Home" What is an Employment 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) problems to specific certifying foreign nationals to work in the United States. Lots of people describe the card as a work permit. At USCIS, the Employment Authorization Document is referred to as Form I-766.

The EAD card contains a picture of the individual licensed to work and might consist of the person's finger print. A foreign national who has an EAD typically has open-market employment authorization, however there are exceptions. The card (Form I-766) is a valid I-9 file for employers.

EAD Validity Period

Generally, an Employment Authorization Card is just legitimate up until it's expiration date. Depending on the individual's migration status, USCIS normally problems cards for a two-year duration or less. However, specific EADs held by individuals with Temporary Protected Status (TPS) and other designated classifications may be instantly extended beyond the credibility date on the card.

Eligibility for an Employment Authorization Document

There are essentially two various kinds of nonimmigrants who might be eligible to ask for an EAD. Certain foreign nationals are authorized to work in the United States based upon their immigration status. Although they are currently authorized to work, they might require proof of that privilege. Examples consist of asylees and refugees. Other foreign nationals are inside the U.S. however need to ask for special permission to accept employment. Examples include modification of status candidates, DACA, asylum candidates, and certain trainees.

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Permanent locals (permit holders) do not need an Employment Authorization Document. The green card is proof of the cardholder's status and work authorization. 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 qualified for a Work Authorization Document may request one with Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization. In some cases, the initial request for work permission need to be sent with the application for the underlying status.

Typically, a candidate ought to consist of the following products 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, candidates should submit other particular supporting documents depending upon the qualifying basis of eligibility. Additionally, certain preliminary I-765 demands get sent with the main application.

Mistakes on your Form I-765 can cause pricey hold-ups or a rejection.

Applicants that prepare Form I-765 through CitizenPath's service likewise get individualized filing directions. The filing instructions will be based on your specific circumstance and will explain exactly what documents to send out with Form I-765.

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Renewal

You might restore your Employment Authorization Document if you are still qualified for work authorization. File a new Form I-765 and choose the "renewal" alternative. Generally, you need to not submit for a renewal EAD more than 180 days before your most current EAD ends.

Replacement

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