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 an identification card that U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) problems to particular qualifying foreign nationals to operate in the United States. Many individuals describe the card as a work permit. At USCIS, the Employment Authorization Document is called Form I-766.

The EAD card contains a photo of the private licensed to work and might consist of the person's fingerprint. A foreign nationwide who has an EAD normally has open-market employment permission, however there are exceptions. The card (Form I-766) is a legitimate I-9 document for companies.

EAD Validity Period

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

Eligibility for an Employment Authorization Document

There are essentially two various types of nonimmigrants who may be eligible to request an EAD. Certain foreign nationals are authorized to work in the United States based upon their immigration status. Although they are currently licensed to work, they may need evidence of that privilege. Examples include asylees and refugees. Other foreign nationals are inside the U.S. but need to ask for unique approval to accept employment. Examples include adjustment of status candidates, DACA, asylum candidates, and specific students.

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Permanent locals (green card holders) do not require a Work Authorization Document. The green card is proof of the cardholder's status and work authorization. Likewise, nonimmigrants licensed to be utilized 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 an Employment Authorization Document may request one with Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization. In some cases, the preliminary ask for work permission need to be submitted with the application for the underlying status.

Typically, a candidate ought to consist of the following products for a preliminary request:

- 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, applicants need to send other particular supporting documents depending upon the certifying basis of eligibility. Additionally, certain preliminary I-765 requests get submitted with the main application.

Mistakes on your Form I-765 can trigger costly hold-ups or a rejection.

Applicants that prepare Form I-765 through CitizenPath's service also get tailored filing guidelines. The filing guidelines will be based upon your particular situation and will discuss exactly 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 qualified for work permission. File a brand-new Form I-765 and choose the "renewal" choice. Generally, you must not apply for a renewal EAD more than 180 days before your newest EAD expires.

Replacement

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