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

What is a Work 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) issues to particular certifying foreign nationals to work in the United States. Many people refer to the card as a work authorization. At USCIS, the Employment Authorization Document is referred to as Form I-766.

The EAD card contains a photograph of the private authorized to work and might include the person's finger print. A foreign national who has an EAD normally has open-market employment permission, but 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 only valid till it's expiration date. Depending on the person's migration status, USCIS usually concerns cards for a two-year period or less. However, particular EADs held by individuals with Temporary Protected Status (TPS) and other designated categories might be immediately extended beyond the credibility date on the card.

Eligibility for an Employment Authorization Document

There are essentially two different types of nonimmigrants who may be qualified to request an EAD. Certain foreign nationals are authorized to operate in the United States based on their immigration status. Although they are already licensed to work, they may need proof of that benefit. Examples consist of asylees and refugees. Other foreign nationals are inside the U.S. but require to ask for special consent to accept work. Examples consist of change of status applicants, DACA, asylum candidates, and particular trainees.

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Permanent locals (green card 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 specific employer 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 qualified for a Work Authorization Document may ask for one with Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization. In some cases, the initial ask for work authorization should be sent with the application for the underlying status.

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

- Form I-765

USCIS costs

- Copy of Form I-94 Arrival/Departure Record

- Two passport-style images

- Proof of eligibility


The list above is a generalization. Simply put, candidates need to submit other specific supporting documents depending upon the qualifying basis of eligibility. Additionally, particular preliminary I-765 demands get sent with the primary application.

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

Applicants that prepare Form I-765 through CitizenPath's service likewise get individualized filing guidelines. The filing instructions will be based upon your particular scenario and will describe exactly what files to send out with Form I-765.

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Renewal

You may renew your Employment Authorization Document if you are still qualified for work authorization. File a new Form I-765 and select the "renewal" option. Generally, you must not declare a renewal EAD more than 180 days before your most current EAD expires.

Replacement

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