Work Permit Fee Calculator

Calculate US work permit and employment authorization fees by type.

Processing Type

Total Cost

$495.00

Processing Time

3-5 months

I-765 Fee Breakdown

Filing Fee$410.00
Biometrics$85.00
Total$495.00

Use the Work Permit Fee Calculator above to calculate your results. Enter your values and see instant results — all calculations run in your browser.

Disclaimer: This calculator is for informational purposes only and does not constitute tax, financial, or legal advice. Results are estimates based on the information you provide and current rates. Always consult a qualified tax professional or financial advisor for advice specific to your situation.

How It Works

Our US Work Permit Fee Calculator helps you accurately determine the filing fees for your Employment Authorization Document (EAD) application by type. Understanding these costs upfront is crucial for budgeting and avoiding delays in your immigration process, especially as fee structures are subject to change. For 2026, we anticipate some adjustments to USCIS fees, making this calculator an essential tool for applicants.

This calculator uses a conditional logic algorithm based on the applicant's eligibility category and whether they are filing Form I-765 concurrently or as a standalone application. We cross-reference the selected EAD category with the most current USCIS fee schedule for 2026. The formula primarily checks for standard application fees, biometric service fees (if applicable), and any specific fee waivers or exemptions associated with the chosen category.

Always double-check the USCIS website for the absolute latest fee schedule, as fees can be updated without extensive prior notice. A common mistake is assuming all EAD categories have the same fee; some categories, like certain asylum-based applications, may have fee exemptions. Ensure you select the correct eligibility category to prevent underpayment or overpayment of fees, which can lead to application rejection or delays.

Example: Asylum Seeker Filing Initial EAD

  1. 1 You are an asylum applicant (pending asylum, category (c)(8)) filing your initial Form I-765.
  2. 2 The calculator identifies category (c)(8) as being exempt from the standard Form I-765 filing fee and biometric services fee.
  3. 3 Your total estimated EAD application fee for 2026 is $0.00.
  4. 4 Asylum applicants are generally exempt from EAD filing fees, reflecting a humanitarian consideration in US immigration policy. This exemption applies to both the initial and renewal applications for this specific category.

Source: USCIS · Last updated: April 2026

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does a US work permit (EAD) cost?
The Form I-765 Employment Authorization Document filing fee is $410 as of 2026. Some categories, such as asylum applicants and DACA recipients, may have different fees or fee waivers available.
How long does it take to get a work permit?
USCIS processing times for the EAD are typically 3-7 months, though times vary by category and service center. Premium processing is available for some EAD categories at an additional fee for 30-day processing.
Can I work while my work permit application is pending?
Generally no, unless you have another valid work authorization. However, if your EAD renewal application is pending and your current EAD has expired, you may receive an automatic extension of up to 540 days for certain eligibility categories.