When going through the U.S. immigration system, you may hear the terms Employment Authorization Document (EAD) and Green Card used interchangeably. However, while both allow you to work in the United States, they are very different documents. Each has its purpose, eligibility requirements, and benefits.
In this blog, we discuss the differences between an EAD and a Green Card so you can understand which one applies to your situation.
What is an EAD (Employment Authorization Document)?
An Employment Authorization Document (Form I-766) is a card issued by the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). The document proves you are legally allowed to work in the United States for a specific period.
You may need an EAD in the following instances:
- You are authorized to work based on your immigration status (e.g., asylees, refugees, or U visa holders) and need proof of that authorization.
- You have a pending immigration application, such as:
-
- Form I-485 – Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status
- Form I-589 – Application for Asylum and Withholding of Removal
- You are in a non-immigrant status (such as F-1 or M-1 students) that allows you to be in the U.S. but requires permission before you can work.
How to Apply for an EAD
File Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization, along with the required fee or a fee waiver request.
How to Renew an EAD
If your EAD is expiring and you are still eligible to work, you must file a new Form I-765 to renew it. USCIS recommends applying for renewal within 180 days of your EAD’s expiration to avoid gaps in work authorization.
What is a Green Card (Permanent Resident Card)?
A Green Card, officially known as Form I-551, Permanent Resident Card, allows you to live and work in the United States permanently. It is proof that you are a lawful permanent resident.
Most immigrants obtain a Green Card through sponsorship, either by:
- A family member who is a U.S. citizen or permanent resident.
- A U.S. employer offering permanent employment.
How to Apply for a Green Card
Applying for a Green Card depends on your location:
- Inside the U.S.: You can apply through adjustment of status with USCIS by filing Form I-485 once your immigrant petition is approved and a visa is available.
- Outside the U.S.: You’ll go through consular processing with the U.S. Department of State.
The general steps to apply for a Green Card include:
- Filing (or having someone file) an immigrant petition on your behalf.
- Waiting for USCIS approval and visa availability.
- Submitting your Green Card application.
- Attending a biometrics appointment.
- Completing an interview.
- Receiving a decision.
Differences Between Green Card and EAD
An EAD and a Green Card can serve as proof of your right to work in the U.S. However, they differ in the following ways:
| EAD (Work Permit) | Green Card (Permanent Resident Card) | |
|---|---|---|
| Purpose | Temporary proof of work authorization | Permanent proof of residency and work authorization |
| Duration | Valid for 1–2 years | Valid for 10 years |
| Path to Citizenship | Does not lead to U.S. citizenship | Can lead to citizenship after meeting eligibility |
| Eligibility | Specific visa holders, pending applicants, asylum seekers, etc. | Family-based, employment-based, refugee/asylee adjustment, diversity lottery, etc. |
| Form Used | Form I-765 | Form I-485 or DS-260 for consular processing |
| Right to Live in the U.S. | EAD is only a work authorization | Gives permanent right to live and work in the U.S. |
Do You Need Both an EAD and a Green Card?
If you are a lawful permanent resident, you do not need an EAD. Your Green Card serves as proof of your right to work.
However, if you are in the process of applying for a Green Card and your application is pending, you may apply for an EAD so you can work legally while you wait.
Tracking the Delivery of Your EAD or Green Card
USCIS offers tools to track your card once it’s mailed:
- Case Status Online: Sign up for automatic case updates and get your USPS tracking number.
- USPS Informed Delivery: Get daily images of mail being sent to you and track packages, set alerts, and leave delivery instructions.
Get Legal Help at ImmigrationQuestion.com
If you need legal assistance in choosing between an Employment Authorization Card vs Green Card, ImmigrationQuestion’s network of attorneys can help you make the right decision.
ImmigrationQuestion.com serves as a meeting ground between licensed immigration attorneys and people with immigration questions.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the difference between EAD and Green Card?
An EAD (Employment Authorization Document) is a temporary work permit that allows certain non-citizens to work in the U.S. for a specific period. A Green Card (Permanent Resident Card) grants you permanent residency, allowing you to live and work in the U.S. indefinitely.
2. Can you work with just an EAD?
An EAD card proves you are legally authorized to work in the United States. It is enough to work; however, it does not give you the right to stay in the U.S. indefinitely.
3. Do Green Card holders need an EAD?
If you have a Green Card, you do not need an EAD. Your Green Card itself serves as proof of your authorization to work in the U.S.
4. Which is better: Green Card vs Work Permit?
A Green Card is generally considered better because it offers permanent residency and more rights. However, if you are waiting for your Green Card approval, an EAD (work permit) allows you to work legally in the meantime.
5. Can I have both an EAD and a Green Card?
You may have both temporarily if your EAD was issued while your Green Card application was pending. Once your Green Card is approved, you no longer need the EAD.
6. How long does it take to get an EAD vs Green Card?
EADs are usually processed faster. You may get your EAD within a few months, depending on USCIS workload. Green Card processing can take several months to years, depending on your eligibility category and visa availability.
7. Can an EAD lead to a Green Card?
An EAD does not lead directly to a Green Card. However, many people with pending Green Card applications apply for an EAD to work while waiting for approval.
