Home" What is an Employment 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) issues to certain certifying 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 called Form I-766.

The EAD card consists of a photograph of the specific authorized to work and may consist of the person's finger print. A foreign national who has an EAD usually has open-market employment authorization, but there are exceptions. The card (Form I-766) is a valid I-9 file for companies.

EAD Validity Period

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

Eligibility for an Employment Authorization Document

There are essentially two different types of nonimmigrants who may be qualified to ask for an EAD. Certain foreign nationals are authorized to operate in the United States based upon their migration status. Although they are already licensed to work, they may require evidence of that privilege. Examples include asylees and refugees. Other foreign nationals are inside the U.S. however require to ask for special permission to accept employment. Examples include modification of status applicants, DACA, asylum candidates, and certain students.

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Permanent citizens (permit holders) do not require a Work Authorization Document. The permit is evidence of the cardholder's status and work authorization. Likewise, nonimmigrants licensed to be employed with a particular employer 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 qualified for a Work Authorization Document might request one with Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization. Sometimes, the initial request for work authorization should be sent with the application for the underlying status.

Typically, a candidate should consist of the following items for a preliminary 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, applicants need to send other particular supporting documents depending upon the certifying basis of eligibility. Additionally, certain preliminary I-765 demands get sent with the primary application.

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

Applicants that prepare Form I-765 through CitizenPath's service also receive personalized filing guidelines. The filing guidelines will be based on your specific scenario and will describe precisely what files to send with Form I-765.

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Renewal

You might restore your Employment Authorization Document if you are still eligible for work permission. File a new Form I-765 and pick the "renewal" choice. Generally, you need to not submit for a renewal EAD more than 180 days before your latest EAD ends.

Replacement

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