can sponsor spouse and unmarried children | Cannot sponsor relatives |
Work Authorization | Automatic | Must renew with USCIS |
Citizenship Eligibility | Eligible after residency requirements | Not eligible; must obtain green card first |
Benefits of a Green Card Over an EAD
- Permanent Residency: A green card provides long-term stability and work authorization without renewal.
- Travel Freedom: Green card holders can re-enter the U.S. after travel without needing special permits.
- Family Sponsorship: Green card holders may sponsor spouses and unmarried children. Full sponsorship rights expand after becoming a U.S. citizen.
- Path to Citizenship: Only green card holders may pursue naturalization.
In contrast, an EAD is temporary and dependent on your underlying immigration status. If your status ends, your EAD becomes invalid.
The Path Forward
While an EAD provides short-term work authorization, a green card opens the door to long-term opportunities, family sponsorship, and eventual U.S. citizenship. Navigating the differences between the two can be complex, but with experienced guidance, you can avoid delays and build a clear path toward permanent residency.
At Green Card Link, its immigration attorneys have extensive experience assisting clients with both EAD and green card applications. A consultation today can help you determine the best strategy for your immigration journey.
Green Card vs. EAD: Key Similarities, Differences, and What You Need to Know
Rights to Renew Status
Both a U.S. green card and an Employment Authorization Document (EAD) allow for renewal under certain conditions. A green card often begins as a conditional green card, valid for two years. This period serves as a probationary stage for the holder. To move forward to a standard ten-year permanent resident card, you must complete specific legal steps to remove the conditions attached.
An EAD, on the other hand, is tied to your underlying immigration status. Its validity period typically mirrors the duration of your nonimmigrant status. As long as you maintain lawful status, you can apply to renew your EAD.
Possible Deportation Risks
Green card holders and EAD holders alike can face deportation if they violate immigration laws. Although a green card signifies lawful permanent residency, it remains valid only if you continue to meet all the requirements of permanent resident status.
If a green card holder commits a deportable offense—such as drug crimes, sex crimes, terrorism, fraud, or other serious violations—removal proceedings may begin. EAD holders with temporary nonimmigrant status are similarly vulnerable to deportation. Only U.S. citizens are fully protected from removal.
What is the EAD Category C09P?
The EAD C09P category applies to individuals with a pending Adjustment of Status (AOS) application. Since most applicants file for both an EAD and Advance Parole at the same time, USCIS issues a “combo card,” also known as a C09P EAD. This work permit is typically valid for one year. If you need further clarification about C09P, an immigration attorney at Green Card Link can guide you through the details.
Disadvantages of a Green Card
One significant drawback of a green card is its long processing time. Each year, the number of employment-based and family-based green cards is capped, leading to long backlogs in certain categories.
For example:
- The EB-3 green card wait time for residents of mainland China in 2025 is projected at a minimum of four years.
- For family-based petitions, the wait can be much longer. The current F4 green card wait time for applicants from Mexico is approximately 24 years.
This backlog results from demand exceeding the annual quota. USCIS processes petitions on a first-come, first-served basis, so filing your petition early is critical.
Because of these long delays, many people rely on temporary work permits (EADs) or nonimmigrant work visas while awaiting green card approval.
Transitioning from an EAD to a Green Card
Receiving an EAD is an important milestone on your journey to permanent residency. However, it’s important to understand that an EAD is a temporary work permit, not permanent residency.
Key points to know during the transition:
- Processing times vary: USCIS is allowed up to 90 days to process an EAD application.
- Priority dates matter: Your place in line for a green card depends on your priority date, category, and country of origin.
- Green card wait time differs: Some applicants receive their green card within months of their EAD approval, while others wait years.
While waiting for your green card, you should:
- File for EAD extension about 120 days before expiration.
- Obtain Advance Parole (Form I-131) before traveling outside the U.S.
- Regularly check the Visa Bulletin for updates.
What If My EAD Has Expired?
If your EAD is close to expiring, you must renew it by filing Form I-765. You cannot apply more than 120 days before expiration. If your card has expired, you must submit a new I-765 application along with the filing fee.
If you need a replacement EAD due to incorrect information (not caused by USCIS), loss, theft, or damage, you’ll also need to file Form I-765 with the correct documentation.
EAD Renewal Guidelines
To maintain your work eligibility in the U.S., it is essential to renew your EAD on time. Failure to do so may result in a lapse of work authorization, which can affect both your employment and immigration status. USCIS recommends filing for renewal no more than 180 days before your current EAD expires.
H-4 EAD Rule
Recent policy updates allow eligible H-4 visa holders to apply for work authorization. To qualify, the principal H-1B visa holder must either:
- Have an approved I-140 petition, or
- Have been granted H-1B status under sections 106(a) and (b) of the AC21 Act.
Once approved, H-4 visa holders can:
- Work for any U.S. employer (full-time or part-time).
- Change jobs freely without affecting their H-4 status.
- Apply for permanent residency, since H-4 visas are dual intent.
H-4 EAD Timeline
The general process includes:
- Filing Form I-765.
- Submitting supporting documents proving eligibility.
- Waiting for USCIS to approve, deny, or issue a Request for Evidence (RFE).
- Receiving your EAD card, typically within 5–7 days after USCIS marks it as “card sent for printing.”
Once approved, you can legally work for multiple employers without restrictions.
Frequently Asked Questions About EADs
How long does it take to get a work permit while waiting for a green card?
Typically 60–90 days after USCIS receives a properly filed I-765.
Can I work while waiting for my EAD renewal?
Yes, if you qualify for the automatic extension (up to 540 days).
What happens if my EAD expires?
If your EAD expires without renewal, you lose work authorization and may risk your employment.
EAD vs. Green Card: Which Is Right for You?
If you are seeking temporary work authorization, the EAD is a practical solution. However, for long-term benefits, including family sponsorship, the freedom to change employers, easier international travel, and a pathway to U.S. citizenship, a green card is the stronger option.
To make the best decision, schedule a consultation with an immigration attorney at Green Card Link. They can evaluate your situation and guide you through each step of the process.
Schedule Your Consultation Today
At Green Card Link, its immigration attorneys have decades of combined experience handling complex immigration cases, including EAD renewals and green card petitions. With their support, you can simplify the process and move forward confidently.