Home" What is a Work Authorization Document (Form I-766)?

What is a Work Authorization Document (Form I-766)?

May 9, 2021

A Work Authorization Document (EAD) is a recognition card that U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) issues to specific certifying foreign nationals to work in the United States. Many individuals refer to the card as a work authorization. At USCIS, the Employment Authorization Document is called Form I-766.

The EAD card contains a picture of the specific authorized to work and may consist of the individual's fingerprint. A foreign nationwide who has an EAD generally has open-market employment authorization, but there are exceptions. The card (Form I-766) is a legitimate I-9 file for employers.

EAD Validity Period

Generally, an Employment Authorization Card is just valid till it's expiration date. Depending on the person's migration status, USCIS typically problems cards for a two-year period or less. However, specific EADs held by individuals with Temporary Protected Status (TPS) and other designated classifications might be immediately extended beyond the credibility date on the card.

Eligibility for a Work Authorization Document

There are basically 2 various kinds of nonimmigrants who might be qualified to ask for an EAD. Certain foreign nationals are licensed to work in the United States based on their immigration status. Although they are currently authorized to work, they might need evidence of that privilege. Examples consist of asylees and refugees. Other foreign nationals are inside the U.S. however require to ask for special permission to accept employment. Examples consist of change of status applicants, DACA, asylum seekers, and particular students.

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Permanent citizens (permit holders) do not need an Employment Authorization Document. The permit is evidence of the cardholder's status and work authorization. Likewise, nonimmigrants licensed to be used with a specific company do not need an EAD. Examples of nonimmigrants with this status consist of H-1B and TN visa.

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How to Request an EAD

Foreign nationals who are qualified for a Work Authorization Document might request one with Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization. In some cases, the initial demand for work authorization need to be submitted with the application for the underlying status.

Typically, a candidate needs to consist of the following items for an initial demand:

- Form I-765

USCIS fees

- Copy of Form I-94 Arrival/Departure Record

- Two passport-style pictures

- Proof of eligibility


The list above is a generalization. To put it simply, candidates should submit other particular supporting files depending upon the certifying basis of eligibility. Additionally, certain initial I-765 requests get submitted with the primary application.

Mistakes on your Form I-765 can cause pricey hold-ups or a denial.

Applicants that prepare Form I-765 through CitizenPath's service also get customized filing instructions. The filing directions will be based upon your specific circumstance and will describe precisely what files to send out with Form I-765.

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Renewal

You might restore your Employment Authorization Document if you are still qualified for work authorization. File a brand-new Form I-765 and select the "renewal" option. Generally, you should not file for a renewal EAD more than 180 days before your most recent EAD expires.

Replacement

You might change your Employment Authorization Document if your most recent EAD is lost, taken or damaged. File a brand-new Form I-765 and choose the "replacement" choice. If you did not get an EAD that USCIS mailed, you can send a questions on non-delivery of a card.