Application for Employment Authorization

Instructions for Application for
Employment Authorization
Department of Homeland Security
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services

USCIS
Form I-765

OMB No. 1615-0040
Expires 06/30/2022

What Is the Purpose of Form I-765?
Certain foreign nationals who are in the United States may file Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization, to
request employment authorization and an Employment Authorization Document (EAD). Other foreign nationals whose
immigration status authorizes them to work in the United States without restrictions may also use Form I-765 to apply to
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) for an EAD that shows such authorization. Review the Who May
File Form I-765 section of these Instructions to determine whether you should use Form I-765.

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Foreign nationals may also apply for a Social Security number and card on Form I-765 following the guidelines in the
Specific Instructions section of these Instructions, Part 4. Information About You, Item Numbers 1. - 5.
If you are a lawful permanent resident, a conditional permanent resident, or a nonimmigrant only authorized for
employment with a specific employer under 8 CFR 274a.12(b), do not use Form I-765.
Definitions

Employment Authorization Document (EAD): The EAD is the card (Form I-766, or any successor document) issued as
evidence that the holder is authorized to work in the United States.
Initial EAD: An EAD issued to an eligible applicant for the first time under a specific eligibility category.
Renewal EAD: An EAD issued to an eligible applicant after 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 was lost, stolen, damaged,
or contains errors, such as a misspelled name.
NOTE: For more information regarding employment authorization documents, visit www.uscis.gov/greencard/
employment-authorization-document.

Who May File Form I-765?

You may file Form I-765 if you fall within one of the eligibility categories below.
For some categories, employment authorization is granted with your underlying immigration status (called “incident to
status” employment authorization). For example, asylees and refugees are authorized to work as soon as they obtain such
status, but may nonetheless apply for an EAD if they want further proof of employment eligibility.
For other categories such as parolees or individuals with deferred action, USCIS must first approve your Form I-765
before you are eligible to accept employment in the United States. Once we approve your Form I-765 is approved, USCIS
will issue your EAD.
You must type or print your eligibility category in Part 3., Item Number 1., on Form I-765. Enter only one category
number on the application. For example, if you are a refugee applying for an EAD, type or print “(a)(3)” in Item
Number 1.
Please note that a person with a pending application for an immigration benefit or request might have a different
category number than a person who was already granted the benefit or request. For example, a person with a
pending asylum application may file and EAD application under category (c)(8); by contrast, the EAD category for
a person already granted asylum is category (a)(5).

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Asylee/Refugee Categories (and their Spouses and Children)
1. Refugee--(a)(3). If an initial Form I-765 was not already prepared for you before your arrival as a refugee in the
United States, or if you are requesting to renew your EAD, file Form I-765 with a copy of one of the following:
•

Your stamped Form I-94, Arrival-Departure Record;

•

Your Final Notice of Eligibility for Resettlement (approval letter); or

•

Your Form I-797 Notice approving your derivative refugee status based on a Form I-730, Refugee/Asylee
Relative Petition (if approved while in the United States).

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NOTE: If you were admitted as a refugee and have applied under the Immigration and Nationality Act (INA) section
209 to adjust to lawful permanent resident status using Form I-485, Application to Register Permanent Residence or
Adjust Status, file Form I-765 under category (a)(3) as a refugee. Do not file Form I-765 under eligibility category
(c)(9) as an INA section 245 adjustment applicant.
2. Paroled as a Refugee--(a)(4). File Form I-765 with a copy of your Form I-94, passport, or travel document. If you
were not paroled as a refugee, do not file under (a)(4). Review the (c)(11) eligibility category to determine if you are
eligible to file under that category.
3. Asylee (Granted Asylum)--(a)(5). File Form I-765 with a copy of one of the following:
•

Your stamped Form I-94 indicating asylee status;

•

A USCIS Asylum approval letter; an order granting asylum signed by an Executive Office for Immigration
Review (EOIR) immigration judge (IJ); or

•

A Form I-797 Notice approving your derivative asylee status based on a Form I-730 (if approved while in the
United States).

NOTE: If you are an asylee and have applied to adjust to lawful permanent resident status under INA section 209
using Form I-485, file Form I-765 under category (a)(5) as an asylee. Do not file Form I-765 under eligibility category
(c)(9) as an INA section 245 adjustment applicant.
4. Granted Withholding of Deportation or Removal--(a)(10). File Form I-765 with a copy of the EOIR IJ’s signed
order granting withholding of deportation or removal.
5. Pending Asylum and Withholding of Removal Applicants and Applicants for Pending Asylum under the ABC
Settlement Agreement--(c)(8). If you have a pending Form I-589, Application for Asylum and for Withholding
of Removal, refer to Special Filing Instructions for Those With Pending Asylum Applications--(c)(8) in the
Required Documentation section of these Instructions.
Nationality Categories
1. Citizen of Micronesia, the Marshall Islands, or Palau--(a)(8). File Form I-765 with evidence 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.
2. Deferred Enforced Departure (DED)--(a)(11). File Form I-765 with evidence of your identity and nationality.
If you are without nationality, submit evidence of your residence in the last country in which you habitually resided.
You should also state your basis for claiming that you are covered by DED and provide evidence (if available) for
your claim.

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3. Temporary Protected Status (TPS)--(a)(12) and (c)(19). File Form I-765 with your Form I-821, Application for
Temporary Protected Status, or evidence that we received or approved your initial or re-registration Form I-821.
Include evidence of your nationality and identity as required by the Form I-821 Instructions. If an EOIR IJ or the
Board of Immigration Appeals (BIA) granted you TPS, and you are requesting your first EAD or are re-registering for
the first time, you must submit a copy of the EOIR IJ or BIA order granting you TPS with your Form I-765 (such as
a copy of your Form I-821 that the EOIR 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, new designation
(formerly called “re-designation”), or extension for your country. Please check the USCIS website at www.uscis.gov/
tps for procedures to register or re-register for TPS, including obtaining an EAD, if your country has been designated
for TPS.

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If your unexpired TPS EAD is lost, stolen, or damaged, file Form I-765 with required fees to request a replacement.
Include a copy of your approval notice for TPS (if you have been approved) or a copy of your previous Form I-797
Notice for Form I-821 if your TPS application is still pending.
A. Category (a)(12) EAD: We may issue you a category (a)(12) EAD if your TPS application was approved, you
requested an EAD, and you were not previously issued a category (c)(19) EAD that runs through the current TPS
designation or extension period for your country.
Re-registration for TPS: File your Form I-765, Form I-821, and a letter indicating that this application is for
TPS re-registration. Include a copy (front and back) of your last available TPS document (for example, an EAD,
Form I-94, passport, or travel document, or a Form I-797 Notice).
NOTE: To re-register for TPS, you must file Form I-821; however, you do not need to file Form I-765 if you do
not want an EAD. If you have been approved for TPS and it has not been finally withdrawn due to individual
ineligibility, you may apply for an EAD at any time while your country’s TPS designation remains in effect.
Please ensure that you have complied with all requirements for maintaining your TPS, such as re-registering when
required by the Federal Register notices applicable to your country’s TPS designation. Information on current
TPS designations and re-registration is available at www.uscis.gov/tps.
B. Category (c)(19) EAD: A category (c)(19) EAD is a temporary benefit for TPS applicants under 8 CFR Part 244 .
We may issue you a category (c)(19) EAD if you have a pending Form I-821, and you are prima facie eligible for
TPS.
4. Applicant for Suspension of Deportation or Cancellation of Removal--(c)(10). Applicants Who Are Eligible to
Apply for Special Rule Suspension of Deportation or Cancellation of Removal under Nicaraguan Adjustment
and Central American Relief Act (NACARA) Section 203: See the Instructions to Form I-881, Application for
Suspension of Deportation or Special Rule Cancellation of Removal (Pursuant to Section 203 of Public Law 105-100
(NACARA)), to determine if you are eligible to apply for NACARA 203 relief.
If you are eligible to apply for NACARA 203 relief with USCIS, you may file Form I-765 together with your Form
I-881. See our website at www.uscis.gov/I-881 for the most current information on where to file Form I-881. If
you are eligible to file Form I-881 with EOIR, or if you have already filed Form I-881 with USCIS or EOIR, see the
Where to File section of these Instructions.
You may be eligible for a fee waiver under 8 CFR 103.7(c)(3)(xi).
Applicant for non-NACARA Suspension of Deportation or Cancellation of Removal: File Form I-765 with
evidence that:
A. You are currently in immigration removal proceedings;
B. The appropriate application fees were paid or evidence of the immigration judge’s order granting your fee waiver
(The fee can be found in the regulations, in the Instructions with the application, and at www.uscis.gov or for the
EOIR forms, at www.usdoj.gov/eoir); and
C. Your application for Suspension of Deportation (Form EOIR-40) or Application for Cancellation of Removal and
Adjustment of Status for Certain Nonpermanent Residents (Form EOIR-42B) has been properly filed with the
appropriate immigration court before the current Form I-765 is filed with USCIS.
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5. 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.
Foreign Students Categories
1. F-1 Student Seeking Optional Practical Training (OPT) in a Position Directly Related to Major Area of Study
NOTE: If you are an F-1 student filing for initial or extension of OPT, please note that your OPT and your
employment authorization will be automatically terminated if you change educational program levels or transfer to
another school. Working in the United States without authorization may result in your removal from the United States
or denial of re-entry. Consult your Designated School Official (DSO) for additional details.

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A. Pre-Completion OPT--(c)(3)(A). File Form I-765 up to 90 days before being enrolled for one full academic
year, provided that the period of employment will not start before you have completed one full academic
year. You do not need to complete the one full academic year while you are in F-1 status; if you completed the
one-year requirement while in another valid nonimmigrant status and you are now in valid F-1 status, you are
eligible to apply for OPT. Include evidence of having been lawfully enrolled on a full-time basis for one full
academic year at a college, university, conservatory, or seminary approved by the U.S. Immigration and Customs
Enforcement (ICE) Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP) for attendance by F-1 foreign students. Also,
include all previously used Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS) numbers and evidence
of any previously authorized curricular practical training (CPT) or OPT and academic level at which each was
authorized. You must include a Certificate of Eligibility of Nonimmigrant (F-1) Student Status (Form I-20)
endorsed by the DSO before filing Form I-765.
B. Post-Completion OPT--(c)(3)(B). File Form I-765 up to 90 days before, but no later than 60 days after, your
program end date. Use Part 8. Additional Information to provide all previously used SEVIS numbers and
evidence of any previously authorized CPT or OPT and the academic level at which it was authorized.
NOTE: Your DSO must enter the recommendation for OPT into your SEVIS record before you file your Form
I-765. You must file your Form I-765 within 30 days this DSO recommendation. If you fail to do so, we will
deny your OPT request.
C. 24-Month Extension for STEM Students (Students With a Degree in Science, Technology, Engineering,
or Mathematics)--(c)(3)(C). File Form I-765 up to 90 days before the expiration of your current OPT, if you
are requesting a 24-month STEM extension. Include evidence the degree that is the basis for the STEM OPT
extension is in one of the degree programs currently listed on the STEM Designated Degree Program List.
Additionally, submit the employer’s name as listed in E-Verify, along with the E-Verify Company Identification
Number or E-Verify Client Company Identification Number for the employer with whom you are seeking the
24-month STEM OPT extension. You must provide this information in Part 3., Items A. - C. in Item Number
2., of Form I-765. Your DSO must enter the recommendation for a 24-month STEM OPT extension into your
SEVIS record before you file your Form I-765. You must file your Form I-765 within 60 days of this DSO
recommendation.
NOTE: If you are applying for a STEM OPT extension based on a previously earned STEM degree, you must
also include a copy of your prior STEM degree and evidence that the institution is currently accredited by the U.S.
Department of Education and certified by the SEVP.
D. 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 copy of the Form I-20 with the employment
page completed by the DSO certifying eligibility for employment.
E. F-1 Student Seeking Off-Campus Employment Due to Severe Economic Hardship--(c)(3)(iii). File Form
I-765 with a copy of the Form I-20 that includes the employment page completed by the DSO certifying eligibility
for off-campus employment due to severe economic hardship caused by unforeseen circumstances beyond your
control. Include evidence that:
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(1) You have been in F-1 status for one full academic year;
(2) You are in good standing as a student;
(3) You are carrying a full course of study;
(4) Acceptance of employment will not interfere with your carrying a full course of study;
(5) The employment is necessary to avoid severe economic hardship due to unforeseen circumstances beyond
your control; and
(6) On-campus employment is unavailable or is not sufficient to meet the needs that have arisen due to the
unforeseen circumstances.

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F. J-2 Spouse or Minor Child of an Exchange Visitor--(c)(5). File Form I-765 with a copy of Form DS-2019,
evidence the J-1 principal foreign national is currently maintaining status, and evidence any income from this
employment authorization will not be used to support the J-1 principal foreign national. Also, provide evidence
you are currently maintaining status and include evidence of all previously authorized periods of J-2 employment.
G. M-1 Student Seeking Post-Completion OPT After Completing Studies--(c)(6). File Form I-765 with a copy of
the Form I-20 endorsed by the DSO certifying eligibility for employment together with Form I-539, Application
to Change/Extend Nonimmigrant Status, if applicable, completed according to the Form I-539 Instructions. We
must receive the completed forms before, but not more than 90 days before, your program end date. If applicable,
your Form I-539 must request an extension of stay that covers the requested period of post-completion OPT and a
30-day departure period.
NOTE: You may request one month of OPT for every four months of full-time study you have completed as an
M-1 student.
Categories for Eligible Dependents of Employees of Diplomatic Missions, International Organizations, or NATO
1. 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 or from A, G, or
NATO Status, Dependent Employment Authorization, through your diplomatic mission to the Department of State
(DOS). DOS will forward all favorably endorsed applications directly to USCIS for adjudication.
2. Dependent of G-1, G-3, or G-4 Nonimmigrant--(c)(4). Submit Form I-765 together with Form I-566 through your
international organization to DOS. The United Nations (UN) and UN missions located in New York City should
submit such applications to the U.S. Mission to the UN (USUN). DOS or USUN will forward all favorably endorsed
applications directly to USCIS for adjudication.
3. Dependent of NATO-1 Through NATO-6--(c)(7). If you are a dependent of a North Atlantic Treaty Organization
(NATO) nonimmigrant who is stationed at Supreme Allied Command Transformation (SACT), NATO/HQ, submit
Form I-765 with Form I-566 to:
USLO to NATO/HQ SACT
7857 Blandy Road, Suite 200
Norfolk, VA 23551-2491
If you are a dependent of a NATO nonimmigrant who is stationed outside of NATO/HQ SACT, submit Form I-765
with Form I-566 to the Defense Attaché’s Office at the embassy of the NATO member that employs the foreign
national. For more details on NATO member embassy contacts and on documents required, visit the DOS website
www.state.gov/ofm under the topic “Dependent Work Authorization.”
If you have questions regarding the process or document requirements, email OFM-EAD@state.gov.
Employment-Based Nonimmigrant Categories
1. B-1 Nonimmigrant Who Is the Personal or Domestic Servant of a Nonimmigrant Employer--(c)(17)(i). File
Form I-765 with:
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A. Evidence of your lawful B nonimmigrant status (for example, your Form I-94, passport, or other travel
document);
B. Evidence that your employer is a B, E, F, H, I, J, L, M, O, P, Q, or TN nonimmigrant;
C. Evidence you worked for the employer for at least one year before the employer entered the United States, or your
employer has regularly employed personal and domestic servants either year round or seasonally and has done so
for a period of several years before coming to the United States;
D. Evidence you have worked for this employer as a personal or domestic servant for at least one year, or evidence
you have at least one year of experience as a personal or domestic servant; and

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E. Evidence establishing you have a residence abroad that you have no intention of abandoning.
2. B-1 Nonimmigrant Domestic Servant of a U.S. Citizen--(c)(17)(ii). File Form I-765 with:

A. Evidence of your lawful B nonimmigrant status (for example, your Form I-94, passport, or other travel
document);
B. Evidence that your employer is a U.S. citizen;

C. Evidence that your employer has a permanent home abroad or is stationed outside the United States and is
temporarily visiting the United States.
D. Evidence that your employer employed you as a domestic servant prior to your employer’s visit to the United
States.
3. B-1 Nonimmigrant Employed by a Foreign Airline--(c)(17)(iii). File Form I-765 with:

A. Evidence of your lawful B nonimmigrant status (for example, your Form I-94, passport, or other travel
document); and
B. A letter from a foreign airline engaged in international transportation fully describing your duties and stating your
position would entitle you to E nonimmigrant status except for the fact that you are not a national of the airline’s
country, or because there is no treaty of commerce and navigation in effect between the United States and that
country.
4. Spouse of an E-1 Treaty Trader, E-2 Treaty Investor, or E-3 Specialty Occupation Professional from
Australia--(a)(17). File Form I-765 with:
A. Evidence of your lawful E nonimmigrant status (for example, your Form I-94, passport, or other travel document);
and
B. Evidence of your spouse’s lawful E nonimmigrant status (for example, a copy of your spouse’s Form I-94,
passport, or other travel document) and your marriage certificate.
NOTE: Other relatives or dependents of E nonimmigrants in E status are not eligible for employment
authorization and cannot file under this category.
5. Spouse of an L-1 Intracompany Transferee--(a)(18). File Form I-765 with:
A. Evidence of your lawful L nonimmigrant status (for example, your Form I-94, passport, or other travel document);
and
B. Evidence of your spouse’s lawful L nonimmigrant status (for example, a copy of your spouse’s Form I-94,
passport, or other travel document) and your marriage certificate.
NOTE: Other relatives or dependents of L nonimmigrants in L status are not eligible for employment
authorization and cannot file under this category.
6. Spouse of an E-2 Commonwealth of Northern Mariana Islands (CNMI) Investor--(c)(12). File Form I-765 with
the required evidence listed under Special Filing Instructions for Spouses of E-2 CNMI Investors in the Required
Documentation section of these Instructions.

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NOTE: If you are the spouse of a principal E-2 CNMI investor who obtained status on the basis of a Foreign Retiree
Investment Certification, you are not eligible for employment authorization and cannot file under this category.
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 CNMI.
To determine if you are eligible for an EAD under this section, you must determine what type of investor certificate
the CNMI issued to your spouse, the principal E-2 CNMI investor. If your spouse holds a Foreign Retiree Investment
Certification, you are not eligible to receive an EAD under this category. If your spouse holds either a Long-Term
Business Certificate or Foreign Investment Certificate, you may be eligible for an EAD under this category.

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File Form I-765 with:

A. Documentation (such as a marriage certificate) establishing a legal marriage;

B. Documentation (such as divorce or death certificates) establishing the termination of any prior marriage(s) for
both you and your current spouse (if applicable);
C. Documentation establishing that you reside in the CNMI;

D. Documentation establishing that your spouse has obtained E-2C status;

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

F. A copy of your spouse’s CNMI-issued Long-Term Business Certificate or Foreign Investment Certificate.
7. 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 your spouse is the beneficiary
of an approved Form I-140, Immigrant Petition for Alien Worker, or your spouse received H-1B status based on the
American Competitiveness in the Twenty-First Century Act (AC21) sections 106(a) and (b). For your convenience,
you may file Form I-765 with Form I-539. However, we will not process your Form I-765 (except filing fees), until
after we have adjudicated your Form I-539. You may also file Form I-765 at the same time as your Form I-539 and
your H1-B spouse’s Form I-129H1, Petition for a Nonimmigrant Worker. Please see the USCIS website at
www.uscis.gov/I-765 for the most current information on where to file this benefit request.
A. Proof of Your Status. Submit a copy of your current Form I-797 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
B. Proof of Relationship to the Principal H-1B. Submit a copy of your marriage certificate. If you cannot submit
a copy of your current Form I-797 Notice, Form I-94, or marriage certificate, we will consider secondary evidence
of your relationship.
C. Basis for Work Authorization. Acceptable documentation includes:
(1) Approved Form I-140. Submit evidence the H-1B principal is the beneficiary of an approved Form I-140.
You may show this by submitting a copy of your spouse’s Form I-797 Notice for Form I-140; or
(2) H-1B Principal Received AC21 106(a) and (b) Extension. Submit evidence that your spouse has been
admitted or granted an extension of stay under AC21 sections 106(a) and (b). You may show this by
submitting copies of your spouse’s passports, prior Form I-94s, and current and prior Form I-797 Notices for
Form I-129H1. In addition, submit evidence to establish one of the following bases for the H-1B extension of
stay.
(a) Based on Filing of a Permanent Labor Certification Application. Submit evidence your spouse is the
beneficiary of a Permanent Labor Certification Application that was filed at least 365 days prior to the
date the period of admission authorized under AC21 sections 106(a) and (b) took effect. You may show
this by submitting a print out from the Department of Labor’s (DOL) website or other correspondence
from DOL showing the status of your spouse’s Permanent Labor Certification Application. If DOL
certified the Permanent Labor Certification, you must also submit a copy of Form I-797 Notice for Form
I-140 establishing the Form I-140 was filed within 180 days of DOL certifying the Permanent Labor
Certification; or
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(b) 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 your spouse’s Form
I-140 was filed at least 365 days prior to the date the period of admission authorized under AC21 sections
106(a) and (b) took effect. You may show this by submitting a copy of the Form I-797 Notice for Form
I-140.
(c) Secondary Evidence. If you do not have the evidence listed in Items (a) or (b) above, you may ask us
to consider 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 Items (1)
and (2), you may submit the receipt number of your spouse’s most current extension of stay or Form
I-140 approved on your spouse’s behalf.

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Failure to provide the evidence listed above or secondary evidence may result in the delay or denial
of your Form I-765. For additional information on secondary evidence, see Evidence in the General
Instructions section of these Instructions.
8. Principal Beneficiary of an Approved Employment-Based Immigrant Petition Facing Compelling
Circumstances--(c)(35). File Form I-765 with documents showing that you are eligible for an initial grant or a
renewal of employment authorization under the (c)(35) eligibility category All applicants under these categories must
submit biometrics.
A. Initial Application: If this is your first application for compelling circumstances employment authorization
under the (c)(35) eligibility category, and an immigrant visa number is not yet available to you, you may be
eligible if:
(1) You have NOT filed Form I-485;

(2) You have a Form I-140 approved on your behalf;

(3) You are in the United States in a valid E-3, H-1B, H-1B1, O-1, or L-1 nonimmigrant status; and
(4) You face compelling circumstances.

See Item C. Supporting Evidence by Principal below for more information regarding what documents to
submit with your application, including additional requirements where you have been convicted of certain
crimes.
B. Renewal Application: If you already have employment authorization under the (c)(35) eligibility category, you
may be eligible for renewal if:
(1) You have a Form I-140 approved on your behalf;
(2) Either:
•

You face compelling circumstances and an immigrant visa is not authorized for issuance based on your
priority date according to the relevant Final Action Date in the Department of State Visa Bulletin in effect
on the date you file the application for a renewal of employment authorization; OR

•

The difference between your priority date and the Final Action Date for your preference category and
country of chargeability is one year or less according to the Department of State Visa Bulletin in effect
on the date your renewal application is filed. This means that your priority date cannot be more than one
year earlier or one year later than the Department of State cut-off date in the Visa Bulletin applicable to
your preference category and country of chargeability in effect on the date your renewal application is
filed. If this is the basis for your renewal application, you do not need to show compelling circumstances;
AND

(3) You file your renewal application on Form I-765 with USCIS before your current employment authorization
expires. You are not required to be in a valid nonimmigrant status when you file your renewal application.

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See Item C. Supporting Evidence by Principal below for more information regarding what documents to
submit with your application, including additional requirements where you have been convicted of certain
crimes.
C. Supporting Evidence by Principal
(1) Proof You Are in the United States in E-3, H-1B, H-1B1, O-1, or L-1 Nonimmigrant Status. For initial
applications, submit a copy of your Arrival-Departure Record (Form I-94) showing your admission as an E-3,
H-1B, H-1B1, O-1, or L-1 nonimmigrant, or a copy of your current Form I-797 Notice for variant Form I-129.
(2) Proof of Your Approved Form I-140. For initial and renewal applications, submit a copy of a Form I-797
Notice for Form I-140 showing the Immigrant Petition has been approved on your behalf.

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(3) Evidence You Are Facing Compelling Circumstances While You Wait for Your Immigrant Visa to
Become Available. For initial and, if applicable, renewal applications based on compelling circumstances,
USCIS will review the documents you provide to determine, in its discretion, whether you have established
compelling circumstances. USCIS makes this discretionary determination on a case-by-case basis according
to the documents submitted and the totality of the record. You should submit any credible evidence you
believe supports your claim of compelling circumstances.
(4) Secondary Evidence. If you do not have the evidence listed in Items (1) or (2) above, you may ask us to
consider secondary evidence in support of your application for employment authorization. For additional
information on secondary evidence, see Evidence in the General Instructions section of these Instructions.
(5) Proof of Arrests and Conviction. For initial and renewal applications, you must submit documentation
of any arrests and/or convictions. If you were ever convicted of a felony or two or more misdemeanors,
you cannot be granted employment authorization under this eligibility category. USCIS will make the
determination as to whether your crimes fall into either of these categories. You must, however, provide
information and any supporting documentation on all crimes which you were convicted of so USCIS can
make an appropriate decision. Provide certified copies of all arrest reports, court dispositions, sentencing
documents, and any other relevant documents.
NOTE: USCIS may, in its discretion, deny your application if you have been arrested and/or convicted of
any crime.
D. Traffic Violations and Arrests

Do not select the “Yes” box for Part 3., Item B. in Item Number 3., on the application or submit documentation
if you only have had minor traffic violations. Minor traffic violations do NOT include violations that are alcoholor drug-related. If you were ARRESTED for any traffic offense, select the “Yes” box for Item B. in Item
Number 3. on the application and provide arrest and disposition documentation so USCIS can properly assess
whether your arrest and/or conviction may affect your employment authorization eligibility.
NOTE: Provide the conviction and disposition documentation even if your records were sealed, expunged,
or otherwise cleared. You must provide the documentation even if anyone, including a judge, law enforcement
officer, or attorney told you that you no longer have a record or that you do not have to disclose the information.
Failure to provide the evidence listed above or secondary evidence may result in the delay or denial of your
application for employment authorization.
9. Spouse or Unmarried Child of a Principal Beneficiary of an Approved Employment-Based Immigrant
Petition--(c)(36). File Form I-765 along with supporting documentation for an initial grant or a renewal of
employment authorization under the (c)(36) eligibility category. You may file your application WITH your spouse’s
or parent’s application under (c)(35). You may file your application while your spouse’s or parent’s application under
(c)(35) is PENDING or AFTER your spouse’s or parent’s application has been approved by USCIS. If filing with
your spouse’s or parent’s application, USCIS will not adjudicate your Form I-765 until after USCIS has adjudicated
your spouse’s or parent’s Form I-765 first. All applicants under these categories must submit biometrics.

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A. Initial Application: If this is your first application for employment authorization under the (c)(36) eligibility
category, you may be eligible if:
(1) You are the spouse or unmarried child of an individual who is filing or who has been approved for compelling
circumstances employment authorization under (c)(35) (See Proof of Relationship to the Principal
Beneficiary of the Approved Form I-140 section below);
(2) Your spouse’s or parent’s application for compelling circumstances employment authorization under (c)(35)
has been approved or is pending with USCIS (not required if you are filing your application at the same time
as your spouse’s or parent’s application under (c)(35)); and

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(3) You are in a valid nonimmigrant status when your spouse or parent applies for initial employment
authorization under the (c)(35) eligibility category.
See Item C. Supporting Evidence by Spouse or Unmarried Child below for more information regarding
what documents to submit with your application, including additional requirements if you have been
arrested or convicted.
B. Renewal Application: You may be eligible to renew your application under the (c)(36) eligibility category if:
(1) You file Form I-765 before your current employment authorization expires;

(2) You are the spouse or unmarried child of an individual who is filing or who has been approved for compelling
circumstances employment authorization under (c)(35) (See Proof of Relationship to the Principal
Beneficiary of the Approved Form I-140 below); and
(3) Your spouse’s or parent’s application for compelling circumstances employment authorization under (c)(35)
has been approved or is pending with USCIS (not required if you are filing your application at the same time
as your spouse’s or parent’s renewal application under (c)(35)).
You do not have to be in a valid nonimmigrant status when you file your renewal application.
See Item C. Supporting Evidence by Spouse or Unmarried Child below for more information regarding
what documents to submit with your application, including additional requirements if you have been
arrested or convicted.
C. Supporting Evidence by Spouse or Unmarried Child

(1) Proof of Your Nonimmigrant Status. For initial applications only, submit a copy of your Arrival-Departure
Record (Form I-94) showing your admission as a nonimmigrant, a copy of your current Form I-797 Notice for
variant Form I-129, or a copy of your current Form I-797 Notice for Form I-539.
(2) Proof of Relationship to the Principal Beneficiary of the Approved Form I-140. For initial and renewal
applications, if you are applying as the spouse of a principal beneficiary of an approved Form I-140, submit
a copy of the marriage certificate and if applicable, copies of documents showing the legal termination of
all other marriages by you or your spouse. If you are applying as the child of a principal beneficiary of an
approved Form I-140, submit a copy of your birth certificate or other documents to demonstrate you qualify as
the principal beneficiary’s child. If you cannot submit a copy of your marriage certificate or birth certificate,
USCIS will consider secondary evidence.
(3) Proof the Spouse or Parent Principal Beneficiary Was Granted or Has Applied for Employment
Authorization Under Eligibility Category (c)(35). For initial and renewal applications, if you submit your
Form I-765 after your spouse or parent receives employment authorization under eligibility category (c)(35),
submit a copy of your spouse’s or parent’s employment authorization document or submit a copy of your
spouse’s or parent’s Form I-797 Notice for Form I-765.
If your spouse’s or parent’s application under (c)(35) is pending when you file your Form I-765, submit a
copy of your spouse’s or parent’s Form I-797 Notice for the pending Form I-765. USCIS will not adjudicate
your Form I-765 until USCIS has adjudicated your spouse’s or parent’s Form I-765.

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(4) Secondary Evidence. If you do not have the evidence listed in Items (1), (2), or (3) above, you may ask us
to consider secondary evidence in support of your application for employment authorization. For additional
information on secondary evidence, see Evidence in the General Instructions section of these Instructions.
(5) Proof of Arrests and Convictions. For initial and renewal applications, you must submit documentation
of any arrests and/or convictions. If you were ever convicted of a felony or two or more misdemeanors,
you cannot be granted employment authorization under this eligibility category. USCIS will make the
determination as to whether your crimes fall into either of these categories. You must, however, provide
information and any supporting documentation on all crimes you were convicted of so USCIS can make an
appropriate decision. Provide certified copies of all arrest reports, court dispositions, sentencing documents,
and any other relevant documents.

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NOTE: USCIS may, in its discretion, deny your application if you have been arrested and/or convicted of
any crime.
D. Traffic Violations and Arrests

Do not select the “Yes” box for Part 3., Item B. in Item Number 5., on the application or submit documentation
if you only have had minor traffic violations. Minor traffic violations do NOT include violations that are alcoholor drug-related. If you were ARRESTED for any traffic offense, select the “Yes” box for Item Number B. in
Item Number 5. on the application and provide arrest and disposition documentation so USCIS can properly
assess whether your arrest and/or conviction may affect your employment authorization eligibility.
NOTE: Provide the conviction and disposition documentation even if your records were sealed, expunged,
or otherwise cleared. You must provide the documentation even if anyone, including a judge, law enforcement
officer, or attorney, told you that you no longer have a record or that you do not have to disclose the information.
Failure to provide the evidence listed above or secondary evidence may result in the delay or denial of your
application for employment authorization.
Department of State Visa Bulletin. USCIS will adjudicate all applications for initial or renewal employment
authorization according to the Visa Bulletin in effect on the date the application is filed. To see the current Visa
Bulletin, please go to www.state.gov/travel and click the link to the Visa Bulletin.
Priority Dates. For more information about priority dates, please visit our Visa Availability and Priority Dates
website at www.uscis.gov.
Filing Location. Please see the USCIS website at www.uscis.gov/i-765 for the most current information on where to
file your application for initial or renewal employment authorization under the (c)(35) or (c)(36) eligibility categories.
Family-Based Nonimmigrant Categories
1. K-1 Nonimmigrant Fiancé(e) of U.S. Citizen or K-2 Dependent--(a)(6). File Form I-765 along with evidence of
your admission (for example, copies of your Form I-94, passport, or other travel document) and your K visa. You are
only authorized to work under this category during your 90 days in K-1 or K-2 status. You cannot renew this EAD.
2. K-3 Nonimmigrant Spouse of U.S. Citizen or K-4 Dependent--(a)(9). File Form I-765 along with evidence of your
admission (for example, copies of your Form I-94, passport, or other travel document) and your K visa.
3. Family Unity Program IMMACT 90-(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. We will issue an EAD if we approve your Form I-817. No Form I-765 is necessary, unless you are filing for
replacement of a non-expired lost, stolen, damaged, or incorrect card.
4. LIFE Act Family Unity--(a)(14). If you are applying for initial or extension of employment authorization under
section 1504 of the LIFE Act Amendments, complete and submit Form I-817. We will issue an EAD if we approve
your Form I-817; no Form I-765 is necessary unless you are filing for replacement of a non-expired lost, stolen,
damaged, or incorrect card.

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5. V-1, V-2, or V-3 Nonimmigrant--(a)(15). If you are in V status, file Form I-765 with evidence of your V status
(for example, an approval notice, or your Form I-94.). If you are, in the United States but you have not yet filed an
application for V status, you may file Form I-765 at the same time as you file your application for V status. We will
adjudicate this application after adjudicating your application for V status.
Adjustment of Status Categories
1. Adjustment Applicant under Section 245--(c)(9). File Form I-765 together with Form I-485, Application to
Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status, or if filing separately, submit a copy of your Form I-485 receipt notice
or other evidence that your Form I-485 is pending. If you have filed your Form I-485 with EOIR, you must submit
proof that you are currently in immigration proceedings, that you have properly filed Form I-485 with the immigration
court, and that the Form I-485 remains pending, before filing Form I-765 with USCIS.

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NOTE: If you are an asylee or refugee and have applied to adjust to lawful permanent resident status on Form I-485,
file Form I-765 under category (a)(5) as an asylee or (a)(3) as a refugee. Do not file under eligibility category (c)(9).
If your Form I-485 is still pending with USCIS and this is not your first EAD as a refugee or asylee and you paid the
I-485 fee after July 30, 2007 and before [INSERT EFFECTIVE DATE OF 2018/2019 FEE RULE], you do not need to
pay the Form I-765 filing fee. After [INSERT EFFECTIVE DATE OF 2018/2019 FEE RULE], refugees and asylees
must pay the Form I-765 fee to renew their EAD.
2. Renewal EAD for National Interest Waiver Physicians--(c)(9): If you are requesting a renewal EAD based on
your pending adjustment of status application and an approved National Interest Waiver Physician petition, you must
also include evidence of your meaningful progress toward completing the National Interest Waiver obligation (for
example, documentation of employment in any period during the previous year, such as copies of W-2 forms). If you
did not work as a National Interest Waiver Physician during any period of the previous year, you must explain why
and provide a statement of future intent to work as a physician in a qualifying location.
3. Registry Applicant Based on Continuous Residence Since January 1, 1972--(c)(16). File Form I-765 together
with your Form I-485 or, if filing separately, submit a copy of your Form I-485 receipt notice or other evidence that
your Form I-485 is pending. If your Form I-485 is still pending with USCIS and you paid the I-485 fee after
July 30, 2007 and before [INSERT EFFECTIVE DATE OF 2018/2019 FEE RULE], you do not need to pay the Form
I-765 filing fee.
Other Categories

1. Legalization Temporary Resident Pursuant to INA Sections 245A or 210--(a)(2). File Form I-765 with a copy of
your approval notice for Form I-687, Application for Status as a Temporary Resident Under Section 245A of the INA,
or other evidence that your Form I-687 is approved; OR File Form I-765 with a copy of your approval notice for Form
I-700, Application for Status as a Special Agricultural Worker, or other evidence that your Form I-700 is approved.
No Form I-765 is necessary, unless you are filing for replacement of a non-expired lost, stolen, damaged, or incorrect
card.
2. N-8 or N-9 Nonimmigrant--(a)(7). File Form I-765 with evidence of your lawful N nonimmigrant status (for
example, your Form I-94, passport, or other travel document).
3. Applicant for Legalization Pursuant to INA Section 210--(c)(20). File Form I-765 with a copy of your receipt
notice for Form I-700, Application for Status as a Temporary Resident Under Section 210 of the INA, or other
evidence that your Form I-700 is pending.
4. Applicant for Legalization Pursuant to INA Section 245A--(c)(22). File Form I-765 with a copy of your receipt
notice for Form I-687, Application for Status as a Temporary Resident Under Section 245A of the INA, or Form
I-698, Application to Adjust Status from Temporary to Permanent Resident Under Section 245A of the INA, or other
evidence that your Form I-687 is pending.
5. Parole--(c)(11). File Form I-765 with a copy of your valid, unexpired Form I-94, passport, or other travel document
showing you were paroled into the United States for urgent humanitarian reasons or reasons of significant public
benefit.
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6. Deferred Action--(c)(14). File Form I-765 with a copy of the order, notice, or other document reflecting the grant
of deferred action and proof that you have an economic necessity to work. We will consider whether you have an
economic necessity 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. Supporting evidence is not
required, but USCIS will accept and review any documentation that you submit. You do not need to include other
household members’ financial information to establish your own economic necessity.
7. Consideration of Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals--(c)(33).

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A. You must file Form I-765 with Form I-821D, Consideration of Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals, if you
meet the guidelines described in the Form I-821D Instructions. Enter (c)(33) in Part 3., Item Number 1., as the
eligibility category under which you are applying.
(1) You must file Form I-765 Worksheet to demonstrate that you have an economic necessity to work. We will
consider whether you have an economic necessity 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. If you would like to provide an explanation, complete Part 3. Explanation of the worksheet.
Supporting evidence is not required, but USCIS will accept and review any documentation that you submit.
You do not need to include other household members’ financial information to establish your own economic
necessity.
(2) The filing fee for Form I-765 is based on the Consideration of Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals
category, and the associated biometric services fee cannot be waived. However, we may waive the collection
of certain biometrics.
8. Final Order of Deportation or Removal, including those granted Deferral of Removal under the Convention
Against Torture--(c)(18). File Form I-765 with a copy of the EOIR IJ’s Order of Removal and Form I-220B, Order
of Supervision. Additional factors that may be considered include, but are not limited to, the following:
A. Existence of a dependent spouse and/or children in the United States who rely on you for support;
B. Existence of economic necessity to be employed; and

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

9. LIFE Legalization Applicant--(c)(24). File Form I-765 with evidence that you were a Catholic Social Services
(CSS), League of United Latin American Citizens (LULAC), or Zambrano class member applicant before October 1,
2000 and a copy of the Form I-797 Notice or other evidence that your Form I-485 is pending.
10. T-1 Nonimmigrant--(a)(16). If you are filing Form I-914, Application for T Nonimmigrant Status, and request an
EAD as part of your application, you do not need to file Form I-765. If you are currently in T-1 nonimmigrant status
and did not request an EAD when you filed your Form I-914, you may file Form I-765 to request an EAD. If you
were granted T-1 nonimmigrant status and want to request a replacement of an EAD, file Form I-765 along with
evidence of your T-1 nonimmigrant status (for example, an approval notice).
If you have filed Form I-539 to extend your T-1 nonimmigrant status, you may file Form I-765 to request a renewal of
your EAD, along with evidence of your T nonimmigrant status (for example, an approval notice). You may file Form
I-765 together with Form I-539 or after we approve your Form I-539. If you file Form I-765 after we approve your
Form I-539, submit a copy of your I-539 approval notice.
11. T-2, T-3, T-4, T-5, or T-6 Nonimmigrant--(c)(25). File Form I-765 along with proof of your derivative T
nonimmigrant status. If you obtained derivative T nonimmigrant status while in the United States, you must
submit a copy of the approval notice for your T nonimmigrant status. If you were admitted to the United States as
a T nonimmigrant, you must submit a copy of your passport with your T nonimmigrant visa. If you were granted
derivative T nonimmigrant status and want to request replacement of an EAD, file Form I-765 along with evidence of
your derivative T nonimmigrant status (for example, an approval notice).

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If you (or the T-1 principal foreign national) filed Form I-539 to extend your T-2, T-3, T-4, T-5, or T-6 nonimmigrant
status in conjunction with an extension of the principal T-1 nonimmigrant’s status, you may file Form I-765 to request
an initial or renewal EAD, along with evidence of your nonimmigrant status (for example, an approval notice or copy
of your passport with your T nonimmigrant visa). You may also file Form I-765 together with Form I-539 or after
we approve your Form I-539. If you file Form I-765 after we approve your Form I-539, submit a copy of your Form
I-539 approval notice.
NOTE: Derivative family members of T-1 nonimmigrants living outside the United States are not eligible to receive
an EAD until they lawfully enter the United States. If you are a derivative family member who is outside the United
States, do not file Form I-765.

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12. T Nonimmigrant Adjustment of Status--(c)(9). If you filed Form I-485 to adjust your status from a T-1, T-2, T-3,
T-4, T-5, or T-6 nonimmigrant to a lawful permanent resident, you may file Form I-765 together with Form I-485 if
you are seeking an EAD. You should also include evidence of your T nonimmigrant status (for example, an approval
notice or copy of your passport with your T nonimmigrant visa). If you file Form I-765 after filing Form I-485,
submit a copy of your Form I-485 receipt notice. While your Form I-485 is pending, we will extend T nonimmigrant
status until a decision is made on your Form I-485.
13. U-1 Nonimmigrant--(a)(19). If you are currently residing in the United States and your Form I-918, Petition for U
Nonimmigrant Status, is approved, you will receive employment authorization incident to status and USCIS will send
you an EAD as evidence of that authorization. You do not need to file Form I-765. If you resided outside the United
States when your Form I-918 was approved, you must file Form I-765 with USCIS when you enter the United States.
You must submit a copy of your passport with your U nonimmigrant visa.
If we granted your U nonimmigrant status and you want to request a replacement of an EAD, file Form I-765 along
with evidence of your U nonimmigrant status (for example, an approval notice).
If you have filed Form I-539 to extend your U-1 nonimmigrant status, you may file Form I-765 to request a renewal
of your EAD, along with evidence of your U-1 nonimmigrant status (for example, an approval notice). You may file
Form I-765 together with Form I-539 or after we approve your Form I-539. If you file Form I-765 after we approve
your Form I-539, submit a copy of your I-539 approval notice.
NOTE: U-1 nonimmigrants living outside the United States are not eligible to receive an EAD until they lawfully
enter the United States. If you have an approved Form I-918 but are outside the United States, do not file Form I-765
until you have entered the United States.
NOTE: If the statutory cap is reached within a fiscal year and USCIS uses the waiting list process described at
8 CFR 214.14(d)(2), U-1 petitioners for U nonimmigrant status in the United States can file Form I-765 to apply for
an EAD based on deferred action ((c)(14)). An application for employment authorization based on deferred action
can only be approved after DHS has issued deferred action in your case, regardless of when Form I-765 is filed.
14. U-2, U-3, U-4, or U-5--(a)(20). You may file Form I-765 at the same time as Form 918, Supplement A, Petition for
Qualifying Family Member of U-1 Recipient, or you may file Form I-765 at a later time. If USCIS has granted you
derivative U nonimmigrant status, file Form I-765 along with proof of your derivative U nonimmigrant status. If
you obtained derivative U nonimmigrant status while in the United States, you must submit a copy of the approval
notice for that 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.
If you (or the principal U-1 nonimmigrant) filed Form I-539 to extend your U-2, U-3, U-4, or U-5 nonimmigrant
status, you may file Form I-765 to request an initial or renewal EAD, along with evidence of your nonimmigrant
status (for example, an approval notice or copy of your passport with your U nonimmigrant visa). You may file Form
I-765 together with Form I-539 or after we approve your Form I-539. If you file Form I-765 after we approve your
Form I-539, submit a copy of your Form I-539 approval notice.
NOTE: Derivative family members of U-1 nonimmigrants living outside the United States are not eligible to receive
an EAD until they lawfully enter the United States. If you are a derivative family member who is outside the United
States, do not file Form I-765.

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NOTE: If the statutory cap is reached within a fiscal year and USCIS uses the waiting list process described at
8 CFR 214.14(d)(2), derivative family members of U-1 petitioners for U nonimmigrant status in the United States can
file Form I-765 to apply for an EAD based on deferred action ((c)(14)). An application for employment authorization
based on deferred action can only be approved after DHS has issued deferred action in your case, regardless of when
Form I-765 is filed.
15. U Nonimmigrant Adjustment of Status--(c)(9). If you filed Form I-485 to adjust your status from a U-1, U-2, U-3,
U-4, or U-5 Nonimmigrant to a lawful permanent resident, you may file Form I-765 along with Form I-485 if you are
seeking an EAD. You should also include evidence of your U nonimmigrant status (for example, an approval notice
or copy of your passport with your U nonimmigrant visa). If you file Form I-765 after filing your Form I-485, submit
a copy of your Form I-485 receipt notice. While your Form I-485 is pending, we will extend your U nonimmigrant
status until we make a decision on your Form I-485.

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16. VAWA Self-Petitioners--(c)(31). If you are the self-petitioner or derivative child of an approved Form I-360, Petition
for Amerasian, Widow(er), or Special Immigrant, filed as a VAWA self- petitioner and residing in the United States,
you are eligible for work authorization. If you are filing a Form I-360 VAWA self-petition, and request an initial
EAD on Form I-360 as the principal beneficiary of the self-petition, you do not need to file Form I-765. Principal
beneficiaries of an approved VAWA self-petition seeking a renewal or replacement EAD, and derivative children
seeking an EAD must use Form I-765. File Form I-765 with evidence of the principal beneficiary’s approved Form
I-360 VAWA self- petition (for example, a copy of the VAWA self-petition approval notice).
17. A-3 or G-5 Nonimmigrant--(c)(14). If you have filed a pending civil action against your employer because your
employer violated the terms of your employment contract or conditions of your employment, you may file Form I-765
to request deferred action and receive work authorization. File Form I-765 with a copy of the civil complaint filed in
court and proof of lawful admission into the United States in A-3 or G-5 status (for example, a copy of your passport
with your A-3 or G-5 nonimmigrant visa). If you are requesting renewal after your initial employment authorization
is granted, file Form I-765 with evidence that the civil case is still pending (for example, a recent court docket update).
18. Applicant for Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands (CNMI) Long-Term Resident Status-(c)(37). You must file Form I-765 together with your Form I-955, Application for CNMI Long-Term Resident Status.
If you do not submit your Form I-765 with all applicable fees together with your Form I-955, the entire submission
will be rejected. A fee waiver is not available. If your Form I-955 is approved, you will receive an employment
authorization document as evidence of your CNMI Long-Term Resident Status and evidence that you are authorized
for employment in the CNMI incident to status.

General Instructions
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 Contact Center at 1-800-375-5283 and ask that we mail a form to you. The
USCIS Contact Center provides information in English and Spanish. For TTY (deaf or hard of hearing) call
1-800-767-1833.
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. A legal guardian may also sign for a mentally incompetent
person. If the request is not signed or if the requisite signature on the request is not valid, USCIS will reject the request.
See 8 CFR 103.2(a)(7)(ii)(A). If USCIS accepts a request for adjudication and determines that it has a deficient signature,
we will deny the request.
Validity of Signatures. USCIS will consider a photocopied, faxed, or scanned copy of the original, handwritten signature
valid for filing purposes. The photocopy, fax, or scan must be of the original document containing the handwritten, ink
signature.

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Filing Fee. Each application must be accompanied by the appropriate filing fee. (See the What Is the Filing Fee section
of these Instructions.)
Biometric Services Fee. If you file this application with USCIS, you do not need to include a biometric services fee
at the time you submit your application. If you are later notified that you must submit biometrics, you will receive a
biometric services appointment notice with instructions on how to submit the additional biometric services fee. If you
file this application with an agency other than USCIS, please check with that agency to determine if and when you must
submit a biometric services fee.
Evidence. At the time of filing, you must submit all evidence and supporting documents listed in the Required
Documentation section of these Instructions. If you do not have and cannot get a required document, you must
demonstrate this and provide secondary evidence. If secondary evidence does not exist or is unavailable, you must
demonstrate both the unavailability of the required document and the relevant secondary evidence and submit two or more
sworn affidavits by people not named on this application who have direct knowledge of the event and circumstances.

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Biometric Services Appointment. USCIS may require that you appear for an interview or provide biometrics
(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 or petition. After USCIS receives your application and
ensures it is complete, we will inform you 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 are required to provide biometrics, at your appointment you must sign an oath reaffirming that:
1. You provided or authorized all information in the application;

2. You reviewed and understood all of the information contained in, and submitted with, your application; and
3. All of this information was complete, true, and correct at the time of filing.

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 or petition. 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 after we receive them.
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 also include the
translator’s signature, printed name, the signature date, and the translator’s contact information.
Delivery Information. If your application is approved, your ensuing document (Permanent Resident Card, Employment
Authorization Document, or Travel Document) may be delivered using the United States Postal Service’s (USPS)
Signature Confirmation Restricted Delivery (SCRD) service. If SCRD is used for delivery, you will be required to sign
for delivery of your document. You must provide identification as requested by USPS. If you are not able to sign for your
document, you may designate an agent to sign on your behalf. To do this you must complete the US Postal Service Form
3801 and submit it to your local Post Office. Alternatively, if you would like your attorney or accredited representative
to receive the document, please ensure that a Form G-28, Notice of Entry of Appearance as Attorney or Accredited
Representative, has been filed with USCIS.

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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, use the space provided in Part 8. Additional
Information or attach a separate sheet of paper. Type or print your name and Alien Registration Number (A-Number)
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. 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.

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4. Your application must be properly completed, signed, and filed. You must include all pages when you file Form I-765,
even if the pages do not apply to you and are unanswered.

Specific Instructions

Part 1. Reason for Applying.

You must select one Item Number that best describes your reason for applying:
Item Number A. Inital employment authorization document.

Item Number B. Replacement of a lost, stolen, or damaged EAD, or correction of your EAD not due to USCIS error.
Indicate the reason for which you are requesting a replacement document. Select only one of the options.
NOTE: Replacement (correction) of an employment authorization document due to USCIS error does not require a
new Form I-765 and filing fee. Refer to Replacement for Card Error in the What Is the Filing Fee section of these
Instructions for further details.
Item Number C. Renewal of your employment authorization document. If you select Item Number C., attach a copy of
your previous EAD.
Part 2. Information About You
Item Numbers 1. Your Full Legal Name. Provide your full legal name as shown on your birth certificate or legal
change of name document in the spaces provided.
Item Numbers 2. Other Names Used. Provide all other names you have ever used, including aliases, maiden name, and
nicknames. If you need extra space to complete this section, use the space provided in Part 8. Additional Information.
Submit evidence of any other names you have ever used, for example, a birth certificate, marriage certificate, divorce
documents, government ID, or passport identity page.
Item Numbers 3. - 4. Your U.S. Mailing Address or Safe Mailing Address. You must provide a valid mailing address
in the United States. You may list a valid U.S. residence, APO, or commercial address. You may also list a U.S. Post
Office address (PO Box) if that is how you receive your mail. If your mail is sent to someone other than yourself, please
include an “In Care Of Name” as part of your mailing address. If your U.S. mailing address is in a U.S. territory and it
contains an urbanization name, list the urbanization name in the “In Care Of Name” space provided. We will send your
EAD to this address. Do not use your attorney’s or other legal representative’s address unless you want your EAD sent to
their address.

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NOTE: If you have a pending or approved petition or application based on the Violence Against Women Act (VAWA),
as a human trafficking victim (T nonimmigrant), or as a victim of a qualifying crime (U nonimmigrant) and you do not
feel safe receiving mail about this application at your home address, provide a safe mailing address in Part 2., Item
Number 3., and select the box in Item Number 4. Only select “Yes” in Item Number 4. if this section is applicable to
you, otherwise select “No.” The safe mailing address may be a post office box; the address of a friend, your attorney,
or a community-based organization that is helping you; or any other address where you can safely and promply receive
mail. If you have an attorney or accredited representative, you may also direct USCIS to send your correspondence and
EAD to your attorney’s business address by selecting the applicable items on Form G-28, Notice of Entry of Appearance
as Attorney or Accredited Representative, Part 4. If your safe mailing address is not the same as the address where you
currently reside, provide your U.S. physical address in Item Number 6.

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Item Numbers 5. - 6. U.S. Physical Address. Type or print your physical address in the spaces provided.
Item Number 7. Alien Registration Number (A-Number). An Alien Registration Number, otherwise known as an
“A-Number,” is typically issued to people who apply for, or are granted, certain immigration benefits. In addition to
USCIS, ICE, U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP), EOIR, and DOS may also issue an A-Number to certain foreign
nationals. If you were issued an A-Number, type or print it in the spaces provided. If you are renewing your EAD, this
number may be listed as the USCIS Number on the front of the card. If you have more than one A-Number, use the
space provided in Part 6. Additional Information to provide the information. If you do not have an A-Number or if you
cannot remember it, leave this space blank.
Item Number 9. Gender. Select the box that indicates whether you are male or female.

Item Number 10. Marital Status. Select the box that describes the marital status you have on the date you file Form
I-765.
Item Number 11. Place of Birth. Enter the name of the city, town, or village; state or province; and country where you
were born. Type or print the name of the country as it was named when you were born, even if the country’s name has
changed or the country no longer exists.
Item Number 12. Date of Birth. Enter your date of birth in mm/dd/yyyy format in the space provided. For example,
type or print October 5, 1967, as 10/05/1967.
Item Number 13. Country or Countries of Citizenship or Nationality. Type or print the name of the country or
countries where you are currently a citizen or national.
1. If you are stateless, type or print the name of the country where you were last a citizen or national.
2. If you are a citizen or national of more than one country, type or print the name of the foreign country that issued your
last passport.
Item Numbers 14. Previous Application for Employment Authorization from USCIS. If you have applied for
employment authorization in the past, select “Yes” for Item Number 14. Provide copies of your previous EADs, if
available.
Item Number 15. Form I-94 Arrival-Departure Record. If CBP or USCIS issued you a Form I-94, Arrival-Departure
Record, provide your Form I-94 number and the date that your authorized period of stay expires or expired (as shown on
your Form I-94). The Form I-94 number also is known as the Departure Number on some versions of Form I-94.

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NOTE: If you were admitted to the United States by CBP at an airport or seaport after April 30, 2013, CBP may have
issued you an electronic Form I-94 instead of a paper Form I-94. You may visit the CBP website at www.cbp.gov/i94 to
obtain a paper version of an electronic Form I-94. CBP does not charge a fee for this service. Some travelers admitted to
the United States at a land border, airport, or seaport, after April 30, 2013, with a passport or travel document, who were
issued a paper Form I-94 by CBP, may also be able to obtain a replacement Form I-94 from the CBP website without
charge. If you cannot obtain your Form I-94 from the CBP website, you may obtain it by filing Form I-102, Application
for Replacement/Initial Nonimmigrant Arrival-Departure Record, with USCIS. USCIS does charge a fee for this service.
See the USCIS website at www.uscis.gov/I-102 for more information.
Passport and Travel Document Numbers. If you used a passport or travel document to travel to the United States, enter
either the passport or travel document information in the appropriate space on the application, even if the passport or
travel document is currently expired.

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Item Number 16. Date of Your Last Arrival Into the United States, On or About. Provide the date on which you last
entered the United States in mm/dd/yyyy format.
Item Number 17. Place of Your Last Arrival Into the United States. Provide the location where you last entered the
United States.
Item Number 18. Immigration Status at Your Last Arrival. Provide the letter and number that correlates with your
status when you last entered the United States. For example, if you last entered the United States as a temporary visitor
for pleasure, B-2, type or print “B-2 visitor” in the space provided.
Item Number 19. Your Current Immigration Status or Category. Provide your current immigration status. For
example, if your current status is student academic, F-1, type or print “F-1 student” in the space provided.
Item Number 20. Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS) Number. If you were issued a SEVIS
number, enter it in the space provided.
Part 3. Information About Your Eligibility Category

Item Number 1. Eligibility Category. Refer to the list of the eligibility categories in the Who May File Form I-765
section of these Instructions. Find your eligibility category, and enter it in the space provided.
Item Number 2. (c)(3)(C) STEM OPT Eligibility Category. If you entered eligibility category (c)(3)(C) in Item
Number 1., provide your degree level and major (for example, Bachelor’s degree in English), your employer’s name as
listed in E-Verify, your employer’s E-Verify Company Identification Number, or E-Verify Client Company Identification
Number in the spaces provided.
Item Number 3.A. (c)(8) Eligibility Category. If you entered the (c)(8) eligibility category in Item Number 1. and are
eligible for benefits under ABC settlement agreement as a Salvadoran or Guatemalan national, you should select the box.
Item Number 3.B. (c)(8) Eligibility Category. If you entered the eligibility category (c)(8) in Item Number 1., provide
an answer to the question “Have you have EVER been arrested for and/or convicted of any crime?” If you answered
“Yes” to Item Number 3.B., refer to Special Filing Instructions for Those With Pending Asylum Applications (c)(8)
in the Required Documentation section of the Instructions for information about providing court dispositions.
Item Number 4. (c)(26) Eligibility Category. If you entered eligibility category (c)(26) in Item Number 1., provide
the receipt number of your spouse’s most recent Form I-797 Notice for variant Form I-129, Petition for a Nonimmigrant
Worker, in the space provided.
Item Number 5.A. (c)(35) and (c)(36) Eligibility Category. If you entered the eligibility category (c)(35) or (c)(36) in
Item Number 1., please provide the receipt number of your Form I-797 Notice for Form I-140 or the receipt number of
your spouse’s or parent’s Form I-797 Notice for Form I-140. Provide an answer to the question “Have you EVER been
arrested for and/or convicted of any crime?”

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NOTE: If you answered “Yes” to Item B. in Item Number 5., refer to Employment-Based Nonimmigrant Categories,
Items 8. - 9. in the Who May File Form I-765 section of the Instructions for information about providing court
dispositions.
Item Number 6. If you entered the eligibility category (c)(9) in Item Number 1., select the appropriate box for the
immigrant category you are applying under.
Part 4. Social Security Card Information
Item Numbers 1. - 5. Questions regarding Social Security Number (SSN). Item A. in Item Number 1. asks you if
the Social Security Administration (SSA) has ever officially issued you a Social Security card. If the SSA ever issued a
Social Security card to you in your name or a previously used name such as your maiden name, then you must enter the
SSN from your card in Item B. in Item Number 1.

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If your request for employment authorization is approved, the SSA may assign you an SSN and issue you a Social
Security card, or issue you a replacement card. If you want the SSA to assign you a Social Security number and issue you
a Social Security card, or issue you a new or replacement Social Security card, then answer “Yes” to both Item Number
2. and Item Number 3. You must also provide your father’s and mother’s family and given names at birth in Item
Numbers 4. - 5. SSA will use Item Numbers 4. - 5. in issuing you a Social Security card.
You are not required to request an SSN using this application. Completing Item Numbers 2. - 5. is optional. However,
you must have an SSN properly assigned in your name to work in the United States.
NOTE: If your employer uses E-Verify to confirm new employees’ eligibility to legally work in the United States, the
information you provide on Form I-9, Employment Eligibility Verification, will be compared to data in SSA and DHS
databases. Employees must have an SSN in order for E-Verify to confirm their eligibility to legally work in the United
States.
Part 5. Applicant’s Statement, Contact Information, Certification, and Signature

Item Numbers 1. - 6. Select the appropriate box to indicate whether you read this application yourself or whether you
had an interpreter assist you. If someone assisted you in completing the application, select the box indicating that you
used a preparer. Further, you must sign and date your application and provide your daytime telephone number, mobile
telephone number (if any), and email address (if any). Every application MUST contain the signature of the applicant (or
parent or legal guardian, if applicable). A stamped or typewritten name in place of a signature is not acceptable.
Part 6. Interpreter’s Contact Information, Certification, and Signature
Item Numbers 1. - 7. If you used anyone as an interpreter to read the Instructions and questions on this application to
you in a language in which you are fluent, the interpreter must fill out this section; provide his or her name, the name and
address of his or her business or organization (if any), his or her daytime telephone number, his or her mobile telephone
number (if any), and his or her email address (if any). The interpreter must sign and date the application.
Part 7. Contact Information, Declaration, and Signature of the Person Preparing this Application, if Other Than
the Applicant
Item Numbers 1. - 8. This section must contain the signature of the person who completed your application, if other than
you, the applicant. If the same individual acted as your interpreter and your preparer, that person should complete both
Part 6. and Part 7. If the person who completed this application is associated with a business or organization, that person
should complete the business or organization name and address information. Anyone who helped you complete this
application MUST sign and date the application. A stamped or typewritten name in place of a signature is not acceptable.
If the person who helped you prepare your application is an attorney or accredited representative, he or she may also need
to submit a completed Form G-28, Notice of Entry of Appearance as Attorney or Accredited Representative, along with
your application.

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Part 8. Additional Information
Item Numbers 1. - 6. If you need extra space to provide any additional information within this application, use the space
provided in Part 8. Additional Information. If you need more space than what is provided in Part 8., you may make
copies of Part 8. to complete and file with your application, or attach a separate sheet of paper. Type or print your name
and A-Number 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.
We recommend that you print or save a copy of your completed application to review in the future and
for your records.

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Required Documentation

You must submit all evidence requested in these Instructions with your application. If you fail to submit required
evidence, USCIS may reject or deny your application for failure to submit requested evidence or supporting documents in
accordance with 8 CFR 103.2(b)(1) and these Instructions.
You must file all applications with the documents required below, the particular evidence required for each category listed
in the Who May File Form I-765 section of these Instructions, and the appropriate filing 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. The appropriate filing fee, if applicable. See the What Is the Filing Fee section of these Instructions for details.
2. Your properly signed application.
3. The following documents.

A. A copy of at least one of the following documents: Form I-94, Arrival-Departure Record (front and back), a
printout of your electronic Form I-94 from www.cbp.gov/i94: a passport or other travel document. If you are
filing Form I-765 under the (c)(9) category, these are not required.
B. A copy of your last EAD (front and back). If you were not previously issued an EAD, 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 your facial features and contain your
biographical information.
NOTE: If you are filing under the (c)(33) eligibility category, you are not required to submit additional
documentation beyond what you submit with Form I-821D under 2. What documents do you need to provide to
prove identity in the Evidence for Initial Requests Only section of the Form I-821D Instructions.
C. Photographs
You must submit two identical color passport-style photographs of yourself taken recently. The photos must
have a white to off-white background, be printed on thin paper with a glossy finish, and be unmounted and
unretouched.

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The two identical passport-style photos must be 2 by 2 inches. The photos must be in color with a full face,
frontal view, on a white to off-white background. Head height should measure 1 to 1 3/8 inches from the top of
your hair to the bottom of your chin, and eye height should measure between 1 1/8 to 1 3/8 inches from the top
of your eyes to the bottom of the 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
A-Number on the back of the photo.
Special Filing Instructions for Those With Pending Asylum Applications--(c)(8)
4. Asylum and Withholding of Deportation Applicants (with a pending Form I-589) who filed ON OR AFTER
January 4, 1995 -- (c)(8). You are subject to a 150-day waiting period after the filing of your Form I-589,
Application for Asylum and for Withholding of Removal, before you can apply for an EAD, and an additional 30-day
period before we can issue you an EAD, for a total of 180 days. The number of days a completed asylum application
is considered pending does not include any delays requested or caused by you while your application is pending
with the USCIS asylum office or with an EOIR IJ. (See 8 CFR 208.7.) This time period during which your asylum
application is pending before we may grant you an EAD is called the “180-day asylum EAD clock.” We may reject
your Form I-765 if you file it before the 150-day waiting period has elapsed. Some examples of delays that may be
caused by you while your application is pending with the USCIS Asylum Office include, but are not limited to:

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A. Failure to appear at your interview or fingerprint appointment;

B. Failure to receive and acknowledge your asylum decision in person (if required);
C. A request to reschedule your interview for a later date;

D. A request to transfer your case to a new asylum office or interview location, including when the transfer is based
on a new address;
E. A request to provide additional evidence after your interview; and
F. Failure to provide a competent interpreter at your interview.

Additionally, if you fail to appear for your interview with a USCIS asylum office or for a hearing before an EOIR IJ, you
may be ineligible for an EAD.
If you have received a Recommended Approval notice from the USCIS asylum office recommending a grant of asylum,
you do not need to wait 150 days and may apply for an EAD immediately upon receipt of this notice. Provide a copy of
your notice as evidence of your recommended approval with your Form I-765.
If you are a category (c)(8) applicant who has met the requisite 150-day waiting period to file Form I-765, not including
delays caused or requested by you, file your Form I-765 with the following evidence, where applicable:
A. If you filed your Form I-589 with USCIS, a copy of the following: the USCIS Acknowledgement of Receipt
that was mailed to you and your USCIS Asylum Interview Notice (scheduling, re-scheduling, or cancelling your
asylum interview); your Form I-797C Notice (ASC appointment notice) for a biometrics appointment for your
Form I-589; or other evidence that you filed your Form I-589 with USCIS.
B. If you lodged or filed your Form I-589 with EOIR, acknowledgement of receipt of your application or other
available evidence.
C. If an EOIR IJ has denied your asylum and withholding of removal relief, but you met the requisite 180-day
waiting period prior to the EOIR IJ’s decision in your case, evidence that you:
(1) Timely appealed the EOIR IJ’s decision on your Form I-589 to the BIA and the appeal remains pending; and
(2) If applicable, evidence that you timely appealed the BIA decision on your Form I-589 to a U.S. Court of
Appeals and that decision remains pending.
D. If your Form I-589 has been remanded to an EOIR IJ for further adjudication of your underlying asylum claim:
(1) A copy of the BIA decision and order remanding your case to the EOIR IJ; and
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(2) Evidence that your asylum claim remains under review by the EOIR IJ.
E. Evidence of Arrests and Conviction. For initial and renewal applications, you are required to submit evidence
of any arrests and/or convictions. If you have been convicted of an aggravated felony, you cannot be granted
employment authorization under this eligibility category. USCIS will make the determination as to whether your
convictions meet the definition of aggravated felony. You must, however, provide information and any supporting
documentation on all crimes you were convicted of so USCIS can make an appropriate decision. Provide a
certified copy of all arrest reports, court dispositions, sentencing documents, and any other relevant documents.
5. Asylum and Withholding of Deportation Applicants (with a pending Form I-589) who filed BEFORE January
4, 1995 -- (c)(8). You may file Form I-765 at any time; however, we will only grant your employment authorization if
we find that your asylum application is not frivolous. File Form I-765 with a copy of the following documents, where
applicable:

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A. Your date-stamped previously filed Form I-589;

B. If you filed your Form I-589 with the former Immigration and Naturalization Service (INS), an INS
Acknowledgement of Receipt;
C. A USCIS Asylum Interview Notice (scheduling, re-scheduling, or cancelling your asylum interview);
D. Form I-797 Notice, Fingerprint Notification (for a fingerprint appointment for your Form I-589);
E. If you filed your Form I-589 in exclusion or deportation proceedings, evidence that your Form I-589 was filed
with EOIR;
F. If you are currently in exclusion or deportation proceedings, 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; or
G. Evidence that your Form I-589 remains under administrative or judicial review.

6. 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.
796 (N.D. Cal. 1991), you are entitled to an EAD under the ABC settlement.
Your Form I-765 will be decided within 60 days if:

1. You identify yourself as an ABC class member by selecting the box in Part 3., Item Number 4. of this application;
2. You pay the filing fee; and
3. You have a complete pending asylum application on file. You must have filed your asylum application (Form I-589)
with us (former Immigration and Naturalization Service (INS) or USCIS) or with an EOIR IJ to receive an EAD.
Therefore, submit evidence that you previously filed a complete asylum application when you submit Form I-765.
You are not required to submit this evidence when you apply, but it will help us process your request more efficiently.

What Is the Filing Fee?
The filing fee for Form I-765 is $550; however, this may vary depending on your eligibility category. See the Fee
Variations for Specific Eligibility Categories and Filing Fee Exemptions section for more information.
The filing fee is not refundable, regardless of any action USCIS takes on this application. DO NOT MAIL CASH. You
must submit all fees in the exact amounts.

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Biometric Services Fee
The following eligibility categories must also pay the following biometric services fee:
Eligibility Category

Biometric Services Fee

(c)(8) An asylum applicant with a pending Form I-589

$30

(c)(33) Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals

$85

(c)(37) An applicant for status as a long-term resident of
the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands

$30

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Fee Variations for Specific Eligibility Categories

(c)(33) Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals. The filing fee for Form I-765 for all requestors under this category is
$410. The filing fee for this application cannot be waived.
Filing Fee Exemptions

If you are applying under one of the following categories under 8 CFR 274a.12 and other provisions, you do not need to
pay a filing fee.
Eligibility Category
(a)(3) Refugee

Reason for Filing Form I-765
Initial EAD

(a)(4) Paroled as refugee

Initial EAD

(a)(5) Asylee

Initial EAD

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

Initial EAD

(a)(16) Victim of severe form of trafficking (T-1
nonimmigrant)

Initial EAD

(a)(19) Victim of qualifying criminal activity (U-1
nonimmigrant)

Initial EAD

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

Initial EAD

(c)(2) Taiwanese dependent of Taipei Economic and
Cultural Representative Office TECRO E-1 employees

Initial EAD

Renewal EAD
Replacement EAD
Renewal EAD
Replacement EAD

(c)(9) Applicant adjusting under the Cuban Adjustment
Initial EAD
Act for battered spouses and children (principal) who has a
pending adjustment of status application (Form I-485)
(c)(9) Applicant adjusting based on dependent status under
the Haitian Refugee Immigrant Fairness Act for battered
spouses and children (principal) who has a pending
adjustment of status application (Form I-485)

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Eligibility Category

Reason for Filing Form I-765

(c)(9) Applicant adjusting under the Nicaraguan
Adjustment and Central American Relief Act for battered
spouses and children (principal) who has a pending
adjustment of status application (Form I-485)

Initial EAD

(c)(9) Applicant for Special Immigrant Status based on
an approved Form I-360 as an Afghan or Iraqi Translator
or Interpreter, Iraqi National employed by or on behalf
of the U.S. Government, or Afghan National employed
by or on behalf of the U.S. government or employed by
the International Security Assistance Forces who has a
pending adjustment of status application (Form I-485)

Initial EAD
Renewal EAD

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Replacement EAD

(c)(9) or (c)(16) Any current adjustment of status or
Initial EAD
registry applicant who filed for adjustment of status on
Renewal EAD
or after July 30, 2007 and before [INSERT EFFECTIVE
Replacement EAD
DATE OF 2018/2019 FEE RULE], and paid the
appropriate Form I-485 filing fee. You must submit a copy
of your Form I-797C Notice for Form I-485 as evidence
you filed Form I-485 during that time period and paid the
appropriate fee. If you did not pay the Form I-485 fee,
you must pay the Form I-765 filing fee.
(c)(31) VAWA self-petitioner

Initial EAD

If you are requesting a replacement EAD because your
previously issued card was lost, stolen, or damaged, but
has not expired, you paid form I-485 filing fee, and have
filed for adjustment of status on or after July 30, 2007 and
before [INSERT EFFECTIVE DATE OF 2018/2019 FEE
RULE]. If you did not pay the Form I-485 filing fee, you
must pay the Form I-765 filing fee.

Replacement for lost, stolen, or damage EAD

Attributed to our error. If the card we issued to you
contains incorrect information that is attributed to our
error, you must submit a letter explaining the error, along
with the card containing the error to the service center or
National Benefits Center that approved your last Form
I-765.

•

You do not need to file a new Form I-765 and you do
not need to pay the Form I-765 filing fee.

Not attributed to our error. If the card we issued to you
contains incorrect information that is not attributed to our
error, you must file Form I-765.

•

You do not need to pay the Form I-765 filing fee if
you have filed for adjustment of status on or after July
30, 2007 and before [INSERT EFFECTIVE DATE OF
2018/2019 FEE RULE] and you paid the Form I-485
filing fee.

•

You must pay the Form I-765 filing fee if you have
filed for adjustment of status on or after July 30,
2007 and before [INSERT EFFECTIVE DATE OF
2018/2019 FEE RULE] and you did not pay the Form
I-485 filing fee. – Replacement due to card error

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Payments by Check or Money Order
Use the following guidelines when you prepare your check or money order for the Form I-765 filing fee:
1. 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.
NOTE: Spell out U.S. Department of Homeland Security; do not use the initials “USDHS” or “DHS.”
Notice to Those Paying by Check. If you send USCIS a check, we will convert it 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 your bank will show it on your regular
account statement.

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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
USCIS cannot process the EFT for technical reasons, you authorize us to process the copy in place of your original check.
If your check is returned as unpayable, we will re-submit the payment to the financial institution one time. If the check is
returned as unpayable, we may reject your application.
Payments by Credit Card

If you are filing your application at a USCIS Lockbox facility, you can pay your filing fee using a credit card. Please see
Form G-1450, Authorization for Credit Card Transactions, at www.uscis.gov/G-1450 for more information.
When Filing at a Field Office

Cash, a cashier’s check or money order cannot be used to pay for the filing and/or biometric services fee at a field office.
The only payment options accepted at a field office are payment through pay.gov via a credit card, debit card or with a
personal check.
How To Determine 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 fee is 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. Visit the USCIS Contact Center at www.uscis.gov/contactcenter to get answers to your questions and connect with a
live USCIS representative. The USCIS Contact Center provides information in English and Spanish. For TTY (deaf
or hard of hearing) call: 1-800-767-1833.
Fee Waiver
Some forms may be eligible for fee waivers as provided in 8 CFR 106.3. For information on fee waivers, see Form I-912,
Request for Fee Waiver at www.uscis.gov/i-912.

Where to File?
Please see our website at www.uscis.gov/I-765 or visit the USCIS Contact Center at www.uscis.gov/contactcenter to
connect with a USCIS representative for the most current information about where to file this application. The USCIS
Contact Center provides information in English and Spanish. For TTY (deaf or hard of hearing) call 1-800-767-1833.
If you are requesting an EAD as an initial TPS applicant or a TPS beneficiary, see the Form I-821 Instructions and
the most recent Federal Register notice regarding a TPS designation, re-designation, or extension for your country for
additional guidance and filing location. You can find information on countries designated for TPS on our website at
www.uscis.gov/tps.
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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 reach out to the USCIS Contact Center at www.uscis.gov/contactcenter for help. The USCIS Contact
Center provides information in English and Spanish. For TTY (deaf or hard of hearing) call: 1-800-767-1833.
NOTE: Do not submit a change of address request to the USCIS Lockbox facilities because the Lockbox does not
process change of address requests.

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Processing Information

You must have a United States address to file this application.

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.
Requests for More Information. USCIS 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 we request an original
document from you, it will be returned to you after USCIS determines it no longer needs your original.
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 biometrics 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 your application is approved, we will either mail your EAD to you or we may require you to visit your local
USCIS office to pick it up.
Denial. If USCIS cannot approve your application, you will receive a written notice explaining the basis of your denial.

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 call
the USCIS Contact Center at 1-800-375-5283 and ask that we mail a form to you. The USCIS Contact Center provides
information in English and Spanish. For TTY (deaf or hard of hearing) call: 1-800-767-1833.
Please visit us at www.uscis.gov/contactcenter to get basic information about immigration services and ask questions
about a pending case. Through our digital self-help tools and live assistance, the USCIS Contact Center provides a
pathway for you to get consistent, accurate information and answers to immigration case questions.

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.

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SSA Privacy Act Statement
Sections 205(c) and 702 of the Social Security Act authorize SSA to collect information to assign you an SSN and issue
a Social Security card. The information you furnish on this application is voluntary. However, failure to provide the
requested information may prevent SSA from issuing you an SSN and Social Security card. SSA will maintain the
information used to assign you an SSN and issue you a Social Security card in SSA’s system of records [Master Files of
Social Security Number (SSN) Holders and SSN Applications, 60-0058]. Complete lists of approved routine uses for the
information used to assign you an SSN and issue you a Social Security card are available in the System of Records Notice
60-0058, available at www.ssa.gov.

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DHS Privacy Notice

AUTHORITIES: The information requested on this application, and the associated evidence, is collected under the
Immigration and Nationality Act, 8 U.S.C. section 1324a, and 8 CFR 274a.13.
PURPOSE: The primary purpose for providing the requested information on this application is to determine eligibility
for certain aliens who are temporarily in the United States requesting an Employment Authorization Document. DHS uses
the information you provide to grant or deny the immigration benefit you are seeking.
DISCLOSURE: The information you provide is voluntary. However, failure to provide the requested information,
including your Social Security number, and any requested evidence, may delay a final decision or result in a rejection or
denial of your application.
ROUTINE USES: DHS may, where allowable under relevant confidentiality provisions, share the information you
provide on this application and any additional requested evidence with other Federal, state, local, and foreign government
agencies and authorized organizations. DHS follows approved routine uses described in the associated published system
of records notices [DHS/USCIS/ICE/CBP-001 Alien File, Index, and National File Tracking System; DHS/USCIS-007
Benefit Information System; DHS/USCIS-010 Asylum Information and Pre-Screening; DHS/USCIS-017 Refugee Case
Processing and Security Screening Information System; DHS/USCIS-018 Immigration Biometric and Background Check]
and the published privacy impact assessments [DHS/USCIS/PIA-016(a) Computer Linked Application Information
Management System and Associated Systems; DHS/USCIS/PIA-027 Asylum Division; DHS/USCIS/PIA-056 USCIS
Electronic Immigration System; and DHS/USCIS/PIA-068 Refugee Case Processing and Security Vetting], which you can
find at www.dhs.gov/privacy. DHS may also share this information as appropriate for law enforcement purposes or in
the interest of national security.

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 Office of Management and Budget (OMB) control number. The public
reporting burden for this collection of information is estimated at 4 hours and 30 minutes per response, including the time
for reviewing instructions, gathering the required documentation and information, completing the application, preparing
statements, attaching necessary documentation, and submitting the application. The collection of biometrics is estimated
to require 1 hour and 10 minutes. The public reporting burden for the collection of information for Form I-765WS is
estimated at 30 minutes per response, including the time for reviewing instructions, gathering the required documentation
and information, completing the application, preparing statements, attaching necessary documentation, and submitting the
application. 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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