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

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

The EAD card includes a photo of the specific licensed to work and may consist of the person's fingerprint. A foreign national who has an EAD normally has open-market employment permission, but 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 only valid up until it's expiration date. Depending on the individual's immigration status, USCIS usually concerns cards for a two-year duration or less. However, specific EADs held by individuals with Temporary Protected Status (TPS) and other designated categories might be automatically extended beyond the credibility date on the card.

Eligibility for a Work Authorization Document

There are fundamentally two various types of nonimmigrants who might 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 already authorized to work, they might require evidence of that advantage. Examples consist of asylees and refugees. Other foreign nationals are inside the U.S. but need to ask for special approval to accept work. Examples consist of modification of status applicants, DACA, asylum seekers, and certain trainees.

RECOMMENDED: List of Eligibility Categories for EAD

Permanent residents (green card holders) do not require an Employment Authorization Document. The permit is evidence of the cardholder's status and work authorization. Likewise, nonimmigrants authorized to be employed with a particular 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 eligible for an Employment Authorization Document might request one with Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization. Sometimes, the preliminary request for work permission must be submitted with the application for the underlying status.

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

- Form I-765

USCIS charges

- Copy of Form I-94 Arrival/Departure Record

- Two passport-style photos

- Proof of eligibility


The list above is a generalization. In other words, applicants need to send other specific 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 costly hold-ups or a denial.

Applicants that prepare Form I-765 through CitizenPath's service likewise get customized filing directions. The filing directions will be based on your particular circumstance and will describe exactly what files to send with Form I-765.

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Renewal

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

Replacement

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