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

What is an Employment 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) problems to certain certifying foreign nationals to work in the United States. Many individuals describe the card as a work license. At USCIS, the Employment Authorization Document is referred to as Form I-766.

The EAD card consists of a photo of the specific authorized to work and may consist of the person's fingerprint. A foreign national who has an EAD normally has open-market work authorization, however 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 only legitimate up until it's expiration date. Depending on the person's immigration status, USCIS generally concerns 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 automatically extended beyond the credibility date on the card.

Eligibility for an Employment Authorization Document

There are essentially 2 different kinds of nonimmigrants who might be qualified to request an EAD. Certain foreign nationals are licensed to work in the United States based on their migration status. Although they are currently authorized to work, they may require proof of that benefit. Examples consist of asylees and refugees. Other foreign nationals are inside the U.S. however need to request unique authorization to accept employment. Examples include change of status candidates, DACA, asylum candidates, and certain trainees.

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

Typically, a candidate ought to include the following items for an initial request:

- 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 need to send other specific supporting files depending upon the certifying basis of eligibility. Additionally, certain preliminary I-765 requests get sent with the primary application.

Mistakes on your Form I-765 can cause pricey delays or a rejection.

Applicants that prepare Form I-765 through CitizenPath's service likewise get individualized filing guidelines. The filing directions will be based on your particular circumstance and will describe precisely what files to send with Form I-765.

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Renewal

You may renew your Employment Authorization Document if you are still eligible for work permission. File a brand-new Form I-765 and choose the "renewal" alternative. Generally, you need to not declare a renewal EAD more than 180 days before your newest EAD expires.

Replacement

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