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) issues to specific certifying 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 photo of the individual authorized to work and might include the person's fingerprint. A foreign nationwide who has an EAD normally has open-market work permission, however there are exceptions. The card (Form I-766) is a valid I-9 document for employers.

EAD Validity Period

Generally, a Work Authorization Card is only legitimate up until it's expiration date. Depending upon the individual's immigration status, USCIS usually concerns cards for a two-year duration or less. However, certain EADs held by people with Temporary Protected Status (TPS) and other designated categories might be immediately extended beyond the credibility date on the card.

Eligibility for a Work Authorization Document

There are fundamentally 2 various types of nonimmigrants who might be eligible to ask for an EAD. Certain foreign nationals are licensed to work in the United States based upon their immigration status. Although they are currently licensed to work, they might need evidence of that advantage. Examples consist of asylees and refugees. Other foreign nationals are inside the U.S. but require to ask for special approval to accept work. Examples include adjustment of status applicants, DACA, asylum candidates, and particular students.

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Permanent locals (permit holders) do not need a Work Authorization Document. The permit is evidence of the cardholder's status and work authorization. Likewise, nonimmigrants authorized to be employed with a specific company 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 a Work Authorization Document might ask for one with Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization. In many cases, the initial demand for work permission need to be submitted with the application for the underlying status.

Typically, a candidate should consist of the following items for an initial request:

- Form I-765

USCIS fees

- Copy of Form I-94 Arrival/Departure Record

- Two passport-style photos

- Proof of eligibility


The list above is a generalization. In other words, applicants must submit other specific supporting files depending on the certifying basis of eligibility. Additionally, certain initial I-765 requests get sent with the primary application.

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

Applicants that prepare Form I-765 through CitizenPath's service also receive individualized filing directions. The filing guidelines will be based upon your particular scenario and will discuss precisely what files to send with Form I-765.

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Renewal

You may renew your Employment Authorization Document if you are still eligible for work authorization. File a new Form I-765 and choose the "renewal" alternative. Generally, you should not submit for a renewal EAD more than 180 days before your most recent EAD expires.

Replacement

You might change your Employment Authorization Document if your most current EAD is lost, stolen or ruined. File a new Form I-765 and select the "replacement" option. If you did not get an EAD that USCIS sent by mail, you can submit an inquiry on non-delivery of a card.