¿How long does the work permit (EAD) last when requested with asylum?

2 days ago
4 min read

If you are in the United States and applied for asylum, it is likely that you are waiting for your work permit, also known as the EAD (Employment Authorization Document), and want to know how long it lasts. In this article, we explain clearly and simply how long that permit lasts, how to renew it, and what you should keep in mind to avoid losing your right to work legally.

¿What is the work permit or EAD?

The EAD (which stands for Employment Authorization Document) is an official document from the United States government that allows you to work legally in the country while your asylum case is pending or in process.

¿How long is the work permit valid for?

When the work permit is requested along with asylum, the United States government (USCIS) normally approves the EAD for a period of 2 years.

Standard duration: 2 years.
It may start counting from the approval date, not from the application date.
The permit is not a residence nor a visa, but it allows you to work legally.

This permit is valid while your asylum case is pending or in process. If you are granted asylum, your situation will change and you will be able to apply for other documents.

¿Can the work permit be renewed?

Yes. You can renew your work permit without leaving the country and without starting the process from scratch, as long as your asylum case is still pending.

Important:

You must renew it before your current permit expires.
If you do not do it on time, you may be left without legal authorization to work.
This may cause you to lose your job or important benefits.

You can request the renewal up to 180 days (6 months) before your current permit expires. You do not have to wait until the last moment. The earlier, the better.

¿Why?

Because the renewal may take several months.
So that you are not left without a permit and do not lose your job.
To avoid problems with your health insurance, benefits, or employer.

If your permit expires without being renewed on time, you will not be able to continue working legally until you receive the new one.

¿Do I need to pay to renew the EAD?

It depends. Some people may qualify for a fee waiver, especially if they have low income. In other cases, the process does have a cost that must be paid when submitting Form I-765.

To renew the EAD, you must use Form I-765, available on the official USCIS website: uscis.gov/i-765

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

¿What happens if my work permit expires?

If you do not renew it on time, you will not be able to work legally, which can affect your employment and immigration status.

¿Can my renewal be denied?

Yes, if your asylum case has been closed, denied without appeal, or if there are errors in your application. That’s why it is crucial to do everything carefully or with legal help.

¿How many times can I renew the EAD?

You can renew it as many times as necessary, as long as your asylum case remains active.

¿Can I travel with the EAD?

No. The EAD only allows you to work, not to travel outside the country. To travel, you need a special permit called Advance Parole.

¿Does the EAD give me legal status?

No. The EAD allows you to work, but it does not grant permanent immigration status. Your status remains “asylum pending” until the case is resolved.

¿Can I work while I wait for the renewal?

Yes, you can continue working for up to 540 days if you submit the renewal before your current permit expires, thanks to an automatic extension from the government.

¿Do you need a lawyer to help you get your papers in the United States?

At Inmigración Ok Abogados, we provide the help you need. We are a law firm with extensive experience in advising people like you to establish themselves legally in the country.

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Let us be part of your journey toward a better and safer life in the United States. Our team is ready to answer all your questions and guide you through every step of the process. And the best part is that the initial review of your case is completely free!

Don't wait any longer—take the first step toward your future in the United States. Message us now on WhatsApp at +1 (908) 585-4523! Our team looks forward to learning about your case and providing you with the guidance you deserve. We will review your case at no cost.