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

The EAD card includes a photograph of the private licensed to work and might include the person's finger print. 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 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 duration or less. However, particular EADs held by individuals with Temporary Protected Status (TPS) and other designated classifications may be immediately extended beyond the credibility date on the card.

Eligibility for an Employment Authorization Document

There are essentially 2 various types of nonimmigrants who might be eligible to ask for an EAD. Certain foreign nationals are licensed to work in the United States based on their immigration status. Although they are already authorized to work, they may need proof of that benefit. Examples consist of asylees and refugees. Other foreign nationals are inside the U.S. however require to request special consent to accept employment. Examples include adjustment of status applicants, DACA, asylum applicants, and specific students.

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Permanent residents (green card holders) do not need an Employment Authorization Document. The green card is evidence of the cardholder's status and work authorization. Likewise, nonimmigrants authorized to be employed with a particular 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 qualified for a Work Authorization Document may request one with Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization. Sometimes, the initial demand for work authorization should be sent with the application for the underlying status.

Typically, an applicant must consist of the following products for a preliminary request:

- 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 need to send other particular supporting documents depending upon the qualifying basis of eligibility. Additionally, specific initial I-765 demands get submitted with the main application.

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

Applicants that prepare Form I-765 through CitizenPath's service also get individualized filing instructions. The filing directions will be based upon your specific situation and will discuss exactly what documents to send with Form I-765.

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Renewal

You might renew your Employment Authorization Document if you are still eligible for work authorization. File a brand-new Form I-765 and select the "renewal" option. Generally, you ought to not declare a renewal EAD more than 180 days before your latest EAD ends.

Replacement

You may change your Employment Authorization Document if your latest EAD is lost, taken or destroyed. File a new Form I-765 and choose the "replacement" alternative. If you did not get an EAD that USCIS mailed, you can submit a query on non-delivery of a card.