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 specific certifying foreign nationals to operate in the United States. Lots of people describe the card as a work license. At USCIS, the Employment Authorization Document is known as Form I-766.

The EAD card includes a photo of the individual licensed to work and might include the person's finger print. A foreign nationwide who has an EAD typically 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 valid until it's expiration date. Depending upon the individual's migration status, USCIS normally issues cards for a two-year period or less. However, specific EADs held by individuals 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 two different types of nonimmigrants who may 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 might need evidence of that benefit. Examples consist of asylees and refugees. Other foreign nationals are inside the U.S. but require to request unique approval to accept work. Examples consist of change of status candidates, DACA, asylum applicants, and particular trainees.

RECOMMENDED: List of Eligibility Categories for EAD

Permanent residents (green card holders) do not require an Employment Authorization Document. The green card is proof of the cardholder's status and work authorization. Likewise, nonimmigrants authorized to be used with a specific employer do not require an EAD. Examples of nonimmigrants with this status include H-1B and TN visa.

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

How to Request an EAD

Foreign nationals who are qualified for a Work Authorization Document might request one with Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization. In some cases, the initial ask for work authorization should be sent with the application for the underlying status.

Typically, a candidate needs to consist of the following products for a preliminary request:

- Form I-765

USCIS charges

- Copy of Form I-94 Arrival/Departure Record

- Two passport-style images

- Proof of eligibility


The list above is a generalization. Simply put, candidates must submit other particular supporting documents depending upon the certifying basis of eligibility. Additionally, particular initial I-765 demands get submitted with the primary application.

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

Applicants that prepare Form I-765 through CitizenPath's service likewise get individualized filing directions. The filing instructions will be based on your specific situation and will explain precisely what documents to send with Form I-765.

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

Renewal

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

Replacement

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