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

What is a Work 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 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 called Form I-766.

The EAD card consists of a photograph of the specific licensed to work and may include the individual's finger print. A foreign national who has an EAD usually has open-market employment authorization, however there are exceptions. The card (Form I-766) is a legitimate I-9 document for employers.

EAD Validity Period

Generally, an Employment Authorization Card is only valid up until it's expiration date. Depending upon the person's immigration status, USCIS generally issues cards for a two-year duration or less. However, specific EADs held by people with Temporary Protected Status (TPS) and other designated classifications may be immediately extended beyond the credibility date on the card.

Eligibility for an Employment Authorization Document

There are basically two different types of nonimmigrants who might be qualified to ask for an EAD. Certain foreign nationals are authorized to operate in the United States based upon their immigration status. Although they are already authorized to work, they might require evidence of that benefit. Examples consist of asylees and refugees. Other foreign nationals are inside the U.S. but require to request unique consent to accept employment. Examples consist of modification of status candidates, DACA, asylum applicants, and certain trainees.

RECOMMENDED: List of Eligibility Categories for EAD

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

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

How to Request an EAD

Foreign nationals who are qualified for an Employment Authorization Document may ask for one with Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization. In some cases, the preliminary ask for work authorization need to be sent with the application for the underlying status.

Typically, an applicant needs to include the following items for an initial request:

- Form I-765

USCIS fees

- Copy of Form I-94 Arrival/Departure Record

- Two passport-style images

- Proof of eligibility


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

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

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

RECOMMENDED: How to Apply for a U.S. Work Permit

Renewal

You might restore your Employment Authorization Document if you are still qualified for work authorization. File a brand-new Form I-765 and select the "renewal" alternative. Generally, you need to not declare a renewal EAD more than 180 days before your latest EAD expires.

Replacement

You might change your Employment Authorization Document if your newest EAD is lost, taken or damaged. File a brand-new Form I-765 and choose the "replacement" choice. If you did not get an EAD that USCIS sent by mail, you can submit an inquiry on non-delivery of a card.