Work Permit in the United States: How to apply for it and what are the requirements?

Many choose to leave their loved ones and their country to seek better opportunities. In this context, some foreigners decide to travel to the United States so that they can start a new life and also financially help their loved ones. To do this, it is important to have a work permit called Employment Authorization Document (EAD).

This document will allow you to access a job with benefits including promotion, applying for better positions, obtaining residency, among others. To learn more about the topic, Depor has prepared this article that provides information on it.

How to Submit the Form?

To apply for the EAD, you must follow the steps that we share with you below. Remember that it is important to have the required documents.

• Read the instructions of the Form I-765 (Application for Employment Authorization)
• Complete and sign your Form I-765
• Pay the filing fees, if applicable
• Provide all the required evidence and supporting documentation.

Who can apply for the EAD?

Before applying for the EAD, you must be sure that you meet the requirements, as not all foreigners can apply for this document.

• If you have immigrant status or are in specific circumstances such as being an asylum seeker, refugee, or having a U nonimmigrant visa, you are allowed to work in the United States. However, you must also demonstrate your employment authorization.
• If you have a pending Form I-485 (Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status), have a pending Form I-589 (Application for Asylum and for Withholding of Removal), or hold a nonimmigrant status that allows you to be in the United States but does not authorize you to work without previously applying for employment authorization from USCIS (for example, if you are a student with an F-1 or M-1 visa).

How much do I have to pay to apply for the EAD work permit?

There are two fees, to decide which one is appropriate you must take into account your immigration status in the United States.

• Filing fee: cost of US$410, although in certain cases it may not be necessary to make the payment.
• Biometric services: has a price of US$85.

Can I work in the USA if I don't have the EAD permit yet?

No, in addition, the risks of working without the proper permit can be serious in some cases, below we tell you what they are:

• Deportation.
• Prohibition of re-entry to the United States for 3 to 10 years.
• Complications in applying for a visa, changing immigration status, and other benefits.

What happens if you work without the EAD?

It can have negative repercussions on seeking legal status in the country and on future immigration applications. It is also essential to note that most employers will not hire individuals without a valid EAD.

What is the EAD or work permit in the United States?

It is an official government certificate that authorizes work in the United States for those who are not citizens or legal permanent residents and want to work in the country. It serves as evidence of employment authorization and is only issued once the corresponding application has been approved.