Home" What is an Employment Authorization Document (Form I-766)?

What is a Work Authorization Document (Form I-766)?

May 9, 2021

A Work Authorization Document (EAD) is an identification card that U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) problems to particular qualifying foreign nationals to work in the United States. Many individuals refer to the card as a work permit. At USCIS, the Employment Authorization Document is referred to as Form I-766.

The EAD card includes a picture of the individual licensed to work and may consist of the person's fingerprint. A foreign national who has an EAD generally has open-market employment permission, but there are exceptions. The card (Form I-766) is a legitimate I-9 document for employers.

EAD Validity Period

Generally, an Employment Authorization Card is just legitimate up until it's expiration date. Depending on the individual's migration status, USCIS typically concerns cards for a two-year duration or less. However, specific EADs held by individuals with Temporary Protected Status (TPS) and other designated classifications might be instantly extended beyond the validity date on the card.

Eligibility for a Work Authorization Document

There are basically two various types of nonimmigrants who may be qualified to ask for an EAD. Certain foreign nationals are authorized to work in the United States based on their migration status. Although they are already authorized to work, they may need proof of that privilege. Examples include asylees and refugees. Other foreign nationals are inside the U.S. however require to request unique approval to accept employment. Examples consist of modification of status applicants, DACA, asylum seekers, and particular students.

RECOMMENDED: List of Eligibility Categories for EAD

Permanent residents (permit holders) do not need a Work Authorization Document. The permit is proof of the cardholder's status and work authorization. Likewise, nonimmigrants authorized to be employed with a specific company 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 ask for one with Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization. In many cases, the initial ask for work permission must be sent with the application for the underlying status.

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

- 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. In other words, candidates must submit other specific supporting documents depending on the certifying basis of eligibility. Additionally, specific preliminary I-765 requests get submitted with the primary application.

Mistakes on your Form I-765 can trigger pricey delays or a denial.

Applicants that prepare Form I-765 through CitizenPath's service likewise receive individualized filing directions. The filing guidelines will be based upon your specific situation and will discuss precisely what files to send out with Form I-765.

RECOMMENDED: How to Request a U.S. Work Permit

Renewal

You might restore your Employment Authorization Document if you are still eligible for work permission. File a brand-new Form I-765 and select the "renewal" choice. Generally, you should not file for a renewal EAD more than 180 days before your most recent EAD ends.

Replacement

You may change your Employment Authorization Document if your most current EAD is lost, stolen or ruined. File a new Form I-765 and pick the "replacement" choice. If you did not get an EAD that USCIS mailed, you can send an inquiry on non-delivery of a card.