Form I-765: Application for Employment Authorization
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Form I-765 is the official application used to request a work permit—also known as an Employment Authorization Document (EAD)—in the United States. This form is essential for eligible non-citizens who wish to work legally while their immigration case is pending or approved.
This guide explains who qualifies for employment authorization, which documents are required, and how Translations Certified helps ensure all foreign-language documents meet USCIS translation standards.
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What Is Form I-765 and Who Needs It?
Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization, is used to apply for a temporary work permit in the U.S. If approved, you will receive an EAD card, which allows you to work legally while your immigration case is pending or under a specific status.
This form is commonly used by individuals in the following categories:
- Asylum Applicants (pending or approved cases)
- DACA Recipients (Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals)
- Adjustment of Status Applicants (Green Card applicants)
- TPS Beneficiaries (Temporary Protected Status)
- F-1 Students (applying for Optional Practical Training [OPT] or CPT)
- Certain Employment Visa Holders (who require separate authorization)
Filing Form I-765 is optional for many—but critical for those who need legal work authorization while awaiting immigration decisions.
Eligibility Requirements for Form I-765
To file Form I-765, you must demonstrate that you fall into one of the eligible USCIS categories. You’ll also need to provide supporting evidence such as:
Proof of Identity
Valid passport, birth certificate, or national ID
Proof of Immigration Status
I-94 arrival/departure record, visa page, or USCIS approval notice
Proof of Eligibility
Examples include:
- Asylum application receipt
- DACA approval notice
- Pending Form I-485 confirmation
- F-1 student SEVIS records for OPT/CPT
Always refer to the current I-765 instructions and eligibility category codes listed by USCIS when applying.
Documents Required for Form I-765
When submitting Form I-765, prepare the following:
Completed Form I-765
Double-check all information and select the correct eligibility category
Two Passport-Style Photos
Must meet USCIS specifications (2×2 inches, recent, plain background)
Supporting Documentation
Proof of current immigration status and authorization to work
Filing Fee or Fee Waiver Request
Fees vary depending on category. Some applicants (e.g., DACA or asylum seekers) may qualify for a fee waiver using Form I-912.
Important: All documents in a foreign language must include a certified English translation to meet USCIS requirements.
Do I Need Certified Translations for Form I-765?
Yes. USCIS requires that all non-English documents submitted with Form I-765 be accompanied by a certified English translation.
Examples of commonly translated documents include:
- Birth certificates
- Identity documents
- Immigration status records issued in another language
- Educational transcripts or bank records (if required for certain categories)
Translations Certified guarantees that every translation:
- Is accurate and complete
- Includes a signed certification of translator competence
- Meets all USCIS submission and formatting requirements
- Can be notarized when needed
Failing to submit certified translations may result in processing delays or denials.
How Translations Certified Can Help with Your I-765 Application
We make the EAD application process easier by providing:
- Certified Translations for all supporting documents
- Notarized Translations, if required by your immigration attorney or caseworker
- Fast Delivery within 24–48 hours in secure, USCIS-ready PDF format
- Translations in over 100 languages, including Spanish, French, Portuguese, Arabic, and more
- Guaranteed Compliance with USCIS standards
Our experienced translators understand immigration requirements and work with individuals, attorneys, and organizations to prevent avoidable delays.
Get Started with Confidence
Filing Form I-765 is a crucial step toward gaining legal work authorization in the U.S. Let us help you submit accurate, properly translated documents that support your application from day one.
Request a free quote today and move forward with confidence—knowing your documents meet every requirement.
References:
The information provided here is for general informational purposes only and is not intended to be legal advice. While we strive to ensure that the information is accurate and current, it is not a substitute for professional legal counsel. Please consult with a qualified attorney for advice regarding your specific situation or legal questions.