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 specific certifying foreign nationals to operate in the United States. Lots of people describe the card as a work authorization. At USCIS, the Employment Authorization Document is called Form I-766.

The EAD card consists of a photograph of the private authorized to work and might include the individual's finger print. A foreign nationwide who has an EAD typically has open-market employment permission, however 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 only legitimate till it's expiration date. Depending on the person's migration status, USCIS generally problems cards for a two-year duration or less. However, specific EADs held by individuals with Temporary Protected Status (TPS) and other designated categories may be instantly extended beyond the credibility date on the card.

Eligibility for a Work 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 currently licensed to work, they may need evidence of that advantage. Examples include asylees and refugees. Other foreign nationals are inside the U.S. however need to request special approval to accept work. Examples include modification of status applicants, DACA, asylum applicants, and certain students.

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

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

- 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. In other words, applicants must send other specific supporting files depending upon the qualifying basis of eligibility. Additionally, specific initial I-765 demands get sent with the primary application.

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

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

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Renewal

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

Replacement

You may replace your Employment Authorization Document if your newest EAD is lost, taken or damaged. File a new Form I-765 and choose the "replacement" option. If you did not receive an EAD that USCIS mailed, you can submit an inquiry on non-delivery of a card.