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 an identification card that U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) issues to certain qualifying foreign nationals to work in the United States. Lots of people refer to the card as a work license. At USCIS, the Employment Authorization Document is known as Form I-766.

The EAD card includes a photo of the private licensed to work and may include the individual's fingerprint. A foreign national who has an EAD normally has open-market employment authorization, however there are exceptions. The card (Form I-766) is a valid I-9 document for employers.

EAD Validity Period

Generally, a Work Authorization Card is only legitimate till it's expiration date. Depending upon the individual's immigration status, USCIS typically problems cards for a two-year duration or less. However, certain 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 a Work Authorization Document

There are essentially two different kinds of nonimmigrants who might be qualified to request an EAD. Certain foreign nationals are licensed to work in the United States based upon their immigration status. Although they are already authorized to work, they may require evidence of that opportunity. Examples include asylees and refugees. Other foreign nationals are inside the U.S. but require to request unique permission to accept work. Examples consist of modification of status candidates, DACA, asylum candidates, and particular students.

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Permanent residents (green card holders) do not need an Employment Authorization Document. The green card is evidence of the cardholder's status and work permission. Likewise, nonimmigrants licensed to be employed with a particular 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 qualified for an Employment Authorization Document may ask for one with Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization. In many cases, the preliminary request for work permission should be sent with the application for the underlying status.

Typically, a candidate must consist of the following items for an initial request:

- Form I-765

USCIS fees

- Copy of Form I-94 Arrival/Departure Record

- Two passport-style images

- Proof of eligibility


The list above is a generalization. Simply put, candidates should send other particular supporting files depending upon the certifying basis of eligibility. Additionally, particular preliminary I-765 requests get submitted with the main application.

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

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

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Renewal

You might restore your Employment Authorization Document if you are still qualified for work authorization. File a new Form I-765 and choose the "renewal" choice. Generally, you should not apply for a renewal EAD more than 180 days before your newest EAD ends.

Replacement

You might change your Employment Authorization Document if your latest EAD is lost, stolen or ruined. File a new Form I-765 and choose the "replacement" choice. If you did not receive an EAD that USCIS mailed, you can submit a questions on non-delivery of a card.