Home" What is an Employment 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) problems to particular qualifying foreign nationals to work in the United States. Many individuals refer to the card as a work license. At USCIS, the Employment Authorization Document is called Form I-766.

The EAD card contains a photograph of the specific authorized to work and may consist of the individual's fingerprint. A foreign nationwide who has an EAD normally has open-market employment authorization, however there are exceptions. The card (Form I-766) is a legitimate I-9 file for employers.

EAD Validity Period

Generally, an Employment Authorization Card is only valid till it's expiration date. Depending upon the person's migration status, USCIS normally problems cards for a two-year duration or less. However, specific EADs held by people with Temporary Protected Status (TPS) and other designated classifications might be immediately extended beyond the credibility date on the card.

Eligibility for an Employment Authorization Document

There are essentially 2 various kinds of nonimmigrants who may be eligible to ask for an EAD. Certain foreign nationals are authorized to operate in the United States based on their migration status. Although they are already licensed to work, they may need proof of that opportunity. Examples include asylees and refugees. Other foreign nationals are inside the U.S. but need to ask for special authorization to accept work. Examples consist of change of status applicants, DACA, asylum seekers, and particular students.

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Permanent residents (permit holders) do not need an Employment Authorization Document. The green card is evidence of the cardholder's status and work permission. Likewise, nonimmigrants licensed to be used with a specific employer 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 qualified for an Employment Authorization Document may request one with Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization. In some cases, the preliminary ask for work authorization should be submitted with the application for the underlying status.

Typically, an applicant needs to consist of the following items for a preliminary demand:

- Form I-765

USCIS fees

- Copy of Form I-94 Arrival/Departure Record

- Two passport-style photos

- Proof of eligibility


The list above is a generalization. To put it simply, candidates should send other particular 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 costly hold-ups or a denial.

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

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Renewal

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

Replacement

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