USCIS issues the Employment Authorization Document (EAD) to noncitizens legally authorized to work in the United States. The EAD card lists a category code that indicates the specific immigration status or program that allows employment.
Understanding the EAD category codes on the card helps employers verify work eligibility, helps applicants track their authorization, and reduces confusion during renewal or status changes.
| Category Code | Immigration Program or Status | Typical Eligibility Scenario | Card Validity Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| A1 | U.S. Citizen | Born in the United States or naturalized | Usually issued for life |
| A2 | Lawful Permanent Resident | Green card holder | Usually 10 years or at Green Card expiration |
| A3 | Temporary Protected Status | Country conditions prevent safe return | Matches TPS validity period |
| B1 | Asylum Granted | Granted asylum one year or more ago | Usually 10 years or at asylum expiration |
| C1 | Adjustment of Application Pending | Form I-485 filed and waiting for decision | Typically one year, may be renewed |
| D1 | Refugee | Granted refugee status in the United States | Usually one year, renewable to 2 years |
| EAD | Employment Authorization Document Holder | Pending application for work authorization | End date set by USCIS or immigration judge |
Understanding EAD Category Code on the Card
The EAD category code printed on the front of the Employment Authorization Document identifies the legal basis for work authorization. Each code maps to a specific immigration status or application type, and employers often ask for this code to validate employment eligibility in the Federal Basic Pilot program.
Common EAD Category Codes and Their Meanings
When reviewing an EAD card, the two-letter category code is more important than the visible status description in some automated systems. Below are the most common codes seen in U.S. employment and verification contexts.
Work Eligibility for U.S. Citizens and Residents
Category codes A1 and A2 cover U.S. citizens and lawful permanent residents, providing long-term work authorization. Employers generally treat these as unrestricted for the purposes of Form I-9 employment eligibility verification.
Work Eligibility for Asylum and Refugee Status Holders
Category codes B1 (asylum granted) and D1 (refugee) reflect federal protections that allow employment after one year of status. These EAD category codes are routinely used in background checks and indicate ongoing work permission tied to humanitarian status.
How Employers Verify EAD Category Codes
Many employers use electronic verification services that flag the EAD category code to determine whether work authorization is currently valid. The expiration date on the card, tied to the code, helps systems alert employees and HR teams before reauthorization is needed.
Applying or Renewing with the Correct EAD Category Code
When submitting Form I-765 or corresponding supporting documents, applicants must ensure that the requested EAD category code matches their underlying status. Errors in this code can delay processing or lead to requests for additional evidence from USCIS field offices.
Key Takeaways on EAD Category Codes
- Category codes on the EAD card show the legal basis for your work authorization.
- Common codes include A1 (citizen), A2 (green card holder), B1 (asylum), D1 (refugee), C1 (adjustment applicant), and EAD (pending authorization).
- Employers verify these codes during employment eligibility checks and background screenings.
- Accurate codes help prevent processing delays and ensure uninterrupted work permission.
- Always check expiration dates and update your documentation if your status changes.
FAQ
Reader questions
What does the category code on my EAD card mean for my work authorization?
The category code identifies the legal immigration basis for your employment permission. Employers and systems use this code to validate whether you are authorized to work and when that authorization expires.
Can my employer reject my EAD based on the category code?
Employers must accept valid work-authorized documents listed on the List of Acceptable Documents for Form I-9. If your EAD is unexpired and genuine, the category code alone cannot legally justify rejection.
How do I know if my EAD category code will expire soon?
Check the expiration date on the front of your EAD card and compare it to your status end date. If you are in an adjustment of status or awaiting a green card decision, monitor USCIS case updates for changes tied to your code.
What should I do if my EAD category code does not match my current status?
Contact USCIS or an immigration attorney promptly. You may need to file an updated Form I-765 or provide additional documentation to correct the code and restore valid work authorization.