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 an identification 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 private authorized to work and may include the person's finger print. A foreign national who has an EAD usually has open-market employment permission, but there are exceptions. The card (Form I-766) is a legitimate I-9 file for employers.

EAD Validity Period

Generally, an Employment Authorization Card is only legitimate till it's expiration date. Depending upon the person's immigration status, USCIS normally problems cards for a two-year duration or less. However, particular EADs held by people with Temporary Protected Status (TPS) and other designated classifications may be automatically extended beyond the validity date on the card.

Eligibility for a Work Authorization Document

There are essentially 2 different kinds of nonimmigrants who may be eligible to request an EAD. Certain foreign nationals are licensed to work in the United States based upon their migration status. Although they are already authorized to work, they might need proof of that privilege. Examples consist of asylees and refugees. Other foreign nationals are inside the U.S. but need to request unique approval to accept employment. Examples include modification of status applicants, DACA, asylum candidates, and specific students.

RECOMMENDED: List of Eligibility Categories for EAD

Permanent citizens (green card holders) do not require a Work Authorization Document. The green card is proof of the cardholder's status and work authorization. Likewise, nonimmigrants authorized 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 eligible for a Work Authorization Document might request one with Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization. In many cases, the preliminary ask for work permission must be sent with the application for the underlying status.

Typically, an applicant needs to 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 pictures

- Proof of eligibility


The list above is a generalization. Simply put, candidates should send other specific supporting documents depending upon the certifying basis of eligibility. Additionally, certain preliminary I-765 demands get submitted with the primary application.

Mistakes on your Form I-765 can cause expensive hold-ups or a denial.

Applicants that prepare Form I-765 through CitizenPath's service likewise get personalized filing guidelines. The filing instructions will be based upon your specific circumstance and will explain exactly what files to send with Form I-765.

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Renewal

You may restore your Employment Authorization Document if you are still qualified for work permission. File a new Form I-765 and select the "renewal" choice. Generally, you need to not submit for a renewal EAD more than 180 days before your latest EAD ends.

Replacement

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