Legal Definitions - Employment Authorization Document (EAD)

An Employment Authorization Document (EAD), also known as a work permit, is a document issued by the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) that allows certain non-citizens to work legally in the United States for a specific period of time. People who need an EAD include asylum seekers, foreign students, and refugees.

To obtain an EAD, a person must submit a Form I-765 application provided by the USCIS.

• An asylum seeker who has filed an application for asylum with the USCIS may apply for an EAD while their application is pending.
• A foreign student who has completed their studies in the United States and has been offered a job by a U.S. employer may apply for an EAD to work in the U.S. after graduation.
• A refugee who has been granted asylum in the United States may apply for an EAD to work legally in the U.S.

These examples illustrate how different types of non-citizens may need an EAD to work legally in the United States. Without an EAD, they would not be authorized to work and could face legal consequences.