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

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

May 9, 2021

A Work Authorization Document (EAD) is an identification card that U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) problems to certain qualifying foreign nationals to operate in the United States. Many individuals refer to the card as a work permit. At USCIS, the Employment Authorization Document is called Form I-766.

The EAD card includes a photo of the private authorized to work and might include the person's finger print. A foreign national who has an EAD typically has open-market work authorization, however there are exceptions. The card (Form I-766) is a legitimate I-9 document for companies.

EAD Validity Period

Generally, a Work Authorization Card is just legitimate up until it's expiration date. Depending on the person's immigration status, USCIS generally concerns cards for a two-year duration or less. However, specific EADs held by individuals with Temporary Protected Status (TPS) and other designated classifications might be instantly extended beyond the validity date on the card.

Eligibility for an Employment Authorization Document

There are essentially 2 different types of nonimmigrants who may be eligible to ask for an EAD. Certain foreign nationals are authorized to work in the United States based upon their migration status. Although they are currently authorized to work, they may need proof of that opportunity. Examples include asylees and refugees. Other foreign nationals are inside the U.S. however need to request unique approval to accept work. Examples consist of change of status candidates, DACA, asylum applicants, and particular students.

RECOMMENDED: List of Eligibility Categories for EAD

Permanent citizens (permit holders) do not require 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 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 request one with Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization. Sometimes, the preliminary ask for work permission should be submitted with the application for the underlying status.

Typically, a candidate needs to include the following products for a preliminary demand:

- Form I-765

USCIS charges

- Copy of Form I-94 Arrival/Departure Record

- Two passport-style images

- Proof of eligibility


The list above is a generalization. In other words, candidates need to send other specific supporting documents depending on the certifying basis of eligibility. Additionally, specific initial I-765 demands get sent with the main application.

Mistakes on your Form I-765 can trigger expensive delays or a rejection.

Applicants that prepare Form I-765 through CitizenPath's service likewise receive tailored filing directions. The filing guidelines will be based upon your specific circumstance and will describe exactly what documents to send with Form I-765.

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

Renewal

You may restore your Employment Authorization Document if you are still qualified for work permission. File a brand-new Form I-765 and select the "renewal" choice. Generally, you ought to not declare a renewal EAD more than 180 days before your newest EAD expires.

Replacement

You may change your Employment Authorization Document if your newest EAD is lost, stolen or ruined. File a new Form I-765 and pick the "replacement" option. If you did not receive an EAD that USCIS mailed, you can submit an inquiry on non-delivery of a card.