Home" What is an Employment Authorization Document (Form I-766)?

What is an Employment Authorization Document (Form I-766)?

May 9, 2021

An Employment Authorization Document (EAD) is an identification card that U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) problems to certain qualifying foreign nationals to work in the United States. Lots of people describe the card as a work authorization. At USCIS, the Employment Authorization Document is referred to as Form I-766.

The EAD card consists of a picture of the private authorized to work and may consist of the person's fingerprint. A foreign national who has an EAD typically has open-market employment permission, however 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 individual's migration status, USCIS usually concerns cards for a two-year duration or less. However, specific EADs held by individuals with Temporary Protected Status (TPS) and other designated categories may be instantly extended beyond the credibility date on the card.

Eligibility for an Employment Authorization Document

There are essentially two various types of nonimmigrants who might be qualified to request an EAD. Certain foreign nationals are licensed to work in the United States based upon their migration status. Although they are currently authorized to work, they might need evidence of that advantage. Examples consist of asylees and refugees. Other foreign nationals are inside the U.S. but require to request special approval to accept employment. Examples consist of adjustment of status applicants, DACA, asylum seekers, and certain trainees.

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Permanent citizens (permit holders) do not require an Employment Authorization Document. The green card is evidence of the cardholder's status and work permission. Likewise, nonimmigrants authorized to be employed with a particular company do not require 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 eligible for an Employment Authorization Document may request one with Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization. In many cases, the preliminary demand for work permission should be submitted with the application for the underlying status.

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

- Form I-765

USCIS charges

- Copy of Form I-94 Arrival/Departure Record

- Two passport-style pictures

- Proof of eligibility


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

Mistakes on your Form I-765 can cause pricey delays or a rejection.

Applicants that prepare Form I-765 through CitizenPath's service also get individualized filing directions. The filing directions will be based on your specific circumstance and will explain exactly what files to send out with Form I-765.

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Renewal

You may restore your Employment Authorization Document if you are still qualified for work permission. File a new Form I-765 and select the "renewal" choice. Generally, you ought to not submit for a renewal EAD more than 180 days before your latest EAD expires.

Replacement

You may change your Employment Authorization Document if your newest EAD is lost, stolen or destroyed. File a new Form I-765 and pick the "replacement" alternative. If you did not receive an EAD that USCIS mailed, you can submit a questions on non-delivery of a card.