EAD Card — Complete 2025 Guide: How to Apply for a Work Permit (I-765) Through AOS

The Employment Authorization Document (EAD), also known as the Work Permit, is one of the most important immigration benefits you can receive while your Adjustment of Status (AOS) case is pending. Many applicants cannot work legally until USCIS approves Form I-765, so getting your EAD on time is critical for financial stability, job opportunities, and everyday life in the U.S.

This guide explains everything you need to know about the EAD Card in 2025: how to apply using Form I-765, required documents, processing times, common mistakes, and how to track your case. I also share insights from my own AOS experience, since I went through the entire marriage-based process after entering the U.S. on humanitarian parole.

If you're applying for a marriage-based green card, this guide will give you a complete and clear roadmap.

What Is an EAD Card (Work Permit)?

The EAD (Employment Authorization Document) is a government-issued ID card that proves you are legally allowed to work in the United States. It is requested through Form I-765, which can be filed:

• together with your Adjustment of Status package (I-485)

• or later, if you didn’t include it initially

For marriage-based green card applicants, the Work Permit is free when filed with I-485.

Who Is Eligible to Apply for an EAD?

You may apply for an EAD if you:

• filed for Adjustment of Status (most common category)

• entered on humanitarian parole (U4U or other programs)

• hold certain visa types that allow employment

• were granted asylum or are an asylum applicant

• have TPS status

• fall under other USCIS-approved categories

Most visitors (B1/B2) cannot apply for an EAD unless filing AOS.

Where to Download Form I-765

Always download the latest version from USCIS:👉 https://www.uscis.gov/i-765

My Personal Experience Applying for an EAD

Since I filed my AOS package after entering on humanitarian parole, getting the EAD was one of my main concerns. The approval allowed me to start working, build my credit history, open financial accounts, and live a normal life while waiting for the green card.

Here’s what I learned:

• filing I-765 together with I-485 is the fastest strategy

• accurate information is critical — USCIS checks consistency between forms

• many delays happen due to missing signatures or forgetting the two photos

• your EAD category must be selected correctly

• address errors can delay delivery

If you’re applying for a marriage-based green card, expect your EAD to be one of the first approvals in your case.

How to Fill Out Form I-765 (Step-by-Step)

This section is written in a simple, practical way so you can complete the form correctly on the first try.

Personal Information

Make sure your name matches your passport.Include all previous names if applicable.Your mailing address must be correct — this is where the card will be delivered.

Eligibility Category

For marriage-based Adjustment of Status, your category is:

(c)(9) — Pending Adjustment of Status

This is extremely important.Choosing the wrong category = delays or rejection.

Previous EADs

If you ever had an EAD before (during asylum, OPT, TPS, etc.), include the card number.If not — mark “N/A”.

I-94 Information

USCIS uses this to confirm lawful entry.Check that your I-94 number, date of entry, and class of admission match your records.

Biometrics

Most AOS applicants will not need a separate biometrics appointment for EAD, because biometrics for I-485 cover it.

Required Documents for I-765 (Marriage-Based EAD)

• copy of passport• copy of your I-94

• copy of your marriage certificate (not always required, but recommended for consistency)

• two identical passport-style photos

• copy of your I-485 receipt notice (if filing later)

• copy of your parole document or visa stamp

• completed Form I-765

If filing with I-485, the documents overlap, but make sure each form has its own set.

Common Mistakes Applicants Make on I-765

This part is expanded for SEO and accuracy.

• selecting the wrong eligibility category

• forgetting signatures

• incorrect address (EAD lost in mail)

• inconsistent name spelling

• missing photos

• uploading low-resolution digital photos (for online filing)

• outdated form edition

• incorrect I-94 number

• mismatched dates with I-485

• leaving fields blank instead of “N/A”

These mistakes cause delays and RFEs.

EAD Processing Times in 2025

Processing times vary, but typical ranges:

• 2–5 months (marriage-based AOS)

• 1–2 months (asylum applicants)

• 2–8 months (humanitarian categories)

In 2025 USCIS introduced faster processing for certain categories due to backlog reductions, but times still vary by service center.

What to Expect After Filing I-765

After you submit Form I-765, here’s what will happen:

• USCIS issues a receipt notice (I-797C)

• biometrics may be reused or scheduled

• your case enters background processing

• the case tracker will show updates like:

• “Case Was Received”

• “Case Is Being Actively Reviewed”

• “New Card Is Being Produced”• your EAD is mailed to you

Benefits of Having an EAD

• Legal right to work in the entire U.S.

• Ability to apply for any job (unless citizenship required)

• Ability to obtain a Social Security Number

• Start building U.S. credit history

• Open bank accounts, credit cards, financing

• Driver’s license eligibility in most states

• Financial independence while waiting for green card

For many AOS applicants, getting an EAD changes life dramatically.

Warnings Before Filing I-765

• The eligibility category must be correct.

• Your address must be stable — USPS often fails to forward EAD cards.

• Never leave the U.S. without Advance Parole — EAD does NOT give travel permission.

• USCIS may reuse biometrics, so do not expect a separate appointment.

• EAD expires before the green card — renew early.

Checklist for Filing Form I-765 (Work Permit)

Checklist I-765.pdf

Download PDF • 1.48MB

FAQ — EAD Card

How long does it take to receive an EAD in 2025?

Most marriage-based AOS applicants receive it in 2–5 months.

Can I work while waiting for EAD?

No, you must have the approved EAD card in hand.

Can I travel with an EAD?

No. You need an Advance Parole (I-131).

What category is used for marriage-based EAD?

Category (c)(9).

Do I need a lawyer to file for an EAD?

Most applicants file without an attorney.

Does the EAD allow me to get a Social Security Number?

Yes. You can request it directly through Form I-765.