Employment Authorization
Work Legally in the United States While Waiting for Your Green Card
If you are applying for a green card through Adjustment of Status (I-485) or other eligible categories, you may also qualify for an Employment Authorization Document (EAD) — a work permit that allows you to work legally in the U.S. while your application is pending.
An EAD gives you the freedom to support yourself, gain experience, and maintain financial stability during the immigration process.
Who Can Apply for an EAD?
Common categories eligible to file Form I-765 include:
- Pending Adjustment of Status applicants (I-485)
- Asylees and refugees
- Certain nonimmigrant visa holders (like F-1 students on OPT, J-2 dependents, etc.)
- Other eligible categories as defined by USCIS
Whether you’re waiting on your green card approval or qualifying through another category, we will provide you with guidance and prepare your application correctly.
What Documents Are Needed for Form I-765?
What Documents Are Needed for Form I-765?
We provide a complete checklist and help organize all documents to meet USCIS standards, reducing the risk of delays.
- Completed Form I-765
- Copy of I-485 receipt notice (if filing based on pending AOS)
- Copy of passport and visa
- Copy of I-94
- Two passport-style photos
- Any other documents specific to your eligibility category
Why Choose Oakland Oriental Group?
We are registered Immigration Consultants and Legal Document Assistants (LDA), fully bonded with the State of California and the County of Alameda. We provide affordable, transparent services for clients who do not require full attorney representation.
Our clients benefit from:
Experienced EAD Preparation
We have years of experience preparing Form I-765 applications for a variety of categories, ensuring your application is accurate, complete, and ready for filing with USCIS.
Flat, Affordable Fees — No Surprises
You’ll know exactly what you’re paying upfront. No hourly billing, no hidden fees.
Avoid Unnecessary Legal Expenses
Most EAD applications do not require an attorney. Our services cost a fraction of typical attorney fees while still providing professional-quality document preparation.
Step-by-Step Guidance
We guide you through the filing process, help you gather supporting documents, and answer your questions so your application proceeds efficiently.
Personalized Support
We provide tailored assistance to your situation — you’re never treated like a number. Your case receives real attention from real people.
Fee Overview
USCIS Application Fee (Government Fee)
$520 (general application fee)
$260 (if filing after or concurrently with an I-485 application)
$550 (asylum applicant with a pending I-589 application) (as of 12/16/2025)
Our Service Fees
General application: $180
Additional Considerations
Additional fees may apply for cases with increased complexity, such as prior deportation orders, criminal history, or other special circumstances. We will review your situation in advance and clearly explain all fees before any service agreement is signed—ensuring there are no surprises.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
An Employment Authorization Document (EAD) is a work permit issued by USCIS that allows eligible foreign nationals to work legally in the United States while their immigration status is pending.
Most straightforward EAD applications do not require an attorney.
We help clients prepare and file applications accurately, ensuring all supporting documents meet USCIS requirements.
If your case involves legal complexities or potential inadmissibility issues, we may recommend consulting an immigration attorney.
Processing times vary by category and USCIS workload. On average:
- Adjustment of Status-based EAD: 3–6 months
- Other categories: times vary by eligibility
We can check current processing times based on your specific category.
Travel while waiting for an EAD requires careful planning. If you also need to travel internationally, you may need Advance Parole (Form I-131) to avoid abandoning your pending application.
We can provide guidance on travel restrictions and how to file for travel authorization if needed.
No. You may only begin working after USCIS approves your EAD and you receive the physical card.
Working without authorization can result in penalties and affect future immigration benefits.
If USCIS issues a Request for Evidence (RFE), we will help you understand what is requested and assist in preparing and submitting the response properly.
If legal issues arise, we may recommend consulting an immigration attorney.
Yes, USCIS may deny an EAD if:
- You are not eligible under your category
- Your application is incomplete
- Supporting documents are missing or invalid
- You fail to meet filing requirements
We help minimize the risk of denial by ensuring your application is complete, accurate, and properly supported.
Getting started is easy. You can:
Email: johnny@eastbayoriental.com
Phone: 510-626-0770
For immediate assistance, use the live chat on our website.
If you’re local, visit us at:
373 9th St, Suite #504
Oakland, CA 94607
Walk-ins are welcome, but contacting us first ensures we understand your needs and can provide the most efficient assistance.