How Long Does It Take to Get a Work Permit?

If you need legal authorization to work in the United States, getting a work permit is often your first step toward building a career here.

This guide explains how long the process takes, what affects timing, frequently asked questions about the process, and how to prepare your application for faster approval.

What is a work permit, and who needs one?

A work permit in the United States refers to an Employment Authorization Document (EAD), issued by U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) using Form I-765. This document proves you have legal permission to work for any employer in the U.S. for a specific period.

You need a work permit if you're not a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident (green card holder) but want to work legally. Common situations include:

• F-1 students applying for Optional Practical Training (OPT)
• Asylum seekers who filed applications and meet the waiting period requirements
• H-4, L-2, or E-2 spouses of certain visa holders
• People with adjustment of status applications pending (waiting for green cards)
• Temporary Protected Status (TPS) recipients
• Refugees and individuals granted withholding of removal

An EAD card provides work authorization, while a U.S. visa provides entry permission. Many people need both, but they serve different purposes and involve separate application processes.

The work permit shows your name, photo, fingerprint, and work authorization dates. Employers use it to verify your eligibility on Form I-9 during the hiring process, and you can use it to apply for a Social Security number.

How long does it take to get a work permit?

Average processing time and factors influencing it

USCIS typically takes three to seven months to process Form I-765 applications. The exact timeline depends on your eligibility category, the service center handling your case, and whether you qualify for premium processing.

Application type: First-time applications generally take longer than renewals because USCIS must verify your initial eligibility and conduct background checks. Replacement cards for lost or stolen EADs typically process faster.

Work authorization category: Different categories have different processing priorities. Asylum-based applications often face longer delays due to additional security screening, while certain student categories may qualify for premium processing.

Service center workload: Your application goes to one of several USCIS service centers based on your location. Some centers process applications faster than others due to staffing levels and caseload distribution.

Background checks: USCIS conducts background and security checks for all EAD applicants. More complex background situations can extend processing time.

Application completeness: Missing documents, incorrect forms, or unclear evidence triggers Requests for Evidence (RFE), adding several months to your timeline.

Processing times by eligibility category

Work permit for asylum seekers

If you have a pending asylum application, you can apply for a work permit 150 days after filing Form I‑589. USCIS cannot issue the EAD until at least 180 days have passed.
Typical timeline:

• Around one month to receive your receipt notice
• Five to six months for initial EAD approval
• Renewals usually take three to five months

Delays can occur if background checks or identity verification require additional information.

Work permit for high school students

If you are 14 – 17 years old, you may need a state‑issued youth work permit rather than a federal EAD. These permits allow part‑time or seasonal work during school sessions.

Processing is fast:

• At 14: Parent or guardian and school approval required, typically issued within one to three days
• At 15: Same process and timeline
• At 16: Often same‑day approval with fewer restrictions

These permits are handled by your school district or state labor department, not USCIS.

Youth work permits are handled at the state level rather than by USCIS. For example, Virginia’s Department of Labor and Industry issues certificates within one to two days, while Maryland’s Department of Labor usually processes them within 24–48 hours.

Work permit processing timeline for adults

For adults, EAD processing is federal and does not vary by state. Professionals from Canada or Mexico may also qualify under the TN visa category while awaiting work permit authorization.

After you submit your application, USCIS typically sends a receipt notice within two to three weeks. This receipt includes your case number for tracking purposes and confirms they received your filing fee (if applicable).

Most applicants receive their EAD card within 90 to 180 days after the receipt notice, though some categories consistently take longer. 

Premium processing and expedited requests

Premium processing is an optional USCIS service that guarantees a decision within 15 calendar days for an additional fee. It’s designed for applicants who meet specific eligibility rules and want faster adjudication.

As of late 2025, only certain Form I‑765 (Application for Employment Authorization) categories, primarily F‑1 students applying for Optional Practical Training (OPT) and STEM OPT extensions, qualify. Most other EAD categories (such as asylum, adjustment of status, or TPS) cannot yet use premium processing.

Current fees:

• F‑1 OPT or STEM OPT: $1,685
• Paid using Form I‑907 (Request for Premium Processing Service), filed either with or after the I‑765.

USCIS guarantees action within 15 calendar days once both forms and fees are received. If the agency misses that timeframe, it refunds the premium fee but continues expedited processing. You can check the most current premium processing categories and fees before filing.

Speeding up your work permit approval

If you don’t qualify for premium processing, you may still request expedited processing under limited circumstances. USCIS decides these requests case-by-case according to its expedite criteria.

You may be eligible if you can prove:

• Severe financial loss to a person or company
• Urgent humanitarian reasons
• Nonprofit work promoting U.S. national interests
• USCIS error or administrative delay

Submit your expedite request through your USCIS online account or by contacting the service center listed on your receipt notice. Include evidence supporting your claim, such as employer letters, financial records, or documentation of urgent circumstances.

Certain F‑1 student categories (OPT and STEM OPT) may alternatively use premium processing for a 15‑day decision after paying the additional fee. 

Step-by-step: How to apply for a work permit

Step 1: Confirm your eligibility

Review the USCIS eligibility categories to determine your specific work authorization category. Each category has a corresponding code (like (c)(9) for adjustment of status or (a)(5) for asylum applicants) that you'll need for your application.

Verify you meet all requirements for your category, including waiting periods, application deadlines, or dependency on other immigration processes.

Step 2: Complete Form I-765

Download the current Form I-765 from the USCIS website and complete all required sections. Include your correct eligibility category code and ensure all information matches your supporting documents.

Critical details to verify:

• Full legal name as it appears on your passport
• Current immigration status and I-94 information
• Correct mailing address for card delivery
• Previous work authorization history (if applicable)

Step 3: Gather required documents

Standard documents include:

• Copy of your passport biographical page
• Copy of your birth certificate (used to verify identity and date of birth if other documents are unavailable or USCIS requests additional proof)
• Current I-94 arrival/departure record
• Previous EAD cards (if you've had work authorization before)
• Documents proving your eligibility category (I-20 for students, asylum receipt notice for asylum applicants, etc.)

Additional documents by category:

• Students: I-20 with OPT recommendation, proof of degree completion
• Asylum applicants: Copy of asylum filing receipt, updated address information
• Adjustment applicants: Copy of I-485 receipt notice, marriage certificate (if applicable)

Step 4: Pay the filing fee

The current filing fee for Form I-765 is $410, though certain categories qualify for fee exemptions. Asylum applicants, refugees, and some TPS applicants don't pay fees.

Submit payment through check, money order, or credit card (if filing online). Include your receipt with your application package.

Step 5: Submit your application

You can file online through the USCIS website or mail paper applications to the address specified in the Form I-765 instructions. Online filing often provides faster processing and easier case tracking.

Mailing address varies by category and state, so check the current instructions carefully. Using incorrect addresses can delay processing by several weeks.

Step 6: Attend the scheduled biometrics appointment

USCIS schedules biometrics appointments for most I-765 applicants within four to eight weeks after receiving your application. You'll receive an appointment notice with the date, time, and location.

During the appointment, USCIS collects your fingerprints, photograph, and signature. Bring your appointment notice and a government-issued photo ID. The appointment typically takes 30 minutes.

Step 7: Track your case and receive your decision

Use your receipt number to check case status on the USCIS website. Common status updates include:

• "Case was received"
• "Biometrics appointment scheduled"
• "Case is being actively reviewed"
• "Card is being produced"

Once approved, USCIS mails your EAD card to your address on file. The card includes your photo, work authorization dates, and category information. Keep the original card safe and make copies for your records.

How to check your case status

You can monitor your work permit application using your receipt number on the USCIS case tracker.
Status updates include:

• Case received: USCIS has accepted your application
• Biometrics scheduled: You will receive an appointment notice
• Actively reviewed: An officer is processing your case
• Card being produced: Your EAD has been approved and is being printed

If your case exceeds the posted processing times, you can submit an outside normal processing time inquiry through your USCIS account.

What to do if your work permit is delayed

If your case is pending beyond the average timeframe:

1. Check your USCIS account for updates or RFEs
2. Submit an online inquiry if your case is outside normal processing
3. Contact USCIS through the Contact Center page for assistance
4. Consult an immigration attorney if you suspect an error or need to escalate
5. Request expedited processing if you meet criteria such as severe financial loss, humanitarian need, or U.S. government interest

You cannot begin employment until your EAD card is approved and in hand.

Renewal and replacement timelines

Your Employment Authorization Document (EAD) is valid only for a specific period, typically one to two years depending on your eligibility category. To keep your work authorization uninterrupted, you must plan ahead for renewals and act quickly if your card is lost or damaged. USCIS treats renewals and replacements differently, with distinct timing and filing requirements.

Renewals: File your renewal application up to 180 days before your current EAD expires. Under current Department of Homeland Security (DHS) policy, many timely filed renewals qualify for an automatic 540‑day extension of work authorization while the new card is being processed. Always refer to the official automatic extension policy for details on which categories qualify.

Replacements: If your EAD is lost, stolen, or damaged, file a replacement request as soon as possible using Form I‑765 (Application for Employment Authorization). Replacement cards are typically issued within one to two months, depending on service center workload.

Address changes: To avoid mailing delays or lost cards, promptly update USCIS with your new address using Form AR‑11 (Alien’s Change of Address Card). You can submit the update online through your USCIS account or by mail.

Key considerations and timing concerns

Work permit processing typically takes three to seven months for federal EAD applications, while state minor work permits are processed within one to three days. Planning ahead is crucial because you cannot work legally until you receive your approved EAD card.

Critical timing reminders:

• Apply for renewals 180 days before expiration
• Check processing times regularly using the USCIS tool
• Maintain a valid immigration status throughout the process
• Keep copies of all documents and correspondence

What you can control:

• Submit complete, accurate applications
• Include all required supporting documents
• Pay correct fees and use current forms
• Update your address promptly if you move
• Respond quickly to any USCIS requests

The process can feel overwhelming, especially when employment opportunities depend on work authorization timing. Understanding realistic timelines, preparing thorough applications, and tracking your case actively help reduce uncertainty and potential delays.

How Lighthouse helps with work authorization

The work authorization process involves multiple forms, strict deadlines, and category-specific requirements. Lighthouse provides comprehensive assistance beyond just form preparation.

Our platform identifies the correct eligibility category for your Form I-765, ensuring you apply under the appropriate classification. We guide document preparation to meet USCIS standards, reducing the risk of RFEs that delay processing. Our case tracking system monitors your application status, alerts you to important deadlines, and reminds you when renewal time approaches.

For employers, we coordinate work permit applications across your international team, maintaining compliance records and tracking expiration dates. This proactive approach prevents work authorization lapses that disrupt operations. We handle the administrative burden while you focus on building your business.

Get started with Lighthouse.

FAQs

How long does it take to get a work permit approval?

Most applicants receive their Employment Authorization Document (EAD) within three to seven months of filing Form I‑765 (Application for Employment Authorization). The exact timing varies by eligibility category, service center workload, and whether USCIS issues a Request for Evidence (RFE). You can check the most accurate estimate for your category using the official USCIS processing time tool. Once you have your receipt number, you can also track real‑time progress through your USCIS online account.

How fast can I get a U.S. work permit?

Only certain applicants can use premium processing, which guarantees a USCIS decision within 15 calendar days after payment of the additional fee using Form I‑907 (Request for Premium Processing Service). All other categories follow standard processing timelines, typically three to seven months, though early filing and complete documentation can help avoid delays.

How long does it take to get a work permit for asylum applicants?

Asylum applicants can apply for work authorization 150 days after submitting Form I‑589 (Application for Asylum and Withholding of Removal). USCIS cannot issue the EAD until at least 180 days have passed, known as the “asylum clock.” Most initial approvals take five to six months after eligibility. Renewal applications for asylum‑based EADs typically take three to five months, assuming there are no pending interviews, background check issues, or address changes.

How long does it take to get a work permit for minors (ages 14–16)?

If you’re a high school student or under 18, your work authorization usually comes from your state’s department of labor or education, not from U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). These are called youth work permits or employment certificates and allow limited, part-time, or seasonal work during the school year or summer break. Processing is often within one to three days after your school and parent, or guardian, approves your application. Some states even issue them electronically on the same day.

Can I check my work permit status or request faster processing online?

Yes. You can check your case status anytime using your receipt number in the USCIS Case Status Tracker. If your Form I‑765 has been pending longer than posted processing times, you may submit an outside normal processing time inquiry through your USCIS account.
Applicants facing emergencies or financial hardship can also request expedited processing if they meet USCIS’s criteria for severe financial loss, urgent humanitarian need, nonprofit national‑interest work, or agency error. Documentation must support any expedite request.

What happens if my work permit expires while my renewal is pending?

If you file a timely renewal for your EAD and qualify under the DHS automatic extension policy, your existing work authorization can continue for up to 540 days beyond the listed expiration date. This extension applies to many categories, including adjustment‑of‑status, TPS, and asylum‑based renewals. You can review the currently eligible categories in the official USCIS automatic EAD extension guidance. Ensure you keep your filing receipt as proof of continued authorization during this period.