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

What is an Employment 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 particular certifying foreign nationals to operate in the United States. Many individuals describe the card as a work license. At USCIS, the Employment Authorization Document is known as Form I-766.

The EAD card consists of a photo of the individual licensed to work and might consist of the individual's fingerprint. A foreign national who has an EAD normally has open-market work permission, but there are exceptions. The card (Form I-766) is a valid I-9 document for employers.

EAD Validity Period

Generally, an Employment Authorization Card is only legitimate until it's expiration date. Depending on the individual's migration status, USCIS typically concerns cards for a two-year duration or less. However, particular EADs held by people with Temporary Protected Status (TPS) and other designated categories may be automatically extended beyond the credibility date on the card.

Eligibility for a Work Authorization Document

There are essentially two different kinds of nonimmigrants who might be eligible to ask for an EAD. Certain foreign nationals are licensed to work in the United States based upon their immigration status. Although they are currently licensed to work, they may need proof of that advantage. Examples consist of asylees and refugees. Other foreign nationals are inside the U.S. but need to ask for special permission to accept work. Examples include change of status applicants, DACA, asylum candidates, and particular trainees.

RECOMMENDED: List of Eligibility Categories for EAD

Permanent citizens (green card holders) do not need a Work Authorization Document. The permit is evidence of the cardholder's status and work permission. Likewise, nonimmigrants authorized to be used with a particular employer do not need an EAD. Examples of nonimmigrants with this status consist of H-1B and TN visa.

RECOMMENDED: U.S. Work Visa Types for Foreign Nationals

How to Request an EAD

Foreign nationals who are eligible for an Employment Authorization Document might ask for one with Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization. Sometimes, the initial demand for work permission must be submitted with the application for the underlying status.

Typically, a candidate should include the following products for an initial demand:

- Form I-765

USCIS costs

- Copy of Form I-94 Arrival/Departure Record

- Two passport-style photos

- Proof of eligibility


The list above is a generalization. Simply put, applicants must submit other particular supporting files depending on the certifying basis of eligibility. Additionally, certain preliminary I-765 requests get submitted with the main application.

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

Applicants that prepare Form I-765 through CitizenPath's service also receive individualized filing directions. The filing directions will be based upon your particular circumstance and will explain exactly what documents to send out with Form I-765.

RECOMMENDED: How to Request a U.S. Work Permit

Renewal

You may restore your Employment Authorization Document if you are still qualified for work permission. File a new Form I-765 and choose the "renewal" choice. Generally, you should not file for a renewal EAD more than 180 days before your most recent EAD ends.

Replacement

You may replace your Employment Authorization Document if your latest EAD is lost, taken or destroyed. File a brand-new Form I-765 and choose the "replacement" option. If you did not get an EAD that USCIS mailed, you can submit an inquiry on non-delivery of a card.