When can I file my work permit application after filing asylum?

A pending-asylum applicant generally must accrue 150 days on the official asylum EAD clock before filing Form I-765. Use the official USCIS CSOL record for an affirmative case or the official EOIR clock record for a defensive case, and check the current Form I-765 instructions before filing.

What is the difference between the 150-day and 180-day rule?

The 150-day rule determines when you can FILE Form I-765 for EAD, while the 180-day rule determines when you're eligible to RECEIVE the EAD card.

How should clock stoppages be entered in the calculator?

Do not estimate stopped days from generic delay categories. For an affirmative USCIS case, enter the total stopped days shown in CSOL. For a defensive case, use the total from the official EOIR asylum EAD clock record.

How do I check my asylum clock stoppages?

Use USCIS CSOL for an affirmative USCIS case to view the official stopped-day total and days accrued. A defensive applicant should use the official EOIR asylum EAD clock record.

Does this calculator work for defensive asylum cases?

It can provide a general date estimate if a defensive-asylum applicant enters the relevant receipt or filing date and stopped-day total from the official EOIR clock record. The official EOIR record controls.

What happens if I file my I-765 too early?

USCIS may reject a Form I-765 filed before the 150-day waiting period has elapsed. Verify the official clock record and current Form I-765 instructions before filing.

Can I work while my I-765 application is pending?

A pending Form I-765 does not by itself authorize employment. For an asylum-based EAD, employment may begin after approval, receipt of the card, and its validity or start date, unless the person has separate valid work authorization.

How long is an asylum-based EAD valid, and can I renew it?

For pending-asylum EAD category (c)(8), USCIS reduced the maximum validity period from 5 years to 18 months for initial and renewal applications pending or filed on or after Dec. 5, 2025. Already issued 5-year cards are not affected by that change.

How much does it cost to file Form I-765 for asylum EAD?

As of the USCIS FY 2026 HR-1 fee update, the initial asylum applicant EAD fee is $560 and the renewal or extension fee is $275. HR-1 fees cannot be waived or reduced.

What should I do if my EAD application is denied?

If your EAD application is denied, carefully review the denial notice to understand the reason. You can file a new application once you address the issues.

Can I travel outside the US while my asylum case is pending?

Traveling outside the US while your asylum case is pending can be complicated. Apply for advance parole (Form I-131) before leaving.

What is the CSOL tool and why is it important?

The Clock Stoppage Online (CSOL) Tool provides official asylum-clock information for affirmative USCIS cases, including stopped days and days accrued. Defensive cases use official EOIR clock records.

Can I include my spouse and children in my asylum EAD application?

Your spouse and unmarried children under 21 who are included in your asylum application can also apply for EAD.

What should I do if I find errors in my CSOL record?

For USCIS CSOL errors, file an e-Request through your USCIS online account. Defensive applicants should follow EOIR's clock correction process.

Is this calculator legally binding or official?

No, this calculator is an educational tool and provides estimates based on general rules. It is not legally binding; verify critical dates with USCIS CSOL or EOIR records.

Free EAD Calculator — Asylum Clock 150 & 180-Day

Guides to the asylum EAD clock

How to check your asylum clockUSCIS CSOL and the EOIR phone line, step by step.
Check your EAD clockWhat the EAD clock is and how to read yours.
Check your asylum clockEvery official way to look up your clock.
The 150-day and 180-day rulesWhy they are different, with the USCIS formulas.
Why your asylum clock stoppedWhat pauses the clock, and what does not.
Look up your clock with an A-NumberUsing your alien number to check status.
EOIR asylum clock phone numberCall 1-800-898-7180 for a defensive case.
The USCIS CSOL toolThe official record for an affirmative case.
Affirmative vs defensive asylumWhich clock record applies to your case.
Asylum EAD questions answeredThe 15 questions people ask most.