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 specific qualifying foreign nationals to operate in the United States. Many individuals describe the card as a work permit. At USCIS, the Employment Authorization Document is understood as Form I-766.

The EAD card includes a photo of the specific authorized to work and may include the person's finger print. A foreign nationwide who has an EAD generally has open-market employment 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 just valid until it's expiration date. Depending upon the individual's migration status, USCIS usually issues cards for a two-year duration or less. However, certain EADs held by people with Temporary Protected Status (TPS) and other designated classifications might be automatically extended beyond the credibility date on the card.

Eligibility for a Work Authorization Document

There are basically 2 various types of nonimmigrants who might be eligible to ask for 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 evidence of that privilege. Examples consist of asylees and refugees. Other foreign nationals are inside the U.S. however need to request special consent to accept employment. Examples include modification of status candidates, DACA, asylum seekers, and particular trainees.

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Permanent locals (green card holders) do not require an Employment Authorization Document. The green card is proof of the cardholder's status and work authorization. Likewise, nonimmigrants authorized to be employed with a specific 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 a Work Authorization Document may ask for one with Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization. In many cases, the initial demand for work authorization must be submitted with the application for the underlying status.

Typically, an applicant needs to consist of the following items for an initial 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 must submit other particular supporting documents depending upon the certifying basis of eligibility. Additionally, specific initial I-765 requests get submitted with the primary application.

Mistakes on your Form I-765 can trigger costly hold-ups or a rejection.

Applicants that prepare Form I-765 through CitizenPath's service likewise receive personalized filing instructions. The filing guidelines will be based upon your specific scenario and will discuss precisely 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 authorization. File a new Form I-765 and select the "renewal" choice. Generally, you ought to not submit for a renewal EAD more than 180 days before your latest EAD ends.

Replacement

You may replace your Employment Authorization Document if your most current EAD is lost, taken or ruined. File a new Form I-765 and choose the "replacement" choice. If you did not receive an EAD that USCIS sent by mail, you can send a questions on non-delivery of a card.