Green Card & EAD: What You Need to Work Legally in the U.S.

If you are planning to get a green card in the United States, you should also know about the Employment Authorization Document (EAD). It is necessary for any employer in the US to ensure that all their employees are authorized to work in this country. Therefore, it is important that you understand your eligibility and follow the right process to get a green card and employment authorization document. If you are already prepared, then this process can be much easier and faster for you.

Green Card Process and Required Documents

According to the US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), the Employment Authorization Document (EAD – Form I-766) is the most common way to certify that you are allowed to work in the US. However, this document is valid for a certain period of time, and you have to apply for it by filling out Form I-765 (Application for Employment Authorization).

Whether you need an EAD depends on your immigration status and personal circumstances. If you’re not sure whether you should apply, take a look at the cases below.

Who must apply for an EAD?

Generally, you must apply for an EAD if your immigration status allows you to work in the U.S. or if your personal circumstances require it.

You may need to apply by filling out Form I-765 if you:

• Are you a refugee or an asylee?
• Are a U nonimmigrant.
• Your I-485 (Application for Permanent Residence) is pending.
• Your I-589 (Asylum Application) is pending.
• You are a nonimmigrant who is allowed to stay in the US but not allowed to work, such as an F-1 or M-1 student.

However, if you already have a green card, you do not need to apply for an EAD. Green card holders are considered Lawful Permanent Residents (LPR) of the United States and do not need any additional permission to work.

Also, if you already have permission to work under a specific employer (such as an H-1B, L-1B, O, or P visa holder), you also do not need to apply for an EAD.

Process of applying for EAD

If you want to get an EAD, there are some important steps to take. Follow these steps to make the application process easier:

1. Fill out Form I-765 – This application form is available on the official website of USCIS.
2. Submit required documents – This may include proof of your immigration status, a copy of your passport, visa status, and other required documents.
3. Submit the application fee – USCIS charges a fee for the EAD application, which may vary depending on your situation.
4. Go for a biometric appointment – ​​In some cases, you may need to visit a USCIS center for your fingerprints and photo.
5. Wait for the EAD card – If your application is approved, your Employment Authorization Document (EAD card) will be mailed to you.

What is the difference between an EAD and a green card?

Both EADs and green cards allow you to work in the US, but there are important differences:

Feature	EAD (Employment Authorization Document)	Green Card (Permanent Resident Card)
Validity Period	Valid for a limited time	Grants permanent residency
Renewal	Requires renewal upon expiration	Usually renewed every 10 years
Work Flexibility	Can change employers, but with some restrictions	Can work for any employer without restrictions
Permanent Residency Status	Does not grant permanent residency	Grants permanent resident status

If you are in the process of getting a green card, you may need an EAD so you can work legally until your green card application is approved.

Time taken for EAD application

The time taken for the EAD application process depends on the category of your application and the functionality of USCIS. Generally:

• EAD application review can take 2 to 6 months.
• If USCIS requires any additional documents, the process can be longer.
• In some cases, USCIS also offers premium processing, which can process the application faster.

So, if you are planning to work in the US, apply ahead of time so that you do not face any kind of delay.

Conclusion

If you want to work in the United States and are not a green card holder yet, then the Employment Authorization Document (EAD) can be essential for you. This document paves the way for you to work legally and helps you get financial stability.

If you are in the process of getting a green card, apply for EAD as soon as possible by filling out Form I-765 so that you can plan your career in the US. Understanding the application process properly and keeping the required documents ready beforehand can make your process faster and easier.

FAQs