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 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 understood as Form I-766.

The EAD card includes a photo of the individual licensed to work and may include the person's fingerprint. A foreign national who has an EAD generally has open-market employment permission, but there are exceptions. The card (Form I-766) is a legitimate I-9 file for companies.

EAD Validity Period

Generally, an Employment Authorization Card is just valid until it's expiration date. Depending on the individual's immigration status, USCIS normally issues cards for a two-year period or less. However, certain EADs held by individuals with Temporary Protected Status (TPS) and other designated classifications may be immediately extended beyond the validity date on the card.

Eligibility for a Work Authorization Document

There are basically 2 various types of nonimmigrants who may be eligible to ask for an EAD. Certain foreign nationals are licensed to work in the United States based upon their immigration status. Although they are already licensed to work, they may need evidence of that benefit. Examples consist of asylees and refugees. Other foreign nationals are inside the U.S. however require to request unique approval to accept work. Examples consist of modification of status applicants, DACA, asylum seekers, and specific trainees.

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Permanent citizens (permit holders) do not need an Employment Authorization Document. The permit is proof of the cardholder's status and work permission. Likewise, nonimmigrants licensed to be used with a specific employer 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 qualified for a Work Authorization Document might ask for one with Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization. In many cases, the initial ask for work permission should be sent with the application for the underlying status.

Typically, an applicant ought to include the following items for an initial demand:

- Form I-765

USCIS charges

- Copy of Form I-94 Arrival/Departure Record

- Two passport-style pictures

- Proof of eligibility


The list above is a generalization. In other words, applicants need to submit other particular supporting documents depending on the qualifying basis of eligibility. Additionally, particular initial I-765 demands 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 receive tailored filing instructions. The filing guidelines will be based upon your particular circumstance and will describe precisely what files to send out with Form I-765.

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Renewal

You may restore your Employment Authorization Document if you are still qualified for work permission. File a new Form I-765 and select the "renewal" alternative. Generally, you ought to not apply for a renewal EAD more than 180 days before your newest EAD ends.

Replacement

You might replace your Employment Authorization Document if your newest EAD is lost, taken or ruined. File a new Form I-765 and pick the "replacement" option. If you did not get an EAD that USCIS sent by mail, you can submit a query on non-delivery of a card.