Home" What is a Work Authorization Document (Form I-766)?

What is a Work 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 certain qualifying foreign nationals to work in the United States. Lots of people describe the card as a work license. At USCIS, the Employment Authorization Document is called Form I-766.

The EAD card contains a picture of the individual authorized to work and might consist of the person's finger print. A foreign national who has an EAD usually 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, an Employment Authorization Card is just valid up until it's expiration date. Depending upon the individual's migration status, USCIS typically problems cards for a two-year duration or less. However, specific EADs held by people with Temporary Protected Status (TPS) and other designated classifications may be instantly extended beyond the validity date on the card.

Eligibility for a Work Authorization Document

There are fundamentally 2 various types of nonimmigrants who may 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 currently authorized to work, they may need evidence of that privilege. Examples consist of asylees and refugees. Other foreign nationals are inside the U.S. however require to ask for unique permission to accept work. Examples consist of adjustment of status applicants, DACA, asylum hunters, and certain students.

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Permanent homeowners (green card holders) do not need a Work Authorization Document. The permit 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 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. Sometimes, the initial ask for work permission must be sent with the application for the underlying status.

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

- Form I-765

USCIS charges

- Copy of Form I-94 Arrival/Departure Record

- Two passport-style pictures

- Proof of eligibility


The list above is a generalization. In other words, applicants must send other specific supporting files depending upon the certifying basis of eligibility. Additionally, specific preliminary I-765 requests get submitted with the main application.

Mistakes on your Form I-765 can cause pricey hold-ups or a rejection.

Applicants that prepare Form I-765 through CitizenPath's service also get customized filing guidelines. The filing instructions will be based on your particular situation and will discuss exactly 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 qualified for work authorization. File a brand-new Form I-765 and select the "renewal" option. Generally, you need to not file for a renewal EAD more than 180 days before your most current EAD expires.

Replacement

You might change your Employment Authorization Document if your latest 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 a query on non-delivery of a card.