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) issues to specific qualifying foreign nationals to operate in the United States. Many individuals refer to the card as a work permit. At USCIS, the Employment Authorization Document is referred to as Form I-766.

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

EAD Validity Period

Generally, an Employment Authorization Card is just legitimate up until it's expiration date. Depending on the person's immigration status, USCIS usually concerns cards for a two-year duration or less. However, particular EADs held by individuals with Temporary Protected Status (TPS) and other designated categories may be instantly extended beyond the credibility date on the card.

Eligibility for a Work Authorization Document

There are basically two various kinds 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 already authorized to work, they might require evidence of that benefit. Examples consist of asylees and refugees. Other foreign nationals are inside the U.S. but need to request unique permission to accept employment. Examples include modification of status candidates, DACA, asylum hunters, and certain trainees.

RECOMMENDED: List of Eligibility Categories for EAD

Permanent homeowners (green card holders) do not require a Work Authorization Document. The green card is evidence of the cardholder's status and work authorization. Likewise, nonimmigrants licensed to be used with a particular employer do not need 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 might ask for one with Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization. In some cases, the preliminary demand for work authorization must be sent with the application for the underlying status.

Typically, a candidate ought to include the following products for a preliminary demand:

- Form I-765

USCIS fees

- 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, candidates need to submit other specific supporting documents depending upon the qualifying basis of eligibility. Additionally, specific preliminary I-765 requests get sent with the primary application.

Mistakes on your Form I-765 can trigger pricey hold-ups or a denial.

Applicants that prepare Form I-765 through CitizenPath's service likewise receive customized filing directions. The filing instructions will be based upon your specific situation and will describe precisely 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 authorization. File a brand-new Form I-765 and pick the "renewal" alternative. Generally, you must not apply for a renewal EAD more than 180 days before your latest EAD expires.

Replacement

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