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 qualifying foreign nationals to work in the United States. Many individuals describe the card as a work permit. At USCIS, the Employment Authorization Document is called Form I-766.

The EAD card includes a picture of the individual licensed to work and may include the person's fingerprint. 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 document for employers.

EAD Validity Period

Generally, a Work Authorization Card is only legitimate till it's expiration date. Depending upon the person's immigration status, USCIS normally concerns cards for a two-year duration or less. However, certain EADs held by individuals with Temporary Protected Status (TPS) and other designated categories might be immediately extended beyond the credibility date on the card.

Eligibility for an Employment Authorization Document

There are fundamentally two different types of nonimmigrants who might be qualified to ask for an EAD. Certain foreign nationals are authorized to work in the United States based upon their migration status. Although they are currently licensed to work, they may need proof of that opportunity. Examples include asylees and refugees. Other foreign nationals are inside the U.S. but require to request unique authorization to accept employment. Examples include adjustment of status applicants, DACA, asylum seekers, and certain trainees.

RECOMMENDED: List of Eligibility Categories for EAD

Permanent homeowners (green card holders) do not require an Employment Authorization Document. The green card is evidence of the cardholder's status and work authorization. Likewise, nonimmigrants licensed to be utilized 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 might request one with Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization. In many cases, the initial ask for work authorization need to be submitted with the application for the underlying status.

Typically, an applicant should include the following items for an initial request:

- 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. Simply put, candidates should send other particular supporting files depending on the certifying basis of eligibility. Additionally, certain preliminary I-765 demands get sent with the primary 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 receive personalized filing directions. The filing guidelines will be based upon your specific circumstance and will describe exactly what documents to send out with Form I-765.

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Renewal

You might renew your Employment Authorization Document if you are still eligible for work authorization. File a brand-new Form I-765 and pick the "renewal" choice. Generally, you should not apply for a renewal EAD more than 180 days before your newest EAD ends.

Replacement

You might replace your Employment Authorization Document if your newest EAD is lost, taken or damaged. File a new Form I-765 and select the "replacement" alternative. If you did not get an EAD that USCIS sent by mail, you can send an inquiry on non-delivery of a card.