Home" What is a Work 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 certain qualifying foreign nationals to operate in the United States. Many individuals describe the card as a work permit. At USCIS, the Employment Authorization Document is referred to as Form I-766.

The EAD card includes a photo of the individual licensed to work and might consist of the person's fingerprint. A foreign national who has an EAD normally has open-market work authorization, but there are exceptions. The card (Form I-766) is a valid I-9 document for employers.

EAD Validity Period

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

Eligibility for an Employment Authorization Document

There are fundamentally two various kinds of nonimmigrants who might be qualified to request an EAD. Certain foreign nationals are authorized to operate in the United States based on their immigration status. Although they are currently licensed to work, they may require proof of that benefit. Examples include asylees and refugees. Other foreign nationals are inside the U.S. however need to ask for unique approval to accept employment. Examples include modification of status applicants, DACA, asylum candidates, and certain trainees.

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Permanent residents (green card holders) do not require an Employment Authorization Document. The green card is proof of the cardholder's status and work permission. Likewise, nonimmigrants authorized to be utilized with a particular company do not require an EAD. Examples of nonimmigrants with this status include 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 ask for one with Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization. Sometimes, the preliminary ask for work authorization must be sent with the application for the underlying status.

Typically, a candidate ought to consist of the following products for a preliminary demand:

- Form I-765

USCIS fees

- Copy of Form I-94 Arrival/Departure Record

- Two passport-style images

- Proof of eligibility


The list above is a generalization. In other words, applicants should submit other specific supporting documents depending upon the qualifying basis of eligibility. Additionally, particular preliminary I-765 demands get sent with the main application.

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

Applicants that prepare Form I-765 through CitizenPath's service also receive personalized filing directions. The filing directions will be based upon your particular 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 qualified for work permission. 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 most recent EAD expires.

Replacement

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