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

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

May 9, 2021

An Employment Authorization Document (EAD) is a recognition card that U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) concerns to particular 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 referred to as Form I-766.

The EAD card includes a photo of the private licensed to work and might include the person's fingerprint. A foreign nationwide who has an EAD usually has open-market employment authorization, however there are exceptions. The card (Form I-766) is a valid I-9 document for employers.

EAD Validity Period

Generally, a Work Authorization Card is just valid till it's expiration date. Depending upon the individual's immigration status, USCIS generally problems cards for a two-year duration or less. However, specific EADs held by people 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 may be qualified to request 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 may require evidence of that benefit. Examples consist of asylees and refugees. Other foreign nationals are inside the U.S. however require to request unique authorization to accept work. Examples include adjustment of status applicants, DACA, asylum hunters, and particular trainees.

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

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How to Request an EAD

Foreign nationals who are qualified for an Employment Authorization Document may request one with Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization. Sometimes, the initial request for work permission must be sent with the application for the underlying status.

Typically, an applicant needs to consist of the following items for a preliminary request:

- Form I-765

USCIS fees

- 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 send 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 delays or a rejection.

Applicants that prepare Form I-765 through CitizenPath's service likewise get tailored filing directions. The filing instructions will be based upon your particular scenario and will explain precisely what documents to send out with Form I-765.

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Renewal

You may renew your Employment Authorization Document if you are still eligible for work permission. File a brand-new Form I-765 and choose the "renewal" option. Generally, you ought to not apply for a renewal EAD more than 180 days before your most recent EAD expires.

Replacement

You might replace your Employment Authorization Document if your most recent EAD is lost, taken or destroyed. File a brand-new Form I-765 and pick the "replacement" option. If you did not get an EAD that USCIS sent by mail, you can send a questions on non-delivery of a card.