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) issues to certain qualifying foreign nationals to operate in the United States. Many individuals refer to the card as a work authorization. At USCIS, the Employment Authorization Document is called Form I-766.

The EAD card contains a photograph of the private authorized to work and may include the person's fingerprint. A foreign nationwide who has an EAD typically has open-market work permission, however there are exceptions. The card (Form I-766) is a valid I-9 file for employers.

EAD Validity Period

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

Eligibility for a Work Authorization Document

There are essentially 2 various kinds of nonimmigrants who might be eligible to ask for an EAD. Certain foreign nationals are authorized to operate in the United States based upon their immigration status. Although they are already authorized to work, they may need evidence of that benefit. Examples include asylees and refugees. Other foreign nationals are inside the U.S. however require to ask for unique authorization to accept employment. Examples include modification of status applicants, DACA, asylum hunters, and certain trainees.

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Permanent residents (permit holders) do not require an Employment Authorization Document. The green card is evidence of the cardholder's status and work authorization. Likewise, nonimmigrants licensed to be employed with a specific employer do not need 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 eligible for an Employment Authorization Document may request one with Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization. Sometimes, the initial demand for work permission need to be submitted with the application for the underlying status.

Typically, an applicant ought to include the following items for an initial demand:

- 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. Simply put, applicants should submit other particular supporting documents depending on the qualifying basis of eligibility. Additionally, specific initial I-765 requests get sent with the main application.

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

Applicants that prepare Form I-765 through CitizenPath's service also receive customized filing instructions. The filing guidelines will be based upon your specific scenario and will describe exactly what files to send with Form I-765.

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Renewal

You might restore your Employment Authorization Document if you are still qualified for work authorization. File a new Form I-765 and choose the "renewal" option. Generally, you must not apply for a renewal EAD more than 180 days before your newest EAD ends.

Replacement

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