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 a recognition card that U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) issues to certain qualifying foreign nationals to work in the United States. Many people describe the card as a work authorization. At USCIS, the Employment Authorization Document is understood as Form I-766.

The EAD card consists of a picture of the specific licensed to work and may include the individual's fingerprint. A foreign national who has an EAD usually 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, an Employment Authorization Card is only valid until it's expiration date. Depending upon the individual's immigration status, USCIS usually concerns cards for a two-year period or less. However, certain EADs held by people with Temporary Protected Status (TPS) and other designated categories may be instantly extended beyond the credibility date on the card.

Eligibility for a Work Authorization Document

There are basically two different types of nonimmigrants who might be qualified to request an EAD. Certain foreign nationals are authorized to work in the United States based upon their migration status. Although they are currently licensed to work, they may require proof of that opportunity. 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 modification of status candidates, DACA, asylum applicants, and certain students.

RECOMMENDED: List of Eligibility Categories for EAD

Permanent locals (permit holders) do not need an Employment Authorization Document. The permit is evidence of the cardholder's status and work permission. Likewise, nonimmigrants licensed to be used with a particular employer do not require 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. Sometimes, the initial demand for work authorization should be sent with the application for the underlying status.

Typically, an applicant must consist of the following items for an initial demand:

- Form I-765

USCIS fees

- 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, candidates need to submit other particular supporting documents depending on the qualifying basis of eligibility. Additionally, particular initial I-765 demands get submitted with the main application.

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

Applicants that prepare Form I-765 through CitizenPath's service likewise get tailored filing guidelines. The filing directions will be based upon your particular situation and will explain exactly what files to send with Form I-765.

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Renewal

You might renew your Employment Authorization Document if you are still eligible for work permission. File a brand-new Form I-765 and select the "renewal" alternative. Generally, you must not file for a renewal EAD more than 180 days before your latest EAD ends.

Replacement

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