Application for Employment Authorization

OMB No. 1615-0040; Expires 02/28/2018

Instructions for I-765, Application for
Employment Authorization

Department of Homeland Security
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services

What Is the Purpose of Form I-765?

For easier reference, the categories are subdivided below.
1.

Asylee/Refugee Categories (and their Spouse and
Children

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Certain aliens who are temporarily in the United States may
file Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization,
to request an Employment Authorization Document. Other
aliens who are authorized to work in the United States without
restrictions must also use this form to apply to USCIS for a
document that shows such authorization. Review Eligibility
Categories to determine whether you should use this form.

A. Refugee--(a)(3). File Form I-765 with either a copy
of your Form I-590, Registration for Classification as
Refugee, approval letter, or a copy of a Form I-730,
Refugee/Asylee Relative Petition, approval notice.
B. Paroled as a Refugee--(a)(4). File Form I-765 with
a copy of your Form I-94, Arrival-Departure Record.

If you are a lawful permanent resident, a conditional resident,
or a nonimmigrant authorized to be employed with a specific
employer under 8 CFR 274a.12(b), do not use this form.

C. Asylee (Granted Asylum)--(a)(5). File Form I-765
with a copy of the USCIS letter, or judge's decision,
granting you asylum. It is not necessary to apply
for an EAD as an asylee until 90 days before the
expiration of your current EAD.

Definitions

Employment Authorization Document (EAD): Form I-688,
Form I-688A, Form I-688B, Form I-766, or any successor
document issued by USCIS as evidence that the holder is
authorized to work in the United States.

D. Asylum Applicant (With a Pending Asylum
Application) Who Filed for Asylum on or After
January 4, 1995--(c)(8). For specific instructions
for applicants with pending asylum claims, see
section entitled "Special Filing Instructions for
Those with Pending Asylum Applications ((c)(8))."

Renewal EAD: An EAD issued to an eligible applicant upon
the expiration of a previous EAD issued under the same
category.
Replacement EAD: An EAD issued to an eligible applicant
when the previously issued EAD has been lost, stolen,
mutilated, or contains erroneous information, such as a
misspelled name.

Interim EAD: An EAD issued to an eligible applicant when
USCIS has failed to adjudicate an application within 90 days
of a properly filed EAD application, or within 30 days of a
properly filed initial EAD application based on an asylum
application filed on or after January 4, 1995. The interim EAD
will be granted for a period not to exceed 240 days and is
subject to the conditions noted on the document. The Interim
EAD provisions apply to individuals filing Form I-765 based
on Consideration of Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals
only after a determination on deferred action is reached.

Who May File Form I-765?
USCIS adjudicates a request for employment authorization by
determining whether an applicant has submitted the required
information and documentation, and whether the applicant is
eligible. In order to determine your eligibility, you must
identify the category in which you are eligible and fill in that
category in Question 16 on Form I-765. Enter only one of the
following category numbers on the application form. For
example, if you are a refugee applying for an EAD, type or
print "(a)(3)" at Question 16.

2.

Nationality Categories

A. Citizen of Micronesia, the Marshall Islands, or
Palau--(a)(8). File Form I-765 if you were admitted
to the United States as a citizen of the Federated States
of Micronesia (CFA/FSM), the Marshall Islands
(CFA/MIS), or Palau under agreements between the
United States and the former trust territories.
B. Deferred Enforced Departure (DED)/Extended
Voluntary Departure--(a)(11). File Form I-765
with evidence of your identity and nationality.

C. Temporary Protected Status (TPS)--(a)(12) and
(c)(19). A category (a)(12) EAD is issued to an
individual granted TPS under 8 CFR 244. A
category (c)(19) EAD is a temporary treatment
benefit under TPS pursuant to 8 CFR 244.5.
To request an EAD based on TPS, file Form I-765
with Form I-821, or with evidence that your initial
Form I-821 was accepted or approved. Include
evidence of nationality and identity as required by the
Form I-821 instructions. If you are requesting
extension of TPS status, also include a copy (front
and back) of your last available TPS document: EAD,
Form I-94, or approval notice.

Form I-765 Instructions 11/04/15 Y Page 1

To register for TPS, you must file a Form I-765 with
From I-821, Application for Temporary Protected
Status, for each applicant, regardless of age, even if
you are not requesting employment authorization.
No fee is required for Form I-765 filed as part of TPS
registration. (Form I-821 has separate fee
requirements.)

3.

Foreign Students
A. F-1 Student Seeking Optional Practical Training
(OPT) in an Occupation Directly Related to
Studies: (c)(3)(A)--Pre-completion Optional
Practical Training; (c)(3)(B)--Post-completion
Optional Practical Training; (c)(3)(C)--24-month
extension for STEM (Students With a degree in
Science, Technology, Engineering, or
Mathematics) Optional Practical Training. File
Form I-765 with a Certificate of Eligibility of
Nonimmigrant (F-1) Student Status (Form I-20 A-B/
I-20 ID) timely endorsed by a Designated School
Official (DSO) (DSO's recommendation within the
past 30 days for Post-Completion OPT and 60 days
for the 24-month STEM OPT extension). If you are
requesting a 24-month STEM OPT extension under
the eligibility code (c)(3)(C), you must submit a copy
of your degree and the employer name as listed in EVerify, along with the E-Verify Company
Identification Number, or a valid E-Verify Client
Company Identification Number for the employer
with whom you are seeking the 24-month OPT
extension. You must provide this information in
Question 17 of the form

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If you have been granted TPS by an immigration
judge (IJ) or the Board of Immigration Appeals
(BIA) and are requesting your first EAD, you must
submit evidence of your IJ or BIA grant of TPS with
your application for an EAD along with a copy of
your I-821 application that the IJ or BIA approved.
You must also follow the instructions for filing your
application as described in the most recent TPS
Federal Register notice regarding a TPS designation
or extension for your country. As further instructed
in those notices, once you receive your I-797
application receipt notice, you must also send an
e-mail to tpsijgrant.vsc@dhs.gov with the following
information: Your name; your A number; your date
of birth; the receipt number for your application; and
the date you were granted TPS.

D. NACARA Section 203 Applicants Who Are
Eligible to Apply for NACARA Relief With
USCIS--(c)(10). See the instructions to Form I-881,
Application for Suspension of Deportation or Special
Rule Cancellation of Removal, to determine if you
are eligible to apply to USCIS for NACARA 203
relief.

If you are eligible, you may file a Form I-765 with the
Form I-881. See Instructions to Form I-881 for filing
location. If you file the Form I-765 separately from
the Form I-881 see "Where to File?" instructions.
Your response to Question 16 on the Form I-765 must
be "(c)(10)."

E. Dependent of TECRO E-1 Nonimmigrant--(c)(2).
File Form I-765 with the required certification from
the American Institute in Taiwan if you are the
spouse or unmarried dependent son or daughter of an
E-1 employee of the Taipei Economic and Cultural
Representative Office.

B. F-1 Student Offered Off-Campus Employment
Under the Sponsorship of a Qualifying
International Organization--(c)(3)(ii). File Form
I-765 with the international organization's letter of
certification that the proposed employment is within
the scope of its sponsorship, and a Certificate of
Eligibility of Nonimmigrant (F-1) Student Status -For Academic and Language Students (Form I-20 AB/ I-20 ID) endorsed by the Designated School
Official within the past 30 days.
C. F-1 Student Seeking Off-Campus Employment
Due to Severe Economic Hardship--(c)(3)(iii).
File Form I-765 with Form I-20 A-B/I-20 ID,
Certificate of Eligibility of Nonimmigrant (F-1)
Student Status -- For Academic and Language
Students, and any evidence you wish to submit, such
as affidavits, that detail the unforeseen economic
circumstances that cause your request, and evidence
that you have tried to find off-campus employment
with an employer who has filed a labor and wage
attestation.
D. J-2 Spouse or Minor Child of an Exchange
Visitor--(c)(5). File Form I-765 with a copy of your
J-1 (principal alien's) Certificate of Eligibility for
Exchange Visitor (J-1) Status (Form IAP-66). You
must submit a written statement with any supporting
evidence showing that your employment is not
necessary to support the J-1 but is for other purposes.

Form I-765 Instructions 11/04/15 Y Page 2

E. M-1 Student Seeking Practical Training After
Completing Studies--(c)(6). File Form I-765 with a
completed Form I-539, Application to Change/
Extend Nonimmigrant Status, according to the filing
instructions for Form I-539. You must also include
Form I-20 M-N, Certificate of Eligibility for
Nonimmigrant (M-1) Student Status -- For
Vocational Students endorsed by the Designated
School Official within the past 30 days, with your
application.
4.

1.

Evidence from your employer that he or she is a
B, E, F, H, I, J, L, M, O, P, R, or TN
nonimmigrant and you were employed for at
least 1 year by the employer before the employer
entered the United States, or your employer
regularly employs personal and domestic
servants and has done so for a period of years
before coming to the United States; and

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2.

Evidence that you have either worked for this
employer as a personal or domestic servant for at
least 1 year, or evidence that you have at least 1
year's experience as a personal or domestic
servant; and

3.

Evidence establishing that you have a residence
abroad that you have no intention of abandoning.

Eligible Dependents of Employees of Diplomatic
Missions, International Organizations, or NATO

A. Dependent of A-1 or A-2 Foreign Government
Officials--(c)(1). Submit Form I-765 with Form
I-566, Interagency Record of Request-A, G, or
NATO Dependent Employment Authorization or
Change/Adjustment to/from A, G, or NATO Status,
Dependent Employment Authorization, through your
diplomatic mission to the Department of State
(DOS). The DOS will forward all favorably
endorsed applications directly to the Nebraska
Service Center for adjudication.

B. Dependent of G-1, G-3 or G-4 Nonimmigrant-(c)(4). Submit Form I-765 with Form I-566,
Interagency Record of Request-A, G, or NATO
Dependent Employment Authorization or Change/
Adjustment to/from A, G, or NATO Status,
Dependent Employment Authorization, through your
international organization to the Department of State
(DOS). (In New York City, the United Nations (UN)
and UN missions should submit such applications to
the United States Mission to the UN (USUN).) The
DOS or USUN will forward all favorably endorsed
applications directly to the Nebraska Service Center
for adjudication.
C. Dependent of NATO-1 Through NATO-6--(c)(7).
Submit Form I-765 with Form I-566, Interagency
Record of Request-A, G, or NATO Dependent
Employment Authorization or Change/Adjustment
to/from A, G, or NATO Status, Dependent
Employment Authorization, to NATO SACLANT,
7857 Blandy Road, C-027, Suite 100, Norfolk, VA
23551-2490. NATO/SACLANT will forward all
favorably endorsed applications directly to the
Nebraska Service Center for adjudication.
5. Employment-Based Nonimmigrant Categories

A. B-1 Nonimmigrant Who Is the Personal or Domestic
Servant of a Nonimmigrant Employer--(c)(17)(i).
File Form I-765 with:

B. B-1 Nonimmigrant Domestic Servant of a U.S.
Citizen--(c)(17)(ii). File Form I-765 with:
1.

Evidence from your employer that he or she is a
U.S. citizen; and

2.

Evidence that your employer has a permanent
home abroad or is stationed outside the United
States and is temporarily visiting the United States
or the citizen's current assignment in the United
States will not be longer than 4 years; and

3.

Evidence that he or she has employed you as a
domestic servant abroad for at least 6 months
prior to your admission to the United States.

C. B-1 Nonimmigrant Employed by a Foreign
Airline-- (c)(17)(iii). File Form I-765 with a letter
from the airline fully describing your duties and
stating that your position would entitle you to E
nonimmigrant status except for the fact that you are
not a national of the same country as the airline or
because there is no treaty of commerce and navigation
in effect between the United States and that country.
D. Spouse of an E-1/E-2 Treaty Trader or Investor-(a)(17) or Spouse of an E-3 Certain Specialty of
Occupation Professional from Australia. File
Form I-765 with evidence of your lawful status and
evidence you are a spouse of a principal E-1/E-2,
such as your Form I-94, and a copy of the principal's
visa, and your marriage certificate. (Other relatives
or dependents of E-1/E-2 aliens who are in E status
are not eligible for employment authorization and
may not file under this category.)
E. Spouse of an L-1 Intracompany Transferee-(a)(18). File Form I-765 with evidence of your
lawful status and evidence you are a spouse of a
principal L-1, such as your Form I-94, and a copy of
the principal's visa and your marriage certificate.
(Other relatives or dependents of L-1 aliens who are
in L status are not eligible for employment
authorization and may not file under this category.)
Form I-765 Instructions 11/04/15 Y Page 3

F. Spouse of an E-2 CNMI Investor--(c)(12). File
Form I-765 with evidence of your lawful status and
evidence you are a spouse of a principal E-2 CNMI
Investor, and a copy of the principal E-2 CNMI
Investors long-term business certificate or Foreign
Investment Certificate. (Please note that spouse of a
principal E-2 CNMI Investor who obtained status on
the basis of a Foreign Retiree Investment
Certification is not eligible for employment
authorization and may not file under this category.)

3.

Basis for Work Authorization. Acceptable
documentation includes:
a.

Approved Form I-140. Submit evidence
that the H-1B principal is the beneficiary of
an approved Immigrant Petition for Alien
Worker (Form I-140). You may show this
by submitting a copy of the H-1B
principal's Form I-797 approval notice for
Form I-140; or

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G. Spouse of an H-1B Nonimmigrant--(c)(26).
File Form I-765 along with documentation of your
current H-4 admission or extension of stay. You
must also submit documentation establishing either
that the H-1B principal has an approved Immigrant
Petition for Alien Worker (Form I-140), or that your
current H-4 admission or extension of stay was
approved pursuant to the principal H-1B
nonimmigrant's admission or extension of stay based
on sections 106(a) and (b) of the American
Competitiveness in the Twenty-First Century Act
(AC21). For your convenience, you may file Form
I-765 with Form I-539, Application to Extend/
Change Nonimmigrant Status. However, USCIS will
not process Form I-765 (except filing fees), until after
USCIS has adjudicated Form I-539. You may also
file Form I-765 at the same time as Form I-539 and
Form I-129, Petition for a Nonimmigrant Worker.
The 90-day period for adjudicating Applications for
Employment Authorization (Form I-765) filed
together with Form I-539 does not begin until USCIS
has determined whether you are eligible for the
underlying H-4 nonimmigrant status, and that the
principal is eligible for H-1B status. Please see the
USCIS Web site at www.uscis.gov/I-765 for the
most current information on where the file this
benefit request.
1.

2.

Proof of Your Status. Submit a copy of your
current Form I-797 approval notice for Form
I-539 or Form I-94 showing your admission as
an H-4 nonimmigrant or your most recent
approved extension of stay; and
Proof of Relationship to the Principal H-1B.
Submit a copy of the marriage certificate for you
and the principal H-1B nonimmigrant. If you
cannot submit a copy of your current Form
I-797, Form I-94, or marriage certificate, USCIS
will consider secondary evidence.

b. H-1B Principal Received AC21 106(a)
and (b) Extension. Submit evidence that
the principal H-1B nonimmigrant has
received an extension of stay under AC21
106(a) and (b). You may show this by
submitting copies of the H-1B principal's
passports, prior Forms I-94, and current and
prior Forms I-797 for Form I-129. In
addition, please submit evidence to establish
one of the following bases for the H-1B
extension of stay:
Based on Filing of a Permanent Labor
Certification Application. Submit
evidence that the H-1B principal is the
beneficiary of a Permanent Labor
Certification Application that was filed at
least 365 days prior to the expiration of the
6-year limitation of stay. You may show
this by submitting a copy of a print out from
the Department of Labor's (DOL's) Web site
or other correspondence from DOL showing
the status of the H-1B principal's Permanent
Labor Certification Application. If DOL
certified the Permanent Labor Certification,
you must also submit a copy of Form I-797
Notice of Receipt for Form I-140
establishing that the Form I-140 was filed
within 180 days of DOL certifying the
Permanent Labor Certification; or
Based on a Pending Form I-140. If the
preference category sought for the principal
H-1B spouse does not require a Permanent
Labor Certification Application with DOL,
submit evidence that the H-1B principal's
Form I-140 was filed at least 365 days prior
to the expiration of the 6-year limitation of
stay and remains pending. You may show
this by submitting a copy of the Form I-797
Notice of Receipt for Form I-140.

Form I-765 Instructions 11/04/15 Y Page 4

4.

Secondary Evidence. If you do not have the
evidence listed in 1, 2, or 3 above, you may ask
USCIS to consider other evidence ("secondary
evidence") in support of your application for
employment authorization as an H-4 spouse. For
example, in establishing the Basis for
Employment Authorization as described in 3a
and 3b, you may submit the receipt number of
the H-1B principal's most current Form I-129
extension of stay or the receipt number of the
H-1B principal's approved Form I-140 petition.

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Failure to provide the evidence listed above or
secondary evidence may result in the delay or
denial of your application for employment
authorization. For additional information on
secondary evidence, see Evidence in the
General Instructions section.

6.

E. V-1, V-2, or V-3 Nonimmigrant--(a)(15). If you
have been inspected and admitted to the United
States with a valid V visa, file this application along
with evidence of your admission, such as copies of
your Form I-94, passport, and K visa. If you have
been granted V status while in the United States, file
this application along with evidence of your V status,
such as an approval notice. If you are in the United
States but you have not yet filed an application for V
status, you may file this application at the same time
as you file your application for V status. USCIS will
adjudicate this application after adjudicating your
application for V status.

7.

A. Adjustment Applicant--(c)(9). File Form I-765
with a copy of the receipt notice or other evidence
that your Form I-485, Application for Permanent
Residence or Adjust Status, is pending. You may
file Form I-765 together with your Form I-485.

Family-Based Nonimmigrant Categories

A. K-1 Nonimmigrant Fiance(e) of U.S. Citizen or
K-2 Dependent--(a)(6). File Form I-765 if you are
filing within 90 days from the date of entry. This
EAD cannot be renewed. Any EAD application other
than for a replacement must be based on your
pending application for adjustment under (c)(9).

B. Adjustment Applicant Based on Continuous
Residence Since January 1, 1972--(c)(16). File
Form I-765 with your Form I-485, Application to
Register for Permanent Residence or Adjust Status; a
copy of your receipt notice; or other evidence that the
Form I-485 is pending.

B. K-3 Nonimmigrant Spouse of U.S. Citizen or K-4
Dependent--(a)(9). File Form I-765 along with
evidence of your admission such as copies of your
Form I-94, passport, and K visa.

C. Renewal EAD for National Interest Waiver
Physicians: If you are filing for a renewal EAD
based on your pending adjustment status and an
approved National Interest Waiver Physician petition,
you must also include evidence of your meaningful
progress toward completing the national interest
waiver obligation. Such evidence includes
documentation of employment in any period during
the previous 12 months (e.g., copies of W-2 forms).
If you did not work as a national interest waiver
physician during any period of the previous 12
months, you must explain and provide a statement of
future intent to work in the national interest waiver
employment program.

C. Family Unity Program--(a)(13). If you are filing
for initial or extension of Family Unity benefits,
complete and submit Form I-817, Application for
Family Unity Benefits, according to the filing
instructions on Form I-817. An EAD will be issued
if your Form I-817 is approved; you do not need to
submit Form I-765.

If your non-expired Family Unity EAD is lost or
stolen, file Form I-765 with proper fee(s), along with
a copy of your approval notice for Family Unity
benefits, to request a replacement.
D. LIFE Family Unity--(a)(14). If you are applying
for initial employment authorization under Family
Unity provisions of section 1504 of the LIFE Act
Amendments, or an extension of such authorization,
you should not use this form. Obtain and complete
Form I-817, Application for Family Unity Benefits.
If you are applying for a replacement EAD that was
issued under LIFE Act Amendments Family Unity
provisions, file Form I-765 with the required
evidence listed in the "Required Documentation"
section of these instructions.

EAD Applicants Who Have Filed for Adjustment of
Status

8.

Other Categories
A. N-8 or N-9 Nonimmigrant--(a)(7). File Form I-765
with the required evidence listed in the "Required
Documentation" section of these instructions.
B. Granted Withholding of Deportation or
Removal (a)(10). File Form I-765 with a copy of
the Immigration Judge's order. It is not necessary
to apply for a new EAD until 90 days before the
expiration of your current EAD.

Form I-765 Instructions 11/04/15 Y Page 5

C. Applicant for Suspension of Deportation--(c)(10).
File Form I-765 with evidence that your Form I-881,
Application for Suspension of Deportation or Special
Rule Cancellation of Removal (Pursuant to Section
203 of Public Law 105-100 (NACARA)), or Form
EOIR-40, is pending.

c.

The fee for Form I-765 filed based on the
Consideration of Deferred Action for
Childhood Arrivals category cannot be
waived. Biometric collection and the
biometric services fee for Form I-765 based
on the Consideration of Deferred Action for
Childhood Arrivals category is also required
and cannot be waived.

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D. Paroled in the Public Interest--(c)(11). File Form
I-765 if you were paroled into the United States for
emergent reasons or reasons strictly in the public
interest.

2.

E. Deferred Action--(c)(14). File Form I-765 with a
copy of the order, notice, or document reflecting the
exercise of deferred action. To determine your
eligibility for work authorization, you must establish
economic necessity. USCIS will consider whether
you have an economic need to work by reviewing
your current annual income, your current annual
expenses, and the total current value of your assets.
Provide this financial information on Form I-765WS,
Form I-765 Worksheet. If you would like to provide
an explanation, complete Part 3. Explanation, of the
worksheet. It is not necessary to submit supporting
documentation, though it will be accepted and
reviewed if you choose to submit it.
F. Consideration of Deferred Action for Childhood
Arrivals--(c)(33).
1.

You must file Form I-765 with Form I-821D if
you meet the guidelines described in the Form
I-821D Filing Instructions. Enter (c)(33) in
Question 16 as the letter and number of the
category for which you are applying.
a.

To determine your eligibility for work
authorization, you must establish economic
necessity. USCIS will consider whether you
have an economic need to work by reviewing
your current annual income, your current
annual expenses, and the total current value
of your assets. Provide this financial
information on Form I-765WS, Form I-765
Worksheet. If you would like to provide an
explanation, complete Part 3. Explanation,
of the worksheet. It is not necessary to
submit supporting documentation, though it
will be accepted and reviewed if you choose
to submit it. You do not need to include other
household member's financial information to
establish your own economic necessity.

b. The 90-day period for adjudicating Form
I-765 filed together with Form I-821D does
not begin until DHS has decided whether to
defer action in your case.

If U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement
(ICE) deferred action on your case, file a standalone Form I-765 with a copy of the order,
notice, or document reflecting the exercise of
deferred action. To determine your eligibility for
work authorization, you must establish economic
necessity. USCIS will consider whether you
have an economic need to work by reviewing
your current annual income, your current annual
expenses, and the total current value of your
assets. Provide this financial information on
Form I-765WS, Form I-765 Worksheet. If you
would like to provide an explanation, complete
Part 3. Explanation, of the worksheet. It is not
necessary to submit supporting documentation,
though it will be accepted and reviewed if you
choose to submit it. You do not need to include
other household member's financial information
to establish your own economic necessity.
When completing the Form I-765:
a.

Enter "Unlawful Status: Deferred Action for
Childhood Arrivals by ICE" for Question 15.

b. Enter (c)(33) in Question 16 as the letter
and number of the category for which you
are applying.

G. Final Order of Deportation--(c)(18). File Form
I-765 with a copy of the order of supervision and a
request for employment authorization that may be
based on but not limited to the following:
1.

Existence of a dependent spouse and/or children
in the United States who rely on you for support;

2.

Existence of economic necessity to be employed;
and

3.

Anticipated length of time before you can be
removed from the United States.

H. LIFE Legalization Applicant--(c)(24). We
encourage you to file File Form I-765 together with
your Form I-485, Application to Register Permanent
Residence or Adjust Status, to facilitate processing.
However, you may file Form I-765 at a later date
with evidence that you were a CSS, LULAC, or
Zambrano class member applicant before October 1,
2000, and with a copy of the receipt notice or other
evidence that your Form I-485 is pending.

Form I-765 Instructions 11/04/15 Y Page 6

I.

T-1 Nonimmigrant--(a)(16). If you are applying
for initial employment authorization as a T-1
nonimmigrant, file Form I-765 only if you did not
request an employment authorization document when
you applied for T nonimmigrant status. If you were
granted T nonimmigrant status and this is a request
for a renewal or replacement of an employment
authorization document, file Form I-765 along with
evidence of your T nonimmigrant status, such as an
approval notice.

Signature. Each application must be properly signed and
filed. For all signatures on this application, USCIS will not
accept a stamped or typewritten name in place of a signature.
If you are under 14 years of age, your parent or legal guardian
may sign the application on your behalf. A legal guardian
may also sign for a mentally incompetent person.

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J.

T-2, T-3, or T-4 Nonimmigrant--(c)(25). File
Form I-765 with a copy of your T-1 (principal alien's)
approval notice and proof of your relationship to the
T-1 principal.

K. U-1 Nonimmigrant--(a)(19). If you are applying
for initial employment authorization as a U-1
nonimmigrant, file Form I-765 only if you did not
request an employment authorization document when
you applied for U nonimmigrant status. If you were
granted U nonimmigrant status and this is a request
for a renewal or replacement of an employment
authorization document, file Form I-765 along with
evidence of your U nonimmigrant status, such as an
approval notice.
L. U-2, U-3, U-4, or U-5--(a)(20). If you obtained U
nonimmigrant status while in the United States, you
must submit a copy of the approval notice for your U
nonimmigrant status. If you were admitted to the
United States as a U nonimmigrant, you must submit
a copy of your passport with your U nonimmigrant
visa.

M. VAWA Self-Petitioners--(c)(31). If you are the
principal beneficiary or qualified child of an approved
VAWA self-petition, you are eligible for work
authorization. File Form I-765 with evidence of your
status, such as a copy of Form I-360 approved notice.
Additionally, you may file Form I-765 together with
your initial VAWA self-petition.
N. Spouse of an International Entrepreneur Parolee-(c)(37). File Form I-765 with evidence of your
parole status, such as your Form I-94, and evidence
you are the spouse of an International Entrepreneur
Parolee, such as a copy of the principal's Form I-94
and a copy of your marriage certificate.

General Instructions

Filing Fee. Each application must be accompanied by the
appropriate filing fee. (See the What Is the Filing Fee
section of these Instructions.)
Evidence. At the time of filing, you must submit all evidence
and supporting documentation listed in the Instructions or
Required Documentation sections of these Instructions.
If a required document does not exist or cannot be obtained,
you must demonstrate this and submit secondary evidence
pertinent to the facts at issue. If secondary evidence does not
exist or is unavailable you must demonstrate this and submit
two or more sworn affidavits by non-parties who have direct
knowledge of the event and circumstances.
Biometric Services Appointment. USCIS may require that
you appear for an interview or provide fingerprints,
photograph, and/or signature at any time to verify your
identity, obtain additional information, and conduct
background and security checks, including a check of criminal
history records maintained by the Federal Bureau of
Investigation (FBI), before making a decision on your
application, petition, or request. After USCIS receives your
application and ensures it is complete, we will inform you in
writing if you need to attend a biometric services appointment.
If an appointment is necessary, the notice will provide you the
location of your local or designated USCIS Application
Support Center (ASC) and the date and time of your
appointment or, if you are currently overseas, instruct you to
contact a U.S. Embassy, U.S. Consulate, or USCIS office
outside the United States to set up an appointment.

If you fail to attend your biometric services appointment,
USCIS may deny your application.
Copies. You should submit legible photocopies of documents
requested, unless the Instructions specifically state that you
must submit an original document. USCIS may request an
original document at the time of filing or at any time during
processing of an application, petition, or request. If USCIS
requests an original document from you, it will be returned to
you after USCIS determines it no longer needs your original.
NOTE: If you submit original documents when not required
or requested by USCIS, your original documents may be
immediately destroyed upon receipt.

USCIS provides forms free of charge through the USCIS
website. In order to view, print, or fill out our forms, you
should use the latest version of Adobe Reader, which you can
download for free at http://get.adobe.com/reader/. If you do
not have Internet access, you may call the USCIS National
Customer Service Center at 1-800-375-5283 and ask that we
mail a form to you. For TTY (deaf or hard of hearing) call:
1-800-767-1833.
Form I-765 Instructions 11/04/15 Y Page 7

Translations. If you submit a document with information in a
foreign language, you must also submit a full English
translation. The translator must sign a certification that the
English language translation is complete and accurate, and that
he or she is competent to translate from the foreign language
into English. The certification must include the translator’s
signature. DHS recommends the certification contain the
translator’s printed name and the date and the translator’s
contact information.

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How To Fill Out Form I-765
1.

Type or print legibly in black ink.

2.

If you need extra space to complete any item within this
application, attach a continuation sheet, write your name
and Alien Registration Number (A-Number) (if any) at the
top of each sheet; indicate the Page Number, Part Number,
and Item Number to which your answer refers; and sign
and date each sheet.

3.

B. A copy of your last EAD (front and back). If no prior
EAD has been issued, you must submit a copy of a
government-issued identity document, such as a
passport showing your picture, name, and date of
birth; a birth certificate with photo ID; a visa issued
by a foreign consulate; or a national ID document
with photo and/or fingerprint. The identity document
photocopy must clearly show the facial features of
the applicant and the biographical information. If
you are filing under the (c)(33) category, additional
documentation beyond what you submit under
"3. What Documents Do You Need to Provide to
Prove Identity?" of the filing instructions for Form
I-821D, Consideration of Deferred Action for
Childhood Arrivals, is not required.

Answer all questions fully and accurately. If a question
does not apply to you (for example, if you have never
been married and the question asks, “Provide the name of
your current spouse”), type or print “N/A,” unless
otherwise directed. If your answer to a question which
requires a numeric response is zero or none (for example,
“How many children do you have” or “How many times
have you departed the United States”), type or print
“None,” unless otherwise directed.
We recommend that you print or save a copy of your
completed application to review in the future and for your
records.

Required Documentation

All applications must be filed with the documents required
below in addition to the particular evidence required for the
category listed in "Who May File Form I-765?" with fee, if
required.

If you are required to show economic necessity for your
category, submit a list of your assets, income, and expenses.
Provide this financial information on Form I-765WS, Form
I-765 Worksheet. If you would like to provide an explanation,
complete Part 3, Explanation, of the worksheet.
Assemble the documents in the following order:
1.

Your application with the filing fee. See "What Is the
Filing Fee?" for details.

2.

If you are mailing your application to USCIS, you must
also submit:

C. You must submit two identical color photographs of
yourself taken within 30 days of filing your
application. The photos must have a white to
off-white background, be printed on thin paper with a
glossy finish, and be unmounted and unretouched.
The two identical color passport-style photos must be
2 by 2 inches. The photos must be in color with full
face, frontal view on a white to off-white
background. Head height should measure 1 to 1 3/8
inches from top of hair to bottom of chin, and eye
height is between 1 1/8 to 1 3/8 inches from bottom
of photo. Your head must be bare unless you are
wearing headwear as required by a religious
denomination of which you are a member. Using a
pencil or felt pen, lightly print your name and Alien
Registration Number (A-Number) (if any) on the
back of the photo.and for your records.

Special Filing Instructions for Those With Pending
Asylum Applications ((c)(8))
Asylum Applicant (with a pending asylum application)
who filed for asylum on or after January 4, 1995. You
must wait at least 150 days following the filling of your
asylum claim before you are eligible to apply for an EAD.
Any delay in processing the asylum application that is caused
by you, including unexcused failure to appear for fingerprinting
and other biometrics capture, will not be counted as part of that
150 days. If you fail to appear for your asylum interview or for
a hearing before an immigration judge, you will be ineligible
for an EAD. If you have received a recommended approval for
a grant of asylum, you do not need to wait the 150 days and
may apply for an EAD immediately upon receipt of your
recommended approval. If you file Form I-765 early, it will be
denied. File Form I-765 with:

A. A copy of Form I-94, Arrival-Departure Record (front
and back), if available. If you are filing Form I-765
under the (c)(9) category, Form I-94 is not required.

Form I-765 Instructions 11/04/15 Y Page 8

1.

A copy of the USCIS acknowledgement mailer which was
mailed to you;

2.

Other evidence that your Form I-589 was filed with USCIS;

3.

Evidence that your Form I-589 was filed with an
Immigration Judge at the Executive Office for
Immigration Review (EOIR); or

You must have an asylum application (Form I-589) on file
either with USCIS or with an Immigration Judge in order to
receive work authorization. Therefore, submit evidence that
you have previously filed an asylum application when you
submit Form I-765. You are not required to submit this
evidence when you apply, but it will help USCIS process your
request efficiently.

4.

Evidence that your asylum application remains under
administrative or judicial review.

If you are renewing or replacing your EAD, you must pay the
filing fee. Mark your application as follows:

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Asylum applicant (with a pending asylum application) who
filed for asylum and for withholding of deportation prior
to January 4, 1995, and is NOT in exclusion or deportation
proceedings.

1.

Type or print "ABC" in the top right corner of your EAD
application. You must identify yourself as an ABC class
member if you are applying for an EAD under the ABC
settlement agreement.

You may file Form I-765 at any time; however, it will only be
granted if USCIS finds that your asylum application is not
frivolous. File Form I-765 with:

2.

Type or print "(c)(8)" in Question 16 of the application.

1.

A complete copy of your previously filed Form I-589;

2.

A copy of your USCIS receipt notice;

3.

A copy of the USCIS acknowledgement mailer;

4.

Evidence that your Form I-589 was filed with EOIR;

5.

Evidence that your asylum application remains under
administrative or judicial review; or

6.

A copy of the USCIS acknowledgement mailer.

Asylum applicant (with a pending asylum application) who
filed an initial request for asylum prior to January 4, 1995,
and is IN exclusion or deportation proceedings. If you filed
your Request for Asylum and Withholding of Deportation
(Form I-589) prior to January 4, 1995, and you are IN
exclusion or deportation proceedings, file your EAD
application with:
1.

A date-stamped copy of your previously filed Form I-589;

2.

A copy of Form I-221, Order to Show Cause and Notice
of Hearing, or Form I-122, Notice to Applicant for
Admission Detained for Hearing Before Immigration
Judge;

3.

A copy of EOIR-26, Notice of Appeal, date stamped by
the Office of the Immigration Judge;

4.

A date-stamped copy of a petition for judicial review or
for habeas corpus issued to the asylum applicant; or

5.

Other evidence that you filed an asylum application with
EOIR.

You are entitled to an EAD without regard to the merits of
your asylum claim. Your application for an EAD will be
decided within 60 days if you:

1.

Pay the filing fee;

2.

Have a complete pending asylum application on file; and

3.

Type or print “ABC” in the top right corner of your EAD
application. If you do not pay the filing fee for an initial
EAD request, your request may be denied if USCIS finds
that your asylum application is frivolous. However, if
you cannot pay the filing fee for an EAD, you may
qualify for a fee waiver under 8 CFR 103.7(c).

Special Filing Instructions for Spouses of E-2 CNMI
Investors ((c)(12)).
Spouses of certain principal E-2 CNMI Investors (E-2C) are
eligible to seek employment in the CNMI. An EAD issued
under this category is only valid for employment in the
Commonwealth of Northern Mariana Islands (the CNMI).
To determine if you are eligible for an EAD under this section,
you must determine what type of investor certificate was
issued by the CNMI to your spouse, the principal E-2 CNMI
Investor. If your spouse was issued either a Long-Term
Business Certificate or Foreign Investment Certificate, you
may be eligible for an EAD under this category. If your
spouse, the principal E-2 CNMI Investor, was issued a Foreign
Retiree Investment Certification, you are not eligible to
receive an EAD under this category.

Asylum application under the ABC Settlement
Agreement-- (c)(8). If you are a Salvadoran or Guatemalan
national eligible for benefits under the ABC settlement
agreement, American Baptist Churches v. Thornburgh, 760 F.
Supp. 976 (N.D. Cal. 1991), follow the instructions contained
in this section when filing your Form I-765.

Form I-765 Instructions 11/04/15 Y Page 9

File Form I-765 with:
1.

Documentation, such as a marriage certificate establishing
a legal marriage between you and the principal E-2C.
Additionally, documentation such as divorce or death
certificates establishing the termination of any prior
marriages of you and your spouse.

3.

(c)(l), (c)(4), or (c)(7) Dependent of certain foreign
government, international organization, or NATO personnel;

4.

(c)(9) or (c)(16) Adjustment applicant who applied after
July 30, 2007.

Replacement EAD. If this is your replacement application,
and you are applying under one of the following categories, a
filing fee is not required:

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2.

Documentation establishing that you reside in the
Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands.

3.

Documentation establishing that you have obtained E-2C
status as a dependent.

4.

Evidence that your spouse has obtained E-2C status.

5.

A copy of your spouse's CNMI issued Long-Term
Business Certificate or Foreign Investment Certificate.

1.

(c)(l), (c)(4), or (c)(7) Dependent of certain foreign
government, international organization, or NATO personnel.

NOTE: If you are requesting a replacement EAD under
the (c)(9) or (c)(16) Adjustment applicant who applied
after July 30, 2007 category, then the full filing fee will
be required; however, no biometrics fee is required.

Card Error:

What Is the Filing Fee?

1.

If the card issued to you contains incorrect information
that is not attributed to USCIS error, a new Form I-765
and filing fee are required. Form I-765 must be
accompanied by the card containing the error.

2.

If the card issued to you contains incorrect information
that is attributed to a USCIS error, a new Form I-765 and
filing fee are not required. Instead, you must submit a
letter, accompanied by the card containing the error to the
Service Center or National Benefit Center that approved
your last employment authorization request.

The filing fee for Form I-765 is $380.
Exceptions:

Initial EAD. If this is your initial application and you are
applying under one of the following categories, a filing fee is
not required:
1.

(a)(3) Refugee;

2.

(a)(4) Paroled as Refugee;

3.

(a)(5) Asylee;

4.

(a)(7) N-8 or N-9 nonimmigrant;

5.

(a)(8) Citizen of Micronesia, Marshall Islands, or Palau;

6.

(a)(10) Granted Withholding of Deportation;

Use the following guidelines when you prepare your check
or money order for the Form I-765 fee:

7.

(a)(16) Victim of Severe Form of Trafficking (T-1);

1.

8.

(a)(19) U-1 Nonimmigrant;

9.

(c)(1), (c)(4), or (c)(7) Dependent of certain foreign
government, international organization, or NATO personnel;

The check or money order must be drawn on a bank or
other financial institution located in the United States and
must be payable in U.S. currency; and

2.

Make the check or money order payable to U.S.
Department of Homeland Security.

10. (c)(8) Applicant for asylum (an applicant filing under the
special ABC procedures must pay the fee); or
11. (c)(31) VAWA Self-Petitioner.
Special Instructions for Childhood Arrivals ((c)(33)). All
requestors under this category must submit biometrics. The
biometrics services fee of $85 is required for all requestors.
The biometrics services fee and the filing fee for this form
cannot be waived.
Renewal EAD. If this is a renewal application and you are
applying under one of the following categories, a filing fee is
not required:
1.

(a)(8) Citizen of Micronesia, Marshall Islands, or Palau;

2.

(a)(10) Granted Withholding of Deportation;

You may be eligible for a fee waiver under 8 CFR 103.7(c) if
you are filing for an EAD related to your application or grant
of TPS.

NOTE: Spell out U.S. Department of Homeland Security;
do not use the initials "USDHS" or "DHS."
NOTE: If you filed Form I-485, Application to Register
Permanent Residence or Adjust Status, as of July 30, 2007,
and you paid the Form I-485 filing fee, no fee is required to
also file a request for employment authorization on Form
I-765. You may file the Form I-765 with your Form I-485, or
you may submit the Form I-765 at a later date. If you file
Form I-765 separately, you must also submit a copy of your
Form I-797C, Notice of Action, receipt as evidence of the
filing of Form I-485 as of July 30, 2007.

Form I-765 Instructions 11/04/15 Y Page 10

Notice to Those Making Payment by Check. If you send us
a check, it will be converted into an electronic funds transfer
(EFT). This means we will copy your check and use the
account information on it to electronically debit your account
for the amount of the check. The debit from your account will
usually take 24 hours and will be shown on your regular
account statement.

Requests for More Information. We may request that you
provide more information or evidence to support your
application. We may also request that you provide the
originals of any copies you submit. If USCIS requests an
original document from you, it will be returned to you after
USCIS determines it no longer needs your original.

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You will not receive your original check back. We will
destroy your original check, but we will keep a copy of it. If
the EFT cannot be processed for technical reasons, you
authorize us to process the copy in place of your original
check. If the EFT cannot be completed because of insufficient
funds, we may try to make the transfer up to two times.
How to Check If the Fees Are Correct

Form I-765’s filing fee is current as of the edition date in the
lower left corner of this page. However, because USCIS fees
change periodically, you can verify that the fees are correct by
following one of the steps below.
1.

Visit the USCIS website at www.uscis.gov, select
“FORMS,” and check the appropriate fee; or

2.

Call the USCIS National Customer Service Center at
1-800-375-5283 and ask for fee information. For TTY
(deaf or hard of hearing) call: 1-800-767-1833.

Where to File?

Please see our website at www.uscis.gov/I-765 or call our
National Customer Service Center at 1-800-375-5283 for the
most current information about where to file this application.
For TTY (deaf or hard of hearing) call: 1-800-767-1833.

Address Change

An applicant who is not a U.S. citizen must notify USCIS of
his or her new address within 10 days of moving from his or
her previous residence. For information on filing a change of
address, go to the USCIS Website at www.uscis.gov/
addresschange or contact the USCIS National Customer
Service Center at 1-800-375-5283. For TTY (deaf or hard of
hearing) call: 1-800-767-1833.
NOTE: Do not submit a change of address request to USCIS
Lockbox facilities because USCIS Lockbox facilities do not
process change of address requests.

Processing Information
Initial Processing. Once USCIS accepts your application we
will check it for completeness. If you do not completely fill
out this application, you will not establish a basis for your
eligibility and USCIS may reject or deny your application.

NOTE: If you submit original documents when not required
or requested by USCIS, your original documents may be
immediately destroyed upon receipt.
Requests for Interview. We may request that you appear at a
USCIS office for an interview based on your application. At
the time of any interview or other appearance at a USCIS
office, we may require that you provide your fingerprints,
photograph, and/or signature to verify your identity and/or
update background and security checks.
Decision. The decision on Form I-765 involves a
determination of whether you have established eligibility for
the immigration benefit you are seeking. USCIS will notify
you of the decision in writing.

Approval. If approved, your EAD will either be mailed to
you or you may be required to visit your local USCIS office to
pick it up.
Denial. If your application cannot be granted, you will
receive a written notice explaining the basis of your denial.

Interim EAD. If you have not received a decision within 90
days of receipt by USCIS of a properly filed EAD application
or within 30 days of a properly filed initial EAD application
based on an asylum application filed on or after January 4, 1995,
you may request interim work authorization by calling the
USCIS National Customer Service Center at 1-800-375-5283
or by appearing in person at your local USCIS Field Office by
making an InfoPass appointment. For TTY (deaf or hard of
hearing ) call: 1-800-767-1833. For further processing at a
USCIS Field Office, you must bring proof of identity and any
notices that you have received from USCIS in connection with
your application for employment authorization. The Interim
EAD provisions apply to individuals filing Form I-765 based
on Consideration of Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals
only after a determination on deferred action is reached.

USCIS Forms and Information
To ensure you are using the latest version of this application,
visit the USCIS website at www.uscis.gov where you can
obtain the latest USCIS forms and immigration-related
information. If you do not have Internet access, you may
order USCIS forms by calling the Forms Request Line at
1-800-870-3676. You may also obtain forms and information
by calling the USCIS National Customer Service Center at
1-800-375-5283. For TTY (deaf or hard of hearing) call:
1-800-767-1833.

Form I-765 Instructions 11/04/15 Y Page 11

Instead of waiting in line for assistance at your local USCIS
office, you can schedule an appointment online at
www.uscis.gov. Select “Schedule an Appointment” and
follow the screen prompts to set up your appointment. Once
you finish scheduling an appointment, the system will
generate an appointment notice for you.

Paperwork Reduction Act
An agency may not conduct or sponsor an information
collection and a person is not required to respond to a
collection of information unless it displays a currently valid
OMB control number. The public reporting burden for this
collection of information is estimated as follows: 3.42 hours
for reviewing instructions and completing and submitting
Form I-765; 1.17 hours associated with biometrics processing;
.50 hours for reviewing instructions and completing Form
I-765WS; and .50 hours associated with providing passportstyle photographs. Send comments regarding this burden
estimate or any other aspect of this collection of information,
including suggestions for reducing this burden, to: U.S.
Citizenship and Immigration Services, Regulatory
Coordination Division, Office of Policy and Strategy,
20 Massachusetts Ave NW, Washington, DC 20529-2140.
OMB No. 1615-0040. Do not mail your completed Form
I-765 to this address.

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Penalties

If you knowingly and willfully falsify or conceal a material
fact or submit a false document with your Form I-765, we will
deny your Form I-765 and may deny any other immigration
benefit.

In addition, you will face severe penalties provided by law and
may be subject to criminal prosecution.

USCIS Privacy Act Statement

AUTHORITIES: The information requested on this
application, and the associated evidence, is collected pursuant to
the Immigration and Nationality Act, 8 U.S.C. section 1324a, as
amended.
PURPOSE: The primary purpose for providing the requested
information on this form is to determine eligibility for certain
aliens who are temporarily in the United States requesting an
Employment Authorization Document (EAD).
DISCLOSURE: The information you provide is voluntary.
However, failure to provide the requested information, and
any requested evidence, may delay a final decision or result in
the denial of your benefit request.

ROUTINE USES: The information you provide on this
benefit application may be shared with other federal, state,
local, and foreign government agencies and authorized
organizations in accordance with approved routine uses, as
described in the associated published system of records
notices [DHS/USCIS-001 - Alien File, Index, and National
File Tracking System; DHS/USCIS-007 - Benefit Information
System; and DHS/USCIS-010 - Asylum Information and PreScreening, which can be found at www.dhs.gov/privacy]. The
information may also be made available, as appropriate for
law enforcement purposes or in the interest of national
security.

Form I-765 Instructions 11/04/15 Y Page 12