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

What is a Work 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) concerns to specific qualifying foreign nationals to operate in the United States. Lots of people refer to the card as a work permit. At USCIS, the Employment Authorization Document is understood as Form I-766.

The EAD card contains a photograph of the individual authorized to work and might consist of the person's fingerprint. A foreign national who has an EAD generally has open-market employment permission, however there are exceptions. The card (Form I-766) is a valid I-9 document for employers.

EAD Validity Period

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

Eligibility for a Work Authorization Document

There are basically two various kinds of nonimmigrants who might be qualified to request an EAD. Certain foreign nationals are authorized to operate in the United States based on their immigration status. Although they are already authorized to work, they may require evidence of that privilege. Examples include asylees and refugees. Other foreign nationals are inside the U.S. however need to request unique consent to accept employment. Examples include modification of status applicants, DACA, asylum seekers, and particular trainees.

RECOMMENDED: List of Eligibility Categories for EAD

Permanent citizens (permit holders) do not require a Work Authorization Document. The green card is proof of the cardholder's status and work authorization. Likewise, nonimmigrants authorized to be employed with a particular company do not require an EAD. Examples of nonimmigrants with this status include H-1B and TN visa.

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How to Request an EAD

Foreign nationals who are eligible for a Work Authorization Document may request one with Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization. In some cases, the initial ask for work authorization must be sent with the application for the underlying status.

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

- Form I-765

USCIS costs

- Copy of Form I-94 Arrival/Departure Record

- Two passport-style pictures

- Proof of eligibility


The list above is a generalization. To put it simply, applicants should submit other specific supporting documents depending on the certifying basis of eligibility. Additionally, particular initial I-765 requests get sent with the primary application.

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

Applicants that prepare Form I-765 through CitizenPath's service likewise get tailored filing guidelines. The filing directions will be based upon your particular circumstance and will discuss precisely what documents to send out with Form I-765.

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Renewal

You might renew your Employment Authorization Document if you are still eligible for work authorization. File a brand-new Form I-765 and select the "renewal" alternative. Generally, you ought to not declare a renewal EAD more than 180 days before your latest EAD expires.

Replacement

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