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

What is an Employment 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 operate in the United States. Many individuals describe the card as a work license. At USCIS, the Employment Authorization Document is understood as Form I-766.

The EAD card contains a photograph of the private licensed to work and might include the individual's fingerprint. A foreign national who has an EAD normally has open-market work authorization, however there are exceptions. The card (Form I-766) is a valid I-9 file for employers.

EAD Validity Period

Generally, a Work Authorization Card is only valid till it's expiration date. Depending on the individual's migration status, USCIS typically problems cards for a two-year period or less. However, particular EADs held by people with Temporary Protected Status (TPS) and other designated classifications might be instantly extended beyond the credibility date on the card.

Eligibility for a Work Authorization Document

There are fundamentally two different types of nonimmigrants who might be eligible to ask for an EAD. Certain foreign nationals are authorized to operate 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. however need to ask for special authorization to accept employment. Examples consist of adjustment of status applicants, DACA, asylum hunters, and specific 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 utilized with a specific company 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 an Employment Authorization Document might request one with Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization. In many cases, the initial demand for work authorization must be submitted with the application for the underlying status.

Typically, an applicant needs to include the following products 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. To put it simply, candidates need to send other specific supporting documents depending on the qualifying basis of eligibility. Additionally, particular preliminary I-765 demands get submitted with the primary application.

Mistakes on your Form I-765 can trigger pricey 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 on your specific circumstance and will explain precisely what files to send with Form I-765.

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Renewal

You might restore 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 should not submit for a renewal EAD more than 180 days before your newest EAD ends.

Replacement

You may replace your Employment Authorization Document if your latest EAD is lost, stolen or ruined. File a brand-new Form I-765 and select the "replacement" choice. If you did not receive an EAD that USCIS mailed, you can submit a query on non-delivery of a card.