Home" What is an Employment 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 particular qualifying foreign nationals to operate in the United States. Many people describe the card as a work permit. At USCIS, the Employment Authorization Document is referred to as Form I-766.

The EAD card includes a photo of the private licensed to work and may include the individual's fingerprint. A foreign nationwide who has an EAD typically has open-market work authorization, however there are exceptions. The card (Form I-766) is a legitimate I-9 document for employers.

EAD Validity Period

Generally, a Work Authorization Card is just legitimate up until it's expiration date. Depending upon the person's immigration status, USCIS generally problems cards for a two-year period or less. However, certain EADs held by individuals with Temporary Protected Status (TPS) and other designated classifications might be immediately extended beyond the credibility date on the card.

Eligibility for a Work Authorization Document

There are fundamentally two different types of nonimmigrants who might be qualified to request an EAD. Certain foreign nationals are authorized to work in the United States based upon their migration status. Although they are already licensed to work, they may need evidence of that benefit. Examples consist of asylees and refugees. Other foreign nationals are inside the U.S. however need to ask for special consent to accept work. Examples include adjustment of status candidates, DACA, asylum candidates, and specific trainees.

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Permanent citizens (green card holders) do not require a Work Authorization Document. The green card is evidence of the cardholder's status and work authorization. Likewise, nonimmigrants authorized 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 qualified for an Employment Authorization Document might ask for one with Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization. In many cases, the preliminary ask for work authorization need to be sent with the application for the underlying status.

Typically, a candidate should consist of the following products for a preliminary demand:

- Form I-765

USCIS charges

- Copy of Form I-94 Arrival/Departure Record

- Two passport-style images

- Proof of eligibility


The list above is a generalization. To put it simply, candidates should submit other specific supporting files depending on the qualifying basis of eligibility. Additionally, certain preliminary I-765 demands get sent with the main application.

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

Applicants that prepare Form I-765 through CitizenPath's service also get tailored filing instructions. The filing directions will be based on your particular situation and will explain precisely 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 permission. File a new Form I-765 and choose the "renewal" choice. Generally, you need to not apply for a renewal EAD more than 180 days before your most current EAD expires.

Replacement

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