The EAD is an official document that allows certain noncitizens to work lawfully in the U.S. It’s typically required for individuals who don’t have automatic work authorization through their immigration status. If you’re applying for a green card, seeking asylum, or are in a temporary protected status category, you’ll likely need to apply for an EAD using Form I-765.

An Employment Authorization Document (EAD) is a physical card that confirms your legal right to work in the U.S. Not everyone needs one—green card holders and many employment-based visa holders (like H-1B or L-1) already have work authorization. But if you're in a status like pending asylum, F-1 OPT, or applying for a green card, an EAD is required for employment.

The EAD, often called a work permit, allows certain non-U.S. citizens to work lawfully in the U.S. If you are applying for a green card, have been granted asylum or refugee status, or are part of programs like DACA or TPS, you likely need to apply for this document to be employed legally.