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) concerns to particular certifying foreign nationals to operate in the United States. Many people describe the card as a work license. At USCIS, the Employment Authorization Document is called Form I-766.

The EAD card contains a picture of the individual authorized to work and might include the individual's finger print. A foreign national who has an EAD generally has open-market employment authorization, however there are exceptions. The card (Form I-766) is a valid I-9 document for companies.

EAD Validity Period

Generally, an Employment Authorization Card is only legitimate till it's expiration date. Depending on the person's immigration status, USCIS usually problems 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 instantly extended beyond the credibility date on the card.

Eligibility for an Employment Authorization Document

There are essentially two different types of nonimmigrants who might be qualified to ask for an EAD. Certain foreign nationals are licensed to operate in the United States based upon their immigration status. Although they are currently licensed to work, they might need proof of that benefit. Examples include asylees and refugees. Other foreign nationals are inside the U.S. however need to ask for special permission to accept employment. Examples consist of modification of status applicants, DACA, asylum seekers, and specific trainees.

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Permanent residents (green card holders) do not require an Employment Authorization Document. The green card is evidence of the cardholder's status and work permission. Likewise, nonimmigrants authorized to be used with a specific employer 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 eligible for an Employment Authorization Document may request one with Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization. In some cases, the initial ask for work permission need to be sent with the application for the underlying status.

Typically, an applicant should consist of the following products for an initial demand:

- 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 should submit other particular supporting files depending upon the certifying basis of eligibility. Additionally, specific initial I-765 demands get sent with the primary application.

Mistakes on your Form I-765 can cause expensive 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 scenario and will explain exactly what documents 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 new Form I-765 and select the "renewal" option. Generally, you should not apply for a renewal EAD more than 180 days before your latest EAD expires.

Replacement

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