How Can I Renew My Work Permit (EAD) in the U.S.?

In the United States, every employee of every company must be authorized to work in the country. For non-citizens, this means that there is an extensive legal process to ensure that you are permitted to work. One of the most popular ways to become eligible for employment in the United States is through obtaining an EAD permit. However, maintaining a valid employment status is just as important as securing a permit in the first place. It is crucial that you know how to renew your EAD work permit in the United States. For more information and skilled representation, reach out to a knowledgeable I-765 work authorization lawyer in New York City today.

What is an EAD?

An EAD (Employment Authorization Document) is exactly what it sounds like. It is a document that establishes an individual’s legal right to work in the United States. EADs are issued by the USCIS (United States Citizenship and Immigration Services) to foreign nationals who qualify for employment but need evidence of that fact.

You may be eligible for an EAD if you fall into one of the following categories.

Applicants for adjustment of status
DACA (Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals) recipients
Asylum seekers or refugees
TPS (Temporary Protected Status) holders
F-1 students on OPT (Optional Practical Training) or with economic hardship
Certain student visa holders
Spouses of H-1B, L-1, or E visa holders
Applicants for cancellation of removal

The EAD is similar to a green card in the sense that it is a physical card providing hard evidence of your rights in the United States. It will state your name, date of birth, Alien Registration Number, visa classification, and your authorization’s expiration date, as well as contain a photo for identification purposes.

How Can I Renew My Work Permit (EAD)?

To renew your EAD work permit, you must simply repeat the steps you took in your initial application process. File Form I-765, the Application for Employment Authorization with the USCIS. You will be required to submit current and accurate supporting documents and information, including the following.

A copy of your most recent I-94 travel record
A copy of your current U.S. visa
A copy of your passport photo page
Two identical passport-style photos of yourself
A copy of your last EAD card
Form G-28, if you are represented by an attorney or accredited representative

Depending on your status, you may also be required to provide documentation like student status verifications, DACA approval notices, asylum information, etc. Unless you qualify for a waiver, you will also have to submit the filing fee of $470 when filing online or $520 when filing through the mail.

It is highly recommended that you submit your renewal application 6 months in advance of your work permit expiration date. This prevents any gaps in your authorization and allows you to avoid potential issues.

For more information and legal representation, reach out to a skilled immigration lawyer today.