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 an identification 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 permit. At USCIS, the Employment Authorization Document is referred to as Form I-766.

The EAD card contains a photograph of the specific authorized to work and might include the individual's fingerprint. A foreign nationwide who has an EAD generally has open-market employment authorization, but there are exceptions. The card (Form I-766) is a valid I-9 document for companies.

EAD Validity Period

Generally, an Employment Authorization Card is just legitimate till it's expiration date. Depending upon the individual's immigration status, USCIS typically concerns cards for a two-year duration or less. However, particular EADs held by people with Temporary Protected Status (TPS) and other designated classifications may be automatically extended beyond the validity date on the card.

Eligibility for a Work Authorization Document

There are essentially two different kinds of nonimmigrants who may be eligible to ask for an EAD. Certain foreign nationals are licensed to operate in the United States based upon their migration status. Although they are already authorized to work, they might need proof of that benefit. Examples include asylees and refugees. Other foreign nationals are inside the U.S. but need to ask for unique consent to accept work. Examples consist of modification of status applicants, DACA, asylum applicants, and specific trainees.

RECOMMENDED: List of Eligibility Categories for EAD

Permanent homeowners (permit holders) do not require an Employment Authorization Document. The permit is evidence of the cardholder's status and work permission. Likewise, nonimmigrants authorized to be employed with a specific company 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 eligible for an Employment Authorization Document might ask for one with Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization. In some cases, the preliminary ask for work authorization must be submitted with the application for the underlying status.

Typically, a candidate must 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. To put it simply, candidates should submit other particular supporting documents depending on the qualifying basis of eligibility. Additionally, certain preliminary I-765 demands get submitted with the primary application.

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

Applicants that prepare Form I-765 through CitizenPath's service likewise receive personalized filing directions. The filing instructions will be based on your specific situation and will describe precisely what documents to send out with Form I-765.

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Renewal

You may renew your Employment Authorization Document if you are still eligible for work authorization. File a new Form I-765 and choose the "renewal" choice. Generally, you must not declare a renewal EAD more than 180 days before your most current EAD expires.

Replacement

You may replace your Employment Authorization Document if your most current EAD is lost, stolen or ruined. File a new Form I-765 and select the "replacement" alternative. If you did not receive an EAD that USCIS mailed, you can submit a questions on non-delivery of a card.