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

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

May 9, 2021

A Work Authorization Document (EAD) is an identification card that U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) issues to specific certifying foreign nationals to work in the United States. Many 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 individual's fingerprint. A foreign nationwide who has an EAD typically has open-market employment permission, but there are exceptions. The card (Form I-766) is a valid I-9 file for companies.

EAD Validity Period

Generally, a Work Authorization Card is only legitimate till it's expiration date. Depending upon the individual's migration status, USCIS typically issues cards for a two-year duration or less. However, particular 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 an Employment Authorization Document

There are essentially 2 different kinds of nonimmigrants who may be eligible to request an EAD. Certain foreign nationals are licensed to operate in the United States based on their migration status. Although they are currently authorized to work, they might need evidence of that privilege. Examples include asylees and refugees. Other foreign nationals are inside the U.S. however need to ask for unique permission to accept work. Examples consist of modification of status applicants, DACA, asylum seekers, and certain students.

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Permanent residents (green card holders) do not need an Employment Authorization Document. The green card is evidence of the cardholder's status and work permission. Likewise, nonimmigrants licensed to be utilized with a specific employer 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 may ask for one with Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization. Sometimes, the initial ask for work authorization should be submitted with the application for the underlying status.

Typically, a candidate ought to include the following products for a preliminary 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 send other particular supporting documents depending on the certifying basis of eligibility. Additionally, particular preliminary I-765 demands get sent with the main application.

Mistakes on your Form I-765 can trigger expensive delays or a denial.

Applicants that prepare Form I-765 through CitizenPath's service also receive customized filing directions. The filing guidelines will be based upon your specific scenario and will explain exactly what documents to send with Form I-765.

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Renewal

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

Replacement

You might replace your Employment Authorization Document if your most recent EAD is lost, stolen or damaged. File a new Form I-765 and select the "replacement" option. If you did not receive an EAD that USCIS mailed, you can submit an inquiry on non-delivery of a card.