Refugees and people granted asylum (asylees) are allowed to work because of their status. You do not have to wait for a card.
Refugees: your I-94 with the refugee admission stamp. It works as a receipt for the first 90 days of a job. In that time, you must show a work document such as an EAD or a Social Security card without the words "not valid for employment" plus a photo ID.
Asylees: your I-94 showing asylum status works as proof of work permission. With a photo ID (like a state ID), it is enough for most jobs.
An EAD makes life easier. It works as photo ID and work proof together.
Refugees: many asked for it when they arrived. If not, file Form I-765, category (a)(3).
Asylees: file I-765, category (a)(5).
The first EAD is free for both groups. Some renewals have a fee. Check the fee schedule.
Look at the end date on the card. Renew early. Automatic extensions ended for most renewals filed after October 30, 2025.
Apply soon after arrival. Your resettlement agency often helps or goes with you. See How to get an SSN: students, workers and spouses.
Do not use your home country's passport to travel, and do not go back to the country you fled without legal advice. It can end your protection.
Ask for a Refugee Travel Document with Form I-131 before you travel. It works like a passport.
For refugees, and green card holders who were refugees, it is free. Asylees pay $135 (under 16) or $165 (16 and older).
File it while you are in the US. You must give fingerprints in the US.
Asylum seekers (still waiting)
People with a pending asylum case are not asylees yet. Work needs a (c)(8) EAD, which has waiting periods and new fees from a 2025 law. Talk to a legal service before you file anything.
Traveling without a refugee travel document.
Letting the 90-day receipt window pass without a new work document.
Paying a "notario" to fill forms. Your resettlement agency helps for free. See Finding real legal help.