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
Your EAD card will be mailed. It typically arrives within 7-14 days. You can start working as soon as you receive the physical card.
Typical timeline
After your I-765 is approved, the physical EAD card is typically mailed within 7-14 business days. Total I-765 processing times vary from 3-7 months for most applicants.
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If you're stuck on this status
If your EAD approval is showing but the card hasn't arrived after 30 days, submit a service request through my.uscis.gov or call 1-800-375-5283. EAD cards not received within 30 days of mailing may need to be replaced.
What to do now
1Your EAD card will arrive by mail within 7-14 days
2You can start working once you have the physical card in hand
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.
Community average
Applicants typically wait 10 days before the next update after this status.
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?+
Most EADs are valid for 1-2 years depending on the basis of your application. Applicants with pending I-485 (adjustment of status) typically receive 2-year EADs. You should file a renewal (I-765) 6 months before your EAD expires to avoid a gap in work authorization.
What do I do if my EAD expires while I'm waiting for a renewal?+
If you filed your I-765 renewal before your EAD expired, USCIS's automatic extension policy may allow you to keep working for up to 180 days (for certain eligible categories) while the renewal is pending. Ask your employer's HR department about the automatic extension provision.
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?+
File your renewal I-765 at least 6 months before expiration (USCIS recommends this). If you're eligible for the automatic extension (generally applicants with the same underlying basis), you can continue working for 180 days past the expiration date while the renewal is pending.
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.