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 an identification card that U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) concerns to specific certifying foreign nationals to operate in the United States. Many people refer to the card as a work license. At USCIS, the Employment Authorization Document is known as Form I-766.

The EAD card includes a photograph of the private licensed to work and might include the person's fingerprint. A foreign national who has an EAD usually has open-market employment permission, however there are exceptions. The card (Form I-766) is a valid I-9 document for employers.

EAD Validity Period

Generally, an Employment Authorization Card is just valid up until it's expiration date. Depending on the individual's immigration 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 might be automatically extended beyond the validity date on the card.

Eligibility for a Work Authorization Document

There are essentially two different types of nonimmigrants who might be eligible to request an EAD. Certain foreign nationals are authorized to operate in the United States based upon their migration status. Although they are already licensed to work, they may need proof of that benefit. Examples include asylees and refugees. Other foreign nationals are inside the U.S. however require to request special permission to accept employment. Examples include change of status candidates, DACA, asylum candidates, and particular trainees.

RECOMMENDED: List of Eligibility Categories for EAD

Permanent homeowners (permit holders) do not require a Work Authorization Document. The green card is evidence of the cardholder's status and work authorization. Likewise, nonimmigrants licensed to be employed with a specific 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 qualified for a Work Authorization Document may request one with Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization. In many cases, the initial ask for work authorization must be submitted with the application for the underlying status.

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

- 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. To put it simply, applicants must send other specific supporting documents depending on the certifying basis of eligibility. Additionally, particular initial I-765 demands get sent with the primary application.

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

Applicants that prepare Form I-765 through CitizenPath's service likewise get personalized filing guidelines. The filing directions will be based upon your particular situation and will discuss 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 new Form I-765 and select the "renewal" alternative. Generally, you should not declare a renewal EAD more than 180 days before your newest EAD expires.

Replacement

You may replace your Employment Authorization Document if your most recent EAD is lost, taken or ruined. File a new Form I-765 and select the "replacement" option. If you did not receive an EAD that USCIS sent by mail, you can send a questions on non-delivery of a card.