Form I-765: Your Employment Authorization Document
An Employment Authorization Document (EAD) is the card that proves to U.S. employers you may work legally. Form I-765 is used to apply for initial authorization, renewals, and replacements — each with different filing categories and requirements.
Working without authorization is a serious immigration violation. We file your I-765 correctly and on time to protect your employment and immigration status.
Renewal vs. Replacement
Renewal
File when your current EAD is expiring. USCIS recommends filing up to 180 days before expiration. Many categories qualify for automatic 180-day extensions while renewal is pending.
- • Same eligibility category as original EAD
- • Copy of current/expiring EAD required
- • Underlying status must remain valid
- • Biometrics appointment may be required
Replacement
File when your EAD was lost, stolen, destroyed, never received, or contains incorrect information. Different evidence requirements apply depending on the reason.
- • Police report for stolen cards (recommended)
- • Correct biographic data documentation
- • USCIS inquiry if card never received
- • No filing fee in some replacement scenarios
Common EAD Eligibility Categories
| Code | Category | Renewable |
|---|---|---|
| (a)(8) | Asylum applicant (after 150 days pending) | Yes |
| (c)(9) | Pending I-485 adjustment applicant | Yes, with auto extension |
| (c)(10) | Pending NACARA suspension applicant | Yes |
| (c)(26) | H-4 spouse of H-1B (with approved I-140) | Yes |
| (c)(33) | DACA recipient | Yes, with auto extension |
| (c)(35) | H-4 spouse of E/H/L with pending I-140 | Yes |
Automatic Extension Rules
If you file your I-765 renewal on time and USCIS has not adjudicated it before your current EAD expires, you may receive an automatic 180-day extension. Your employer can accept your expired EAD plus the I-797C receipt notice as proof of continued work authorization — but only for eligible categories.
I-765 FAQs
How long does an EAD take?+
Can I start a new job with just the receipt notice?+
What if my EAD has wrong information?+
Attorney Jacquelyn R. Goncalves personally handles every case — Connecticut and nationwide.