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How to Apply for a Work Permit USA: 2025 Guide by Top Immigration Lawyer

In 2025, the U.S. continues to offer work permits (Employment Authorization Documents or EADs) to certain non-citizens. Now, more than ever, the Work Permit is a lifeline. It is primary proof of your legal immigration status in the U.S. However, many visa types (like dependents of nonimmigrant visa holders in some categories) do not allow for a work permit. Therefore, understanding who can submit an application for work permit USA is crucial. So, who qualifies to submit an application for a work permit in the USA today?

Here’s a quick guide to who qualifies and how to apply for an application for work permit USA:

Who Qualifies for a Work Permit in 2025?

  •  Asylum seekers (after 150 days from filing, if no decision yet) ✅
  • Refugees and asylees ✅
  • TPS (Temporary Protected Status) holders✅ 
  • DACA recipients ✅
  • VAWA applicants✅
  • U and T visa applicants✅
  • Certain F-1 students (OPT/CPT)✅
  • Parolees (e.g., humanitarian parole, Cuban/Haitian parole) ✅
  • Adjustment of Status applicants (green card pending) ✅
  • Deferred action grantees (case by case) ✅
  • Certain spouses (E, L, and H visa dependents, with new automatic work authorization rules) ✅

How to Apply for a Work Permit (EAD):

  1. Fill Out Form I-765. This is available on USCIS.gov. You can file in the paper format by mailing it into USCIS or online.
  2. Attach Supporting Documents. Show proof of your eligibility category, ID (passport is best, use all the pages). Includerior EAD if applicable.
  3. Pay the Filing Fee. Some categories are fee-exempt; others may require a fee or a waiver request. Check the USCIS fee using the fee calculator at https://www.uscis.gov/feecalculator
  4. Submit to USCIS. Either do so online (if eligible) or by mail.
  5. Wait for Biometrics Appointment (if required). Sometimes, USCIS can recycle your biometrics from prior ones you’ve already submitted. They will often mail you a letter advising you.
  6. Track Your Case Online – Use your receipt number to stay updated. Register your ‘myUSCIS’ account online. Add your USCIS Receipt Number for your I-765 to receive instant updates on your work permit application.

Need help determining your eligibility? Shepelsky Law Group can guide you through the process. Contact us today for your consultation! Determine the best pathway to an application for a work permit in the USA and a Green Card in the U.S. today!