Home" What is a Work 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) concerns to specific certifying foreign nationals to work 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 consists of a picture of the private licensed to work and might include the individual's finger print. A foreign national who has an EAD normally has open-market employment authorization, however there are exceptions. The card (Form I-766) is a legitimate I-9 file for companies.

EAD Validity Period

Generally, an Employment Authorization Card is only legitimate until it's expiration date. Depending on the individual's immigration status, USCIS usually issues cards for a two-year period or less. However, certain EADs held by individuals with Temporary Protected Status (TPS) and other designated categories might be instantly extended beyond the validity date on the card.

Eligibility for a Work Authorization Document

There are fundamentally 2 different kinds of nonimmigrants who may be eligible to ask for an EAD. Certain foreign nationals are licensed to operate in the United States based on their immigration status. Although they are already licensed to work, they might require proof of that benefit. Examples consist of asylees and refugees. Other foreign nationals are inside the U.S. but need to ask for unique consent to accept work. Examples include change of status applicants, DACA, asylum applicants, and certain trainees.

RECOMMENDED: List of Eligibility Categories for EAD

Permanent homeowners (permit holders) do not require an Employment Authorization Document. The permit is evidence of the cardholder's status and work authorization. Likewise, nonimmigrants licensed to be used with a specific employer do not require an EAD. Examples of nonimmigrants with this status consist of H-1B and TN visa.

RECOMMENDED: U.S. Work Visa Types for Foreign Nationals

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 many cases, the preliminary ask for work authorization must be sent with the application for the underlying status.

Typically, a candidate must include the following items for an initial demand:

- Form I-765

USCIS charges

- Copy of Form I-94 Arrival/Departure Record

- Two passport-style photos

- Proof of eligibility


The list above is a generalization. In other words, candidates should send other particular supporting files depending on the qualifying basis of eligibility. Additionally, particular preliminary I-765 demands get sent with the main application.

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

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

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

Renewal

You might 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 should not file for a renewal EAD more than 180 days before your newest EAD ends.

Replacement

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