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) concerns to specific certifying foreign nationals to operate in the United States. Many individuals refer to the card as a work authorization. At USCIS, the Employment Authorization Document is referred to as Form I-766.

The EAD card contains a photo of the specific authorized to work and may consist of the individual's finger print. A foreign nationwide who has an EAD generally has open-market work permission, 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 up until it's expiration date. Depending on the person's migration status, USCIS usually concerns cards for a two-year period or less. However, particular EADs held by individuals with Temporary Protected Status (TPS) and other designated classifications may be immediately extended beyond the credibility date on the card.

Eligibility for an Employment Authorization Document

There are basically 2 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 on their migration status. Although they are currently authorized to work, they may require proof of that advantage. Examples consist of asylees and refugees. Other foreign nationals are inside the U.S. however need to request unique authorization to accept employment. Examples consist of change of status applicants, DACA, asylum candidates, and particular students.

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Permanent residents (green card holders) do not need an Employment Authorization Document. The permit is evidence of the cardholder's status and work authorization. Likewise, nonimmigrants licensed to be employed with a particular employer 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 an Employment Authorization Document might ask for one with Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization. In some cases, the initial demand for work permission must be sent with the application for the underlying status.

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

- 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. To put it simply, applicants must submit other particular supporting documents 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 pricey delays or a rejection.

Applicants that prepare Form I-765 through CitizenPath's service likewise get personalized filing instructions. The filing directions will be based on your specific situation and will explain exactly what files to send out 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 select the "renewal" choice. Generally, you need to not apply for a renewal EAD more than 180 days before your latest EAD expires.

Replacement

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