This article provides a step-by-step guide on how to complete Form I-765.
What is Form I-765?
Form I-765, which is "Application for Employment Authorization," is used for foreign nationals in the U.S. to apply for work authorization. This form applies to individuals holding various non-immigrant visas, as well as those awaiting the outcome of their green card applications. If you want to obtain an OPT EAD card, you must apply by completing Form I-765.
For the STEM OPT Extension, you will also need to fill out Form I-983.
How to Fill out Form I-765?
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Pages 5-6
If you completed the form independently, you do not need to fill these two pages out.
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If you have no additional information to provide, you do not need to fill this page out.
Reminders (For Those Mailing Their Applications):
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To make it easier for the official to review your documents, it is best to fill out the forms on a computer, print them, and then sign with a black pen (using black ink is required; otherwise, your application might be rejected).
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If you do not already have a SSN, you can request it along with your EAD card at no extra cost.
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Form I-765 has 7 pages. Even if some pages are left blank, you still need to submit all 7 pages.
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Be sure to print single-sided pages. Double-sided printing could cause important information to be missed, resulting in a rejection.
How Much is the Application Fee?
Starting April 1, 2024, USCIS updated the fees for submitting Form I-765. The current fee for online applications is $470, while mail-in applications cost $520. If this is your first time applying, you may need to undergo biometrics (fingerprinting), which requires an additional $85 fee.