Time to Get a Work Permit: Real Processing Times in the U.S. in 2025

Hello, I’m Viktor A. De Maio, immigration attorney and founder of De Maio Law, PLLC. If you’re waiting for work authorization, understanding the time to get a work permit in the U.S. in 2025 is essential for your peace of mind and stability.

This year brings new challenges and policy changes that impact the processing times of Form I-765 (EAD). In this guide, I’ll explain how long it really takes, how automatic extensions work, and what you can do to avoid unnecessary delays. ✅

AI generated for illustrative purpose

What Does “Time to Get a Work Permit” Mean in 2025?

The time to get a work permit refers to the period from when you submit your EAD application until you receive the physical card. In 2025, this timeframe depends on your case type (asylum, TPS, adjustment of status) and USCIS workload, which continues to experience significant backlogs.

How Long Does USCIS Take to Process a Work Permit in the U.S.?

According to USCIS, the average time to approve an EAD is 2 to 4 months. After approval:✔ Card production takes about 2 weeks.✔ USPS mail delivery can take up to 30 days before you should contact USCIS.

This means that from application to delivery, you can expect 90 to 120 days, although some cases are faster and others slower due to additional security checks.

New Rules Impacting the Time to Get a Work Permit in 2025

In July 2025, USCIS confirmed an automatic 540-day extension for certain applicants (TPS, asylum, visa spouses), preventing them from losing work authorization while waiting for renewal.

However, there are proposals under the Trump administration to restrict work permits for asylum seekers, removing the ability to work while the case is pending. This could increase the time to get a work permit to over a year, as it would depend on the asylum case decision.

How Delays Affect the Time to Get a Work Permit and Other Immigration Processes

USCIS backlogs not only affect work permits. For example, employment-based green cards now take an average of 3.4 years, even with premium processing options for other forms. This shows that the immigration system remains under pressure in 2025, making it critical to plan your application early.

Tips to Reduce the Time to Get a Work Permit

✅ Submit a complete application: errors in Form I-765 can cause delays.

✅ Keep documentation up to date: eligibility evidence, valid IDs, and correct payments.

✅ Monitor your case: use USCIS’s online case tracking tool.

✅ Work with an experienced attorney: at De Maio Law, PLLC, we help you avoid mistakes that could delay your work permit.

FAQs (7 Frequently Asked Questions)

1. What is the average time to get a work permit in 2025?

The general timeframe is 2 to 4 months from filing Form I-765 to receiving your EAD. However, it can vary based on USCIS workload and your case type.

2. What is the 540-day automatic extension?

It’s a policy that allows you to keep working legally for up to 540 days if you applied for renewal while your case is pending.

3. What happens if my case is asylum-based?

Currently, you can apply for a work permit 150 days after filing for asylum and receive it around 180 days, but proposals may change this rule, causing further delays.

4. Can I expedite the work permit process?

At this time, premium processing is not available for most work permits, except for very limited cases under OPT.

5. What should I do if my EAD doesn’t arrive within the estimated time?

Check your case online, submit an e-Request through USCIS, and if there’s no response, contact an attorney or your congressional representative.

6. What documents should I submit to avoid rejection?

A complete Form I-765, recent photos, proof of eligibility (asylum, TPS, adjustment of status), a copy of your I-94, and the correct filing fee.

7. What are the risks of working without a valid permit?

Working without authorization can affect your immigration case and future applications, including permanent residency.

Conclusion

At De Maio Law, PLLC, we know that the time to get a work permit can make the difference between moving forward and being stuck in uncertainty. With the right guidance, you can avoid delays and keep your legal status secure.

Contact us:

📧 Email: info@demaiolaw.com

📞 Phone: (786) 232-9120

📍 Address: 2121 Ponce de Leon Blvd, Coral Gables, FL 33134

Schedule your consultation today and secure your work future in the U.S.!✨

Your work permit is your bridge to new opportunities. Let’s take the first step together!