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) issues to certain certifying foreign nationals to operate in the United States. Lots of people refer to the card as a work permit. At USCIS, the Employment Authorization Document is referred to as Form I-766.

The EAD card contains a photo of the specific authorized to work and may include the individual's finger print. A foreign nationwide who has an EAD usually has open-market employment authorization, but there are exceptions. The card (Form I-766) is a valid I-9 file for companies.

EAD Validity Period

Generally, an Employment Authorization Card is just valid up until it's expiration date. Depending on the individual's immigration status, USCIS generally issues cards for a two-year period or less. However, particular EADs held by individuals with Temporary Protected Status (TPS) and other designated classifications may be automatically extended beyond the credibility date on the card.

Eligibility for a Work Authorization Document

There are essentially two different kinds of nonimmigrants who may be qualified to request 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 advantage. Examples include asylees and refugees. Other foreign nationals are inside the U.S. however require to request special approval to accept employment. Examples include adjustment of status applicants, DACA, asylum hunters, and particular students.

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

Typically, a candidate should include the following products for an initial request:

- Form I-765

USCIS costs

- Copy of Form I-94 Arrival/Departure Record

- Two passport-style photos

- Proof of eligibility


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

Mistakes on your Form I-765 can trigger expensive delays or a rejection.

Applicants that prepare Form I-765 through CitizenPath's service also get individualized filing guidelines. The filing instructions will be based upon your specific scenario and will explain precisely 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 eligible for work authorization. File a brand-new Form I-765 and choose the "renewal" alternative. Generally, you should not declare a renewal EAD more than 180 days before your most current EAD ends.

Replacement

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