Guide to Understanding USCIS EAD Category Codes

Employment Authorization Document (EAD) category codes are short letter-number codes that tell U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) the reason you qualify for a work permit.

If you’re applying for a work permit (Form I-765), you’ll need to choose the correct code, such as C09, C08, or A05, that matches your situation. Picking the right code is crucial – using the wrong one can lead to delays, rejections, or even a denial of your application.

This guide will explain what these codes mean, how to find the right one, provide a list of major EAD eligibility categories, and offer tips to avoid common mistakes.

What Are EAD Category Codes?

EAD category codes are short letter-and-number combinations printed on your Employment Authorization Document (EAD) and entered on Form I-765. These codes explain why you are legally allowed to work in the United States and identify the exact immigration category under which USCIS issued your work permit.

Each code usually starts with A or C, followed by numbers and sometimes an extra letter for subcategories. Every code directly corresponds to a specific regulation under 8 CFR §274a.12, which lists who qualifies for employment authorization. For example, A05 refers to individuals granted asylum, while C08 applies to asylum applicants with pending cases. In practical terms, the code acts as a legal reference that tells USCIS the basis of your employment eligibility.

The distinction between A and C categories is especially important. A-category codes indicate that employment is authorized because of your immigration status itself. This typically applies to refugees, asylees, and certain protected individuals who are allowed to work as a matter of law. C-category codes, on the other hand, apply to people whose status does not automatically allow employment. These individuals must request work authorization separately, such as adjustment of status applicants or certain students.

USCIS relies on the category code you select on Form I-765 to evaluate your eligibility correctly. Using the wrong code can delay your application or lead to a denial, which is why understanding what your EAD category code represents is critical before filing.

Why Do EAD Category Codes Matter?

EAD category codes may look like a small detail, but they play a major role in your work permit application. USCIS issues an EAD only if your eligibility clearly matches one of its approved categories. If you select the wrong code, officers may not understand your legal basis to work. This can lead to a Request for Evidence (RFE) or even a denial if the category does not apply to you.

Correct codes also help reduce delays. USCIS processes millions of EAD applications every year, and even small mistakes can slow things down. In fiscal year 2023 alone, USCIS handled more than 10.9 million EAD applications, a sharp increase compared to the previous year. With such volume, errors like an incorrect category code often push cases to the back of the line.

Backlogs make accuracy even more important. By mid-2025, over 165,000 EAD renewal applications had been pending for more than six months. Some categories have faced longer waits than others. For example, a surge in asylum-based EADs caused processing times to rise sharply, with the longest waits for initial asylum EADs reaching 16 months in 2023. While the correct code will not speed up processing, it helps you avoid avoidable delays caused by filing mistakes.

Finally, EAD category codes determine what documents and conditions apply to your case. Each code has its own eligibility rules. A pending asylum applicant must meet waiting-period requirements, while an adjustment of status applicant must show a pending green card application. Understanding your code helps you submit the right proof and meet the correct criteria from the start.

In simple terms, the category code tells USCIS why you qualify to work. If that code is wrong, your application can stall or fail.

Finding the Right Category Code on Form I-765

On Form I-765 (Application for Employment Authorization), you’ll be asked to enter your eligibility category. In the latest form, this is Item Number 27, often formatted as three sets of characters (for example, “(c)(9)” for category C09). To find the correct code:

• Identify your situation: Determine the basis for your work permit. Are you married to a U.S. citizen and have a pending green card? Are you an asylum seeker? A student on OPT? Each situation corresponds to a category.
  
• Use the official list: USCIS provides a list of all eligibility categories in the form instructions and on its website. You can also refer to the comprehensive list in the next section of this guide. Find the description that matches your situation and note the code. For example, if you filed for adjustment of status (a green card) based on marriage or another petition, you likely fall under (c)(9). If you have DACA, your category is (c)(33).
  
• Enter it exactly as required: Write the code with the correct format on the form. For instance, if your category is (c)(9), enter it with the parentheses as “(c)(9)”. Do not drop the parentheses or alter the format. USCIS scan systems expect precise input. Small formatting errors can cause issues – one applicant reported a rejection because they wrote “C9” instead of “C09” on the form. To be safe, follow the exact style USCIS shows in examples, including any letters or numbers. If your category has sub-classifications (like (c)(3)(C)), include all parts.

Always double-check the code before you submit. If you’re unsure, seek guidance from the USCIS instructions or a legal advisor. Using the wrong eligibility code is a common mistake that can cost you weeks or months. Confirming the correct code only takes a minute and can save a lot of trouble.

Major EAD Eligibility Categories (Codes) and Who Qualifies

Below is a list of the major EAD category codes and a plain-language explanation of who qualifies for each. These codes correspond to the eligibility categories in the I-765 instructions. Use this list to find the code that matches your situation.

1. Asylees, Refugees, and Similar Humanitarian Cases

• A03 – Refugee: For people admitted to the U.S. as refugees. Refugees are eligible for an EAD upon admission. (Note: Refugees do not pay an I-765 fee.)
  
• A04 – Paroled as Refugee: For people paroled into the U.S. as refugees or under refugee conditions, often used for certain humanitarian parole programs. This also confers refugee-like work authorization.
  
• A05 – Asylee: Individuals who have been granted asylum in the U.S. received an approval of Form I-589 or asylum status. Asylees are authorized to work incident to status and can get an EAD as proof of that status.
  
• A10 – Withholding of Deportation or Removal: For people who have been granted withholding of removal by an immigration judge or asylum office. This is a form of protection for those who don’t meet the criteria for asylum but cannot be deported due to risk of persecution. They are eligible for an EAD under category A10.
  
• C08 – Asylum Applicant (Pending Asylum): For those who have applied for asylum and whose case is still pending. Asylum applicants can request an EAD while waiting for a decision, usually after their asylum application has been pending for 150 days. This is one of the largest EAD applicant groups – a surge of C08 cases in 2023 contributed to a 50% jump in total EAD filings.

2. Family-Based and Fiancé(e) Categories

• A06 – Fiancé(e) of U.S. Citizen (K-1/K-2 Visa): For K-1 nonimmigrant fiancé(e)s of U.S. citizens, and K-2 children of K-1s. A K-1 visa holder (who entered the U.S. to get married) can apply for an EAD under A06 while their 90-day admission period is valid, even before getting a green card.
  
• A09 – Spouse of U.S. Citizen (K-3/K-4 Visa): For K-3 nonimmigrant spouses of U.S. citizens and K-4 children of K-3. These are spouses/step-children of U.S. citizens who came to the U.S. on K visas to await green card processing. They can obtain EADs while in K status under A09.
  
• A13 – Family Unity Program: For certain beneficiaries of the Family Unity Program, Section 301 of the Immigration Act of 1990. This was designed to allow spouses and children of legalized immigrants (from the 1986 amnesty) to stay and work in the U.S. Family Unity beneficiaries can get an EAD under A13.
  
• A14 – LIFE Act Family Unity: For eligible individuals under the LIFE Act Amendments Family Unity provisions. Similar to A13, but under the Legal Immigrant Family Equity (LIFE) Act of 2000. Spouses/children of certain legalization applicants (late amnesty) qualify.
  
• A15 – V Visa Spouse or Child: For V-1, V-2, V-3 nonimmigrants. V visas are for certain spouses and children of U.S. permanent residents who have been waiting for green cards due to backlog (from the LIFE Act). If you have a V visa, you can get an EAD under A15 while in the U.S.

3. Adjustment of Status Applicants (Green Card Applicants)

• C09 – Adjustment of Status Applicant: For applicants with a pending I-485 Application to Adjust Status, e.g., marriage-based, employment-based, or other green card applications. If you have filed for a green card from within the U.S., you typically qualify for a C09 EAD to let you work while that case is pending. (This is one of the most common categories. In FY 2023, over 1.12 million EAD applications were from pending adjustment applicants.)
  
• C16 – Registry Applicant (Continuous Residence since 1972): For “registry” cases, i.e., people applying for a green card based on having lived in the U.S. since before January 1, 1972. This is an old provision of law. If you qualify and have submitted a Form I-485 under the registry provision, you can get an EAD under C16. (Sometimes called “creation of record”.)

4. Employment-Based Dependents and Spouses

• A17 – Spouse of E-1/E-2 Treaty Trader or Investor: For the husband or wife of an E-1 or E-2 visa holder. E-1 and E-2 are visas for treaty traders/investors and their employees. Their spouses are eligible for an EAD under A17. (Note: This category also covers spouses of E-3 (Australian specialty workers) by regulation.)
  
• C12 – Spouse of E-2 CNMI Investor: For the spouse of an E-2 CNMI Investor. This is a specific category for investors in the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands program (a special E-2 category) and their spouses.
  
• A18 – Spouse of L-1 Intracompany Transferee: For the spouse of an L-1 visa holder. L-1 visas are for intracompany transferees; their spouses (L-2 visa holders) qualify for an EAD under A18. (Update: As of late 2021, L-2 spouses are considered work-authorized incident to status and may not need to file I-765 for a new EAD; however, they can still receive an EAD as proof if desired.)
  
• C26 – Spouse of H-1B Specialty Worker (H-4 EAD): For H-4 spouses of H-1B visa holders, but only if the H-1B worker has an approved I-140 petition or certain extensions. This is commonly called the “H-4 EAD”. Category C26 allows eligible H-4 dependent spouses to work. Around 100,000 H-4 spouse EADs were issued in recent years under this category.

5. Students and Exchange Visitors

• C03A – F-1 Pre-Completion OPT: For F-1 student visa holders engaging in Optional Practical Training (OPT) before completing studies. Typically used by students working part-time while still in school.
  
• C03B – F-1 Post-Completion OPT: For F-1 students doing OPT after graduating (standard 12-month OPT). Most F-1 graduates use this category to work for one year after finishing their degree.
  
• C03C – F-1 STEM OPT Extension: For F-1 students in science, technology, engineering, or math (STEM) fields who are approved for a 24-month OPT extension after the initial OPT. This replaced the old 17-month extension; STEM OPT is now 24 months, and the EAD code remains C03C.
  
• C03(ii) – F-1 International Organization Internship: For F-1 students doing off-campus employment with an international organization. (For example, an internship at the U.N. or World Bank, if eligible. This is relatively uncommon.)
  
• C03(iii) – F-1 Economic Hardship: For F-1 students facing severe economic hardship who have received permission to work off-campus. This is a special relief for students who can prove unforeseen financial difficulties; USCIS may grant off-campus work authorization under this code.
  
• C05 – J-2 Dependent of Exchange Visitor: For J-2 spouses or minor children of J-1 exchange visitors. J-2 dependents (such as the spouse of a J-1 researcher or student) can apply for an EAD under C05, as long as the income is not needed to support the J-1.
  
• C06 – M-1 Student Practical Training: For M-1 vocational students seeking practical training after completing their studies. M-1 students, e.g., in technical or vocational programs, can do a brief practical training period and get an EAD under C06.
  

6. Diplomats and International Organization Employee Dependents

• C01 – Dependent of A-1 or A-2 Foreign Official: For spouses/dependents of A-1 or A-2 visa holders. A-1/A-2 visas are for diplomats or foreign government officials. Eligible family members can apply for an EAD under C01 with Department of State authorization.
  
• C02 – Dependent of E-1 (TECRO) Nonimmigrant: For dependents of TECRO E-1 visa holders. TECRO E-1 is a special category for employees of the Taipei Economic and Cultural Representative Office, Taiwan’s mission, and their families. If you are a qualifying family member of a TECRO official with an E-1 visa, you use C02.
  
• C04 – Dependent of G-1, G-3, or G-4 International Organization Employee: For spouses/dependents of G-1, G-3, or G-4 visa holders. G visas are for staff of international organizations (like the U.N., World Bank). Eligible family members use C04 to get an EAD.
  
• C07 – Dependent of NATO-1 through NATO-6: For spouses/dependents of NATO personnel on NATO-1 to NATO-6 visas. These are individuals working under NATO orders in the U.S. Their dependents can qualify for an EAD with category C07.

7. Deferred Action and DACA

• C14 – Deferred Action (Non-DACA): For individuals who have been granted Deferred Action, an administrative stay of deportation by USCIS or ICE. This is a discretionary category. For example, someone granted deferred action for humanitarian reasons could apply for an EAD under C14 if they show economic necessity. VAWA, U, and T applicants granted deferred action are generally covered under other specific categories without discretionary analysis.
  
• C33 – Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA): For DACA recipients. If you have been approved under the DACA program, you are eligible for a work permit under category C33. DACA EADs are typically issued in 2-year increments, tied to the DACA grant. (As of 2025, initial DACA requests are not being adjudicated, but renewals continue.)
  

Temporary Protected Status and DED

• A11 – Deferred Enforced Departure (DED): For individuals covered under a presidential Deferred Enforced Departure program. DED is country-specific and time-limited. If the President has directed DED for your country, you can receive an EAD under A11 for the duration. For example, DED for certain Liberian, Venezuelan, or Hong Kong residents has been implemented in recent years.
  
• A12 – Temporary Protected Status (TPS) Granted: For people who have been granted TPS by DHS. TPS is offered to nationals of certain countries experiencing crises (war, disaster, etc.). If you have TPS status, you are eligible for an EAD under A12. TPS EADs are typically issued for the validity of each TPS designation period and often get automatic extensions announced via the Federal Register.
  
• C19 – TPS Applicant (Prima Facie Eligible/Pending): For pending TPS applicants who are prima facie eligible and granted an interim work authorization. Sometimes, when you apply for TPS and USCIS has not yet decided the case, they may issue an interim EAD (category C19) if you appear eligible, as a “temporary treatment benefit.” Category C19 is also used in re-registration periods if automatic extensions apply. If you have a TPS application pending, USCIS may invite you to file for C19 EAD or just auto-extend your old A12 EAD; check the latest TPS notices.

Victims of Trafficking, Crime, or Abuse (T, U, VAWA) and Other Special Cases

• A16 – Victim of Human Trafficking (T-1 Visa): For principal T-1 nonimmigrants. T-1 status is given to victims of severe human trafficking. Once you have T-1 status, you are eligible for an EAD under A16, though T-1s are work-authorized incident to status, the EAD is proof of authorization.
  
• C25 – Family of T-1 (T-2 to T-6): For derivative family members of T-1 trafficking victims. Spouses, children, parents, or siblings (depending on age of victim) of a T-1 visa holder can get T-derivative visas (T-2 through T-6) and are eligible for EADs under category C25.
  
• A19 – Victim of Certain Crimes (U-1 Visa): For principal U-1 nonimmigrants. U-1 status is given to victims of certain crimes (e.g., trafficking, domestic violence, etc.) who assist law enforcement. U-1 visa holders can work and get an EAD under A19.
  
• A20 – Family of U-1 (U-2 to U-5): For derivative family members of U-1 visa holders, such as the spouse, child, parent, or sibling (in some cases) of the U-1. They hold U-2, U-3, U-4, or U-5 visas and can get EADs under A20.
  
• C31 – VAWA Self-Petitioner: For individuals with an approved VAWA self-petition (Form I-360) under the Violence Against Women Act (VAWA). Once your I-360 is approved as a self-petitioner, spouse or child of an abusive U.S. citizen or resident, or parent of an abusive U.S. citizen, you can get an EAD under category C31. VAWA self-petitioners may also get deferred action and then could be eligible under C14, but USCIS generally issues C31 EADs upon approval of the petition.
  
• A07 – N-8 or N-9 (Witness or Informant Family): For certain special immigrants such as N-8 or N-9 nonimmigrants. N-8 is for a parent of an international organization employee granted permanent residence, and N-9 is for the child of such an employee. These are rare, but if you hold N-8 or N-9 status, you qualify for an EAD under A07.
  
• C21 – S Visa (Witness or Informant): For S nonimmigrants, often called “Witnesses or Informants” visas. S visas (S-5, S-6) are given to individuals who assist law enforcement, e.g., informants in criminal or terrorism investigations. S visa holders and their family (S-7) can get EADs under category C21. This category is not commonly encountered, as S visas are very limited in number.
  
• C10 – Pending Removal Relief (Cancellation or NACARA): For applicants for Suspension of Deportation, Cancellation of Removal, or certain NACARA relief. This covers people in deportation/removal proceedings who have applied for relief under old suspension rules (pre-1997) or NACARA (Nicaraguan Adjustment and Central American Relief Act) Section 203, as well as cancellation under current law. If you have a case in Immigration Court seeking cancellation of removal (for non-permanent residents) or you are a NACARA beneficiary applying with USCIS, you can apply for an EAD under C10. Important: Do not file under C09 in this scenario. Even though you are seeking permanent residence, you must use C10 for cancellation/NACARA. Applications for cancellation should not be filed under the adjustment category C09.
  
• C11 – Paroled in the Public Interest: For individuals who have been paroled into the U.S. for urgent public interest reasons (not as refugees). If you were granted advance parole or parole at the border, for humanitarian or significant public benefit, and have no other status, you might be eligible for an EAD under C11. This includes certain parole programs (apart from refugee parole, which is A04).
  
• C18 – Order of Supervision: For people who have a final order of removal (deportation) but are temporarily released under supervision because the government cannot remove them. If you have an Order of Supervision from ICE, you can apply for an EAD under C18, commonly given to individuals with stays of deportation or citizens of countries with no diplomatic relations for repatriation.
  
• C20 – Section 210 Legalization (SAW): For applicants who filed Form I-700 for legalization under the Special Agricultural Worker provisions of the Immigration Reform and Control Act of 1986. This was an old legalization program for farm workers; new applications are not accepted, but some people still renew or update their documents.
  
• C22 – Section 245A Legalization: For applicants who filed Form I-687 under the general amnesty legalization program of 1986. Again, this is from the 1980s; new cases would be very rare today, but the category remains for historical cases or late amnesty class members.
  
• C23 – Irish Peace Process Program (Q-2 Nonimmigrants): For certain participants of the Irish Peace Process Cultural and Training Program (Q-2 visa) and their dependents (Q-3). This was a specific cultural exchange/work program for Northern Ireland and border county residents, now expired, but the category exists for any remaining valid period. Q-2/Q-3 status holders could get EADs under C23.
  
• C24 – LIFE Legalization: For applicants of LIFE Act legalization, late legalization program around 2001. This category was for certain class-action settlement beneficiaries who missed the 1986 amnesty filing. If you have a pending LIFE Act legalization application, use C24.
  
• C35 – Principal Beneficiary of Approved Employment-Based Petition with Compelling Circumstances: For certain employment-based green card applicants who are caught in lengthy backlogs and have an approved I-140 petition but cannot file for adjustment of status, and who can show “compelling circumstances.” This category (c)(35) allows a temporary one-year EAD if DHS determines you meet the criteria, e.g., serious illness, employer retaliation, significant disruption if you have to leave the US, etc. It’s meant as a stopgap for some workers waiting for a visa number.
  
• C36 – Spouse or Unmarried Child of a Principal (C35) Beneficiary: For the immediate family (spouse or children) of someone who is granted a C35 EAD. They can also receive EADs under C36 if they are in the U.S. and meet the conditions.

Common Mistakes When Selecting a Category Code (and How to Avoid Them)

Choosing the right EAD category code is simple if you know your status, but errors can delay or reject your application. Avoid these common mistakes:

1. Selecting the wrong category

Applicants often choose a code that doesn’t match their situation (e.g., using C08 instead of C09 with a pending green card). Always confirm your status and choose the code that corresponds to it. Asylees and refugees should continue using A03/A05, not C09. If unsure, check USCIS instructions or ask an expert.

2. Leaving the category blank or listing multiple codes

USCIS rejects forms with no category or more than one. Choose a single code based on your current eligibility.

3. Incorrect formatting

Writing “C9” instead of “(c)(9)” can cause a rejection. Enter the code exactly as shown in the I-765 instructions. If filing online, select the code from the dropdown.

4. Missing supporting evidence

The category must match your documentation. Provide proof of eligibility, such as I-485 or asylum receipt notices, I-94, or your current EAD for renewals.

5. Using outdated or invalid codes

Some codes are obsolete. Use only current USCIS category codes listed in the I-765 instructions.

Note: Choose one valid category that accurately matches your status and provide the correct formatting and evidence to avoid delays.

Tips for a Smooth EAD Application Process

Applying for an EAD requires accuracy, timing, and the right documents. Follow these tips to avoid delays:

File early: Submit renewals up to 180 days before your EAD expires. A new rule expands the automatic extension for many categories from 180 days to 540 days if you file on time, helping cover longer processing periods.

Complete the form carefully: Use the latest I-765 version, fill out all required fields, and sign in black ink if mailing. Small errors, like a wrong A-number or missing signature, can lead to rejection.

Pay the correct fee: Some categories require a fee, while others are free when filed with another form (for example, C09 with I-485). Check the USCIS fee schedule and include the right payment.

Include supporting documents: Attach proof for your category: I-94, receipt notices (I-485, I-589, I-140), and your current EAD for renewals. Missing evidence often causes RFEs.

Send to the right address: USCIS filing locations vary by category and carrier. Confirm the correct address on the I-765 instructions. If eligible, filing online can reduce mailing delays.

Track your case: Use the USCIS online case status, sign up for alerts, and submit a service request if your case goes beyond normal processing time. Respond quickly to any RFE.

Biometrics: Standalone EAD applications rarely require biometrics, but combined filings (like I-485) do. Attend any scheduled appointment to avoid delays.

Use automatic extensions: If your category qualifies, filing on time lets you keep working during processing. The 540-day automatic extension applies to categories like C09, C08, A12/C19, C26, and others.

If delayed or denied: For urgent cases, request an expedited with proof of hardship. If denied, USCIS will explain the reason. Many applicants simply correct the issue and reapply.

Legal Help and Next Steps for Your EAD Application

Confusing EAD category codes, RFEs, or long delays can be frustrating, especially when your ability to work depends on it. If your application is stuck, denied, or you’re unsure which category to file under, you don’t have to handle it alone.

At The Chidolue Law Firm, we help applicants choose the correct EAD category, fix filing errors, respond to RFEs, and push delayed cases forward. Our team understands USCIS requirements, evidence expectations, and how to build a strong application that avoids unnecessary setbacks.

📞 Call The Chidolue Law Firm today at:
➡ 407-995-6567
➡ 678-325-1037

💬 For WhatsApp inquiries, contact us at:
➡ 404-333-8751

Your right to work shouldn’t be left uncertain. Reach out today so we can help you move your EAD application forward with confidence and legal protection.