Home" What is an Employment Authorization Document (Form I-766)?

What is an Employment 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) concerns to specific qualifying foreign nationals to work in the United States. Many individuals describe the card as a work authorization. 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 might consist of the person's fingerprint. A foreign nationwide who has an EAD normally has open-market employment authorization, however there are exceptions. The card (Form I-766) is a legitimate I-9 file for companies.

EAD Validity Period

Generally, a Work Authorization Card is just legitimate till it's expiration date. Depending on the person's migration status, USCIS typically issues 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 automatically extended beyond the credibility date on the card.

Eligibility for an Employment Authorization Document

There are basically 2 various kinds of nonimmigrants who may be eligible to ask for an EAD. Certain foreign nationals are authorized to work in the United States based on their migration status. Although they are currently licensed to work, they might require evidence of that advantage. Examples include asylees and refugees. Other foreign nationals are inside the U.S. however require to request unique permission to accept employment. Examples consist of adjustment of status candidates, DACA, asylum candidates, and certain students.

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

Typically, an applicant needs to consist of the following products for an initial request:

- Form I-765

USCIS fees

- Copy of Form I-94 Arrival/Departure Record

- Two passport-style pictures

- Proof of eligibility


The list above is a generalization. Simply put, candidates should send other particular supporting documents depending upon the qualifying basis of eligibility. Additionally, specific preliminary I-765 requests get submitted with the primary 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 upon your specific circumstance and will describe precisely what documents to send 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 pick the "renewal" choice. Generally, you must not file for 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 ruined. 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.