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

What is a Work 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) concerns to particular qualifying foreign nationals to work 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 consists of a picture of the individual licensed to work and may include the person's fingerprint. A foreign nationwide who has an EAD typically has open-market employment authorization, however there are exceptions. The card (Form I-766) is a legitimate I-9 document for employers.

EAD Validity Period

Generally, a Work Authorization Card is just valid till it's expiration date. Depending upon the individual's immigration status, USCIS normally concerns cards for a two-year duration or less. However, specific EADs held by individuals with Temporary Protected Status (TPS) and other designated classifications may be instantly extended beyond the credibility date on the card.

Eligibility for an Employment Authorization Document

There are fundamentally 2 various kinds of nonimmigrants who might be qualified to ask for an EAD. Certain foreign nationals are licensed to work in the United States based upon their migration status. Although they are currently licensed to work, they may need evidence of that advantage. Examples include asylees and refugees. Other foreign nationals are inside the U.S. however need to ask for special approval to accept employment. Examples include adjustment of status applicants, DACA, asylum candidates, and specific trainees.

RECOMMENDED: List of Eligibility Categories for EAD

Permanent locals (permit holders) do not require a Work Authorization Document. The green card is evidence of the cardholder's status and work authorization. Likewise, nonimmigrants authorized to be utilized with a specific company 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 ask for work authorization must be submitted with the application for the underlying status.

Typically, a candidate needs to consist of the following products for an initial demand:

- Form I-765

USCIS fees

- Copy of Form I-94 Arrival/Departure Record

- Two passport-style pictures

- Proof of eligibility


The list above is a generalization. Simply put, applicants must send other particular supporting files depending upon the qualifying basis of eligibility. Additionally, specific preliminary I-765 requests get submitted with the main 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 upon your specific situation and will discuss exactly what documents to send with Form I-765.

RECOMMENDED: How to Make an application for a U.S. Work Permit

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" choice. Generally, you ought to not apply for a renewal EAD more than 180 days before your most recent EAD expires.

Replacement

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