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 a recognition card that U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) problems to specific certifying foreign nationals to work in the United States. Lots of people refer to the card as a work authorization. At USCIS, the Employment Authorization Document is called Form I-766.

The EAD card includes a photo of the individual licensed to work and might consist of the person's fingerprint. A foreign national who has an EAD normally has open-market work authorization, but there are exceptions. The card (Form I-766) is a valid I-9 file for employers.

EAD Validity Period

Generally, a Work Authorization Card is just legitimate till it's expiration date. Depending on the person's migration status, USCIS normally problems cards for a two-year period or less. However, particular EADs held by individuals with Temporary Protected Status (TPS) and other designated categories might be immediately extended beyond the validity date on the card.

Eligibility for a Work Authorization Document

There are basically 2 different types of nonimmigrants who may be eligible to ask for an EAD. Certain foreign nationals are authorized to operate in the United States based on their immigration status. Although they are currently authorized to work, they might need proof of that benefit. Examples consist of asylees and refugees. Other foreign nationals are inside the U.S. however require to request unique consent to accept employment. Examples include adjustment of status applicants, DACA, asylum hunters, and certain students.

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Permanent residents (permit holders) do not need a Work Authorization Document. The green card is evidence 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 eligible for a Work Authorization Document may request one with Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization. In many cases, the preliminary ask for work permission must be submitted with the application for the underlying status.

Typically, an applicant needs to include the following items for an initial 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. Simply put, candidates should submit other particular supporting files depending on the certifying basis of eligibility. Additionally, specific initial I-765 requests get submitted 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 personalized filing instructions. The filing instructions will be based on your specific scenario and will explain 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 authorization. File a brand-new Form I-765 and pick the "renewal" option. Generally, you need to not file for a renewal EAD more than 180 days before your latest EAD ends.

Replacement

You may change your Employment Authorization Document if your latest EAD is lost, stolen or destroyed. File a new Form I-765 and pick the "replacement" choice. If you did not receive an EAD that USCIS sent by mail, you can send a query on non-delivery of a card.