Home" What is an Employment 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 certain certifying foreign nationals to operate in the United States. Many individuals refer to the card as a work authorization. At USCIS, the Employment Authorization Document is referred to as Form I-766.

The EAD card includes a picture of the specific authorized to work and may include the individual's fingerprint. A foreign nationwide who has an EAD normally has open-market work permission, however there are exceptions. The card (Form I-766) is a valid I-9 document for employers.

EAD Validity Period

Generally, an Employment Authorization Card is only legitimate till it's expiration date. Depending upon the person's immigration status, USCIS normally issues cards for a two-year period or less. However, specific EADs held by individuals with Temporary Protected Status (TPS) and other designated categories may be automatically 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 authorized to work in the United States based upon their migration status. Although they are already authorized to work, they may need proof of that opportunity. Examples include asylees and refugees. Other foreign nationals are inside the U.S. however require to ask for unique permission to accept employment. Examples consist of modification of status candidates, DACA, asylum seekers, and certain students.

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Permanent homeowners (permit holders) do not require an Employment Authorization Document. The permit is proof of the cardholder's status and work authorization. Likewise, nonimmigrants licensed to be utilized 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 qualified for a Work Authorization Document might request one with Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization. In some cases, the preliminary demand for work permission need to be submitted with the application for the underlying status.

Typically, a candidate needs to include the following items for an initial demand:

- Form I-765

USCIS charges

- Copy of Form I-94 Arrival/Departure Record

- Two passport-style pictures

- Proof of eligibility


The list above is a generalization. In other words, candidates should submit other particular supporting documents 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 costly hold-ups or a denial.

Applicants that prepare Form I-765 through CitizenPath's service also get individualized filing instructions. The filing directions will be based upon your particular circumstance and will discuss precisely what documents to send out with Form I-765.

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Renewal

You may restore your Employment Authorization Document if you are still eligible for work authorization. File a new Form I-765 and select the "renewal" choice. Generally, you need to not file for a renewal EAD more than 180 days before your newest EAD ends.

Replacement

You may replace your Employment Authorization Document if your most recent EAD is lost, stolen or destroyed. File a new Form I-765 and pick the "replacement" option. If you did not get an EAD that USCIS mailed, you can send a query on non-delivery of a card.