What does “Employment Authorization Document” mean?

Good news
Direct answer

Your Employment Authorization Document (EAD / work permit) was approved. You're authorized to work in the U.S.

What comes next

Follow USCIS card-production and delivery updates. Employment may begin or continue only when the applicable EAD, status, or extension rule authorizes it.

Typical timeline

I-765 approval does not create one card-delivery clock. Follow later USCIS production, mailing, and non-delivery instructions.

If you're stuck on this status

Use the USCIS non-delivery inquiry when the official instructions permit it; do not infer replacement eligibility from a generic elapsed time.

What to do now
  • 1Follow USCIS production and delivery updates
  • 2Confirm the document and dates that authorize employment
  • 3Provide a copy to your employer for I-9 verification
  • 4Note the expiration date and plan to renew well in advance
When to contact an attorney

You usually do not need an attorney for this status by itself. Consider legal help if your case is outside published processing times, you receive a confusing notice, or your facts are complicated.

Frequently asked questions

When can I start working after my EAD is approved?
You must wait until you physically receive the EAD card. The card is the actual work authorization document. The approval notice alone is not sufficient for I-9 employment verification, although it can be used in some renewal situations.
How long is an EAD valid?
Validity depends on the eligibility category and printed card. For affected category (c)(9) initial and renewal requests pending or filed on or after Dec. 5, 2025, the maximum validity is 18 months. Follow the category-specific renewal window.
What do I do if my EAD expires while I'm waiting for a renewal?
Most renewals filed on or after Oct. 30, 2025 do not receive a general automatic extension. A qualifying renewal filed before that cutoff may retain up to 540 days only if every filing-date, category, timeliness, and document condition is met. Other category-specific extensions follow their own authority.
Can I use my EAD for I-9 verification?
Yes. An EAD (Form I-766) is a List A document for I-9 purposes, meaning it alone satisfies both identity and work authorization verification. Your employer should record the card number and expiration date on your I-9.
What if my EAD is expiring and I haven't received a renewal decision?
Follow the category-specific renewal window. Filing does not itself extend employment authorization. Most renewals filed on or after Oct. 30, 2025 receive no general automatic extension; qualifying earlier or category-specific extensions require all current conditions.

Related status messages

Card Was Mailed →Advance Parole →Case Was Approved →
Official and related resources
Check your official USCIS case status →Check USCIS processing times →Compare timelines by USCIS form →Browse the USCIS status glossary →

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Related
Use the interactive decoder →See current USCIS processing times →Status: Notice Was Returned→Status: Advance Parole→Status: Notice Of Intent To Deny→What Every USCIS Case Status Actually Means (2026 Guide)→USCIS Processing Times 2026: How to Check the Official Tool→

GreenLight is an independent tool and is NOT affiliated with USCIS, DHS, or any U.S. government agency. Nothing on this page constitutes legal advice. Always verify at my.uscis.gov.