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) problems to specific qualifying foreign nationals to work in the United States. Lots of people refer to the card as a work authorization. At USCIS, the Employment Authorization Document is referred to as Form I-766.

The EAD card consists of a photograph of the individual authorized to work and might consist of the individual's finger print. A foreign national who has an EAD normally 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, an Employment Authorization Card is just legitimate till it's expiration date. Depending on the individual's migration status, USCIS generally problems cards for a two-year duration or less. However, particular EADs held by individuals with Temporary Protected Status (TPS) and other designated classifications may be immediately extended beyond the credibility date on the card.

Eligibility for an Employment Authorization Document

There are fundamentally 2 different types of nonimmigrants who might 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 currently authorized to work, they might need proof of that privilege. Examples consist of asylees and refugees. Other foreign nationals are inside the U.S. but require to ask for special permission to accept employment. Examples include modification of status applicants, DACA, asylum applicants, and certain students.

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Permanent residents (permit holders) do not need 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 need 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 a Work Authorization Document may ask for one with Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization. Sometimes, the initial request for work authorization should be submitted with the application for the underlying status.

Typically, an applicant should include the following items for a preliminary request:

- Form I-765

USCIS costs

- Copy of Form I-94 Arrival/Departure Record

- Two passport-style images

- Proof of eligibility


The list above is a generalization. To put it simply, candidates need to submit other particular supporting documents depending on the qualifying basis of eligibility. Additionally, certain preliminary I-765 requests get sent with the primary 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 get tailored filing guidelines. The filing instructions will be based on your particular situation and will explain exactly what documents to send with Form I-765.

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Renewal

You may restore your Employment Authorization Document if you are still eligible for work permission. File a brand-new Form I-765 and select the "renewal" option. Generally, you ought to not apply for a renewal EAD more than 180 days before your latest EAD ends.

Replacement

You might replace your Employment Authorization Document if your latest EAD is lost, taken or destroyed. File a brand-new Form I-765 and select the "replacement" choice. If you did not receive an EAD that USCIS mailed, you can send an inquiry on non-delivery of a card.