Processing times
What is the I-765 (EAD) processing time right now?
Updated · Not legal advice
USCIS publishes I-765 processing times per category and office on its official tool, so choose Form I-765, your category (for example c09 pending adjustment, c08 asylum applicant, c03 OPT) and your office. Because the figure changes regularly and differs a lot by category, check the tool instead of relying on a number from a forum.
| Category code | Who |
|---|---|
| (c)(9) | Pending adjustment of status (I-485) |
| (c)(8) | Pending asylum application |
| (c)(3)(B) / (C) | F-1 students: post-completion OPT / STEM OPT extension |
| (c)(26) | Certain H-4 spouses of H-1B workers |
| (c)(33) | DACA recipients |
Card production statuses
After approval you typically see Card Is Being Produced, then Card Was Mailed To Me, then a USPS pickup status with a tracking number. Each is a status change you can get alerted on.
Automatic extensions
Rules on automatic extension of expiring work permits for renewal applicants have changed several times. Check the current rules on the USCIS I-765 page before relying on one.
Quick answers
- STEM OPT extension status still says received after 2 months; is that normal?
- Compare with the current processing time for the (c)(3)(C) category. If you are within it, no change is normal.
- Can I start working when OPT status says approved but no card yet?
- Generally you need the physical EAD in hand and a start date that has arrived. Check with your school's designated school official.
- H-4 EAD processing time right now?
- Select Form I-765, category (c)(26), in the USCIS processing times tool.
What to do next
Get an email (or SMS on Pro) the moment your card is produced.
Track my I-765Sources
Checked: November 12, 2026