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 certain certifying foreign nationals to work in the United States. Lots of people refer to the card as a work permit. At USCIS, the Employment Authorization Document is known as Form I-766.

The EAD card consists of a photograph of the individual licensed to work and may consist of the person's fingerprint. A foreign national who has an EAD generally has open-market work authorization, however there are exceptions. The card (Form I-766) is a legitimate I-9 file for employers.

EAD Validity Period

Generally, an Employment Authorization Card is only legitimate up until it's expiration date. Depending on the person's immigration status, USCIS usually concerns cards for a two-year period or less. However, certain EADs held by people with Temporary Protected Status (TPS) and other designated classifications may be immediately 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 licensed to operate in the United States based on their migration status. Although they are currently licensed to work, they may need proof of that privilege. Examples consist of asylees and refugees. Other foreign nationals are inside the U.S. but require to request unique approval to accept employment. Examples consist of adjustment of status candidates, DACA, asylum applicants, and particular trainees.

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Permanent residents (permit holders) do not require a Work Authorization Document. The permit is proof of the cardholder's status and work permission. Likewise, nonimmigrants licensed to be employed with a specific company do not require 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 may request one with Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization. In many cases, the preliminary demand for work permission must be sent with the application for the underlying status.

Typically, an applicant needs to include the following products for an initial 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. Simply put, applicants must submit other specific supporting files depending on the certifying basis of eligibility. Additionally, specific preliminary I-765 demands get submitted with the main application.

Mistakes on your Form I-765 can cause expensive delays or a denial.

Applicants that prepare Form I-765 through CitizenPath's service also receive personalized filing instructions. The filing guidelines will be based on your specific circumstance and will describe exactly what files to send out 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 new Form I-765 and choose the "renewal" option. Generally, you must not declare a renewal EAD more than 180 days before your newest EAD expires.

Replacement

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