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

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

May 9, 2021

A Work Authorization Document (EAD) is a recognition card that U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) concerns to certain 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 called Form I-766.

The EAD card contains a photo of the individual authorized to work and may include the person's finger print. A foreign nationwide who has an EAD usually has open-market work permission, however there are exceptions. The card (Form I-766) is a valid I-9 document for employers.

EAD Validity Period

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

Eligibility for an Employment Authorization Document

There are basically 2 various types of nonimmigrants who may be eligible to request an EAD. Certain foreign nationals are licensed to operate in the United States based upon their immigration status. Although they are currently authorized to work, they may need evidence of that advantage. Examples consist of asylees and refugees. Other foreign nationals are inside the U.S. but require to ask for special approval to accept work. Examples consist of modification of status candidates, DACA, asylum hunters, and certain trainees.

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Permanent citizens (permit holders) do not require a Work Authorization Document. The permit is evidence of the cardholder's status and work permission. Likewise, nonimmigrants authorized to be employed with a specific company do not need 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 eligible for an Employment Authorization Document might request one with Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization. In some cases, the initial ask for work permission need to be sent with the application for the underlying status.

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

- Form I-765

USCIS charges

- 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 documents depending on the qualifying basis of eligibility. Additionally, particular initial I-765 requests get sent with the main application.

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

Applicants that prepare Form I-765 through CitizenPath's service also receive individualized filing guidelines. The filing directions will be based on your specific circumstance and will discuss precisely what files to send 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 new Form I-765 and choose the "renewal" option. Generally, you should not submit for a renewal EAD more than 180 days before your most recent EAD expires.

Replacement

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