Application for Employment Authorization
I-765 · Application for Employment Authorization
Requests an Employment Authorization Document (EAD) for eligible noncitizens.
Median processing days
135 days
about 5 months
Typical range (80%)
60–240 days
Most cases decided within about 8 months
Approval rate
90.4%
Trailing 12 months · 2025 Q4
Source: USCIS Processing Times and official quarterly data (2025 Q4 snapshot). For reference only, not a time commitment.
Purpose and process
Common categories: pending I-485, asylum applicants, OPT / STEM OPT, H-4 EAD, L-2 EAD, TPS, and more.
An EAD is a work permit, not a status. If your EAD is about to expire while the underlying case is still pending, file a renewal promptly.
Who files it
Nonimmigrants and adjustment-of-status applicants in an eligible EAD category.
Official references
Common USCIS statuses for this form
Case Was Received
USCIS has received your filing and generated a receipt number. This is only the starting point — active review has not begun yet.
Case Was Approved
The case is approved.
Card Was Produced
A card (EAD, green card or AP) is being produced.
Card Was Mailed To Me
The card has been handed off to USPS.
Card Was Delivered To Me By The Post Office
USPS delivered the card to your address.
New Card Is Being Produced
USCIS is producing a new card for you (replacement, correction or renewal).
Frequently asked questions
How long does an EAD usually take?
I-485-based EADs are typically 3–6 months. OPT/STEM OPT swing between 2–5 months depending on season. If you are past the posted processing time, an e-Request or a USCIS call is the next step.
My EAD expired but I-485 is still pending. What do I do?
As long as you file the I-765 renewal before the current EAD expires and receive an I-797C receipt, most categories qualify for an automatic 540-day extension under current policy.
How long after Card Was Produced until it arrives?
Usually 1–2 weeks until Card Was Mailed, then 3–7 business days with USPS. If nothing moves after 2 weeks, check USPS tracking or call USCIS.
Track your I-765 case
Enter your receipt number. MyCases polls USCIS on a schedule and alerts you the moment the status changes — by email, Telegram or WeChat Work. Free forever.
General information only, not legal advice. Official USCIS notices in writing always take precedence.