Buy Work Permit: Is It Possible?

Buying a work permit is illegal. Learn about legitimate options to obtain work authorization in the U.S.

First published: Oct 12, 2026
3 min read

individual completing work permit application form — Understanding the steps to legally obtain a work permit.

Navigate What You Get with a Legal Work Permit · How to Get a Work Permit in the U.S.: 5 Steps to Legal Employment · Risks, Limitations, and Guarantees · Good to know · Sources and further reading

What You Get with a Legal Work Permit

Employment Authorization Document (EAD)

A physical card (Form I-766) issued by USCIS proving your legal right to work in the U.S., often including a photo and fingerprint [4].

Proof of Eligibility

Confirmation that you meet one of the USCIS-approved categories, such as pending adjustment of status or asylum seeker status [2].

Temporary Work Authorization

Permission to work in the U.S. for a limited time, without granting immigration status [5].

USCIS Processing and Delivery

The EAD card is mailed via USPS Priority Mail within 2 weeks of approval [6].

Legal Compliance

Avoids federal crimes associated with fraudulent documents, which carry fines or imprisonment.

How to Get a Work Permit in the U.S.: 5 Steps to Legal Employment

Check if you’re eligible
A work permit (EAD) is only for non-citizens in specific categories. Eligible groups include asylum seekers, refugees, or those with a pending I-485 adjustment of status application (2). A work permit does not grant immigration status (5).
File Form I-765
Submit Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization, to USCIS. Include supporting documents like Form I-94, passport, or travel documents, plus two passport-style photos meeting biometric standards (1) (2).
Pay the fees
The filing fee for Form I-765 is $410 as of 2024, with an additional $85 biometric services fee for most applicants. Fee waivers may apply for certain categories.
Wait for processing
Processing times vary by category. In FY 2024, median times ranged from 0.6 months for asylum-based applications to 5.5 months for some categories (3). USCIS may issue an RFE or NOID if evidence is missing (7).
Receive and verify your EAD
If approved, USCIS mails the EAD card via USPS Priority Mail within 2 weeks. Verify the card’s details and expiration date before use (6).

Risks, Limitations, and Guarantees

Obtaining a work permit in the U.S. involves several risks and limitations. The application process can be lengthy, with median processing times for Form I-765 ranging from 0.6 to 5.5 months, depending on the eligibility category (3). Delays often arise from missing documents or errors in the application. If the application is denied, there is no appeal process, which means the applicant must start over without recourse (7).

It's crucial to meet the eligibility requirements set by USCIS. Categories include asylum seekers and individuals with pending I-485 applications (2). Failure to demonstrate eligibility can lead to rejection. The work permit (EAD) is temporary and does not grant immigration status, requiring periodic renewal to maintain employment authorization (5).

Engaging in fraudulent activities, such as purchasing fake EADs, is a federal crime with severe penalties, including fines and imprisonment. If an applicant needs to cancel or withdraw their application, they may contact USCIS, but refunds for filing fees are not guaranteed.

Before submitting an application, verify all required documents and ensure completeness. This diligence can significantly reduce risks and enhance the chances of obtaining a valid work permit.

Good to know

How do I get a work permit for the USA?

File Form I-765 with USCIS if your immigration status doesn’t already allow work. Include supporting documents like Form I-94, passport, and two biometric photos (1) (2). Processing takes 0.6–5.5 months depending on your category (3).

What is the difference between EP and WP?

A work permit (EAD) is temporary and only authorizes employment, while a work visa (e.g., H-1B, L-1) grants both entry to the U.S. and work authorization under specific conditions (5).

What are the instructions for filing Form I-765?

Submit Form I-765 to USCIS with required documents: Form I-94, passport, travel documents, and two passport-style photos meeting biometric standards (1) (2). Pay the $410 filing fee plus $85 for biometrics, unless eligible for a waiver.

What documents are required for a work permit?

USCIS requires Form I-94, a valid passport or travel document, and two identical passport-style photos. Additional evidence may be needed to prove eligibility under your category (2).

Why are work permit applications denied?

Denials occur if identity or eligibility isn’t verified, the application is abandoned, or errors like missing evidence or unsigned forms are present (7). No appeal process exists, but you can file a motion to reopen or reconsider.

How long does it take to get a work permit?

Processing times vary by category. In FY 2024, asylum-based applications took 0.6 months, while others ranged up to 5.5 months (3). Approved EAD cards are mailed within 2 weeks (6).