Home" What is an Employment Authorization Document (Form I-766)?

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

May 9, 2021

An Employment 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. Lots of people describe the card as a work authorization. At USCIS, the Employment Authorization Document is known as Form I-766.

The EAD card consists of a photograph of the individual licensed to work and might consist of the individual's finger print. A foreign nationwide who has an EAD normally has open-market employment authorization, but 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 valid until it's expiration date. Depending on the person's immigration status, USCIS usually problems cards for a two-year period or less. However, certain EADs held by people with Temporary Protected Status (TPS) and other designated classifications may be immediately extended beyond the credibility date on the card.

Eligibility for a Work Authorization Document

There are basically 2 various kinds of nonimmigrants who might be qualified to ask for an EAD. Certain foreign nationals are licensed to operate in the United States based upon their migration status. Although they are currently licensed to work, they might need proof of that benefit. Examples consist of asylees and refugees. Other foreign nationals are inside the U.S. but require to ask for unique permission to accept employment. Examples consist of change of status applicants, DACA, asylum applicants, and particular students.

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Permanent residents (permit holders) do not require an Employment Authorization Document. The green card is evidence of the cardholder's status and work authorization. Likewise, nonimmigrants authorized to be used with a particular company do not require 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 an Employment Authorization Document may ask for one with Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization. In many cases, the initial demand for work permission should be sent with the application for the underlying status.

Typically, an applicant must include the following products for a preliminary 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, applicants need to submit other particular supporting files depending upon the certifying basis of eligibility. Additionally, particular preliminary I-765 requests get sent with the main application.

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

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

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Renewal

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

Replacement

You might replace your Employment Authorization Document if your newest EAD is lost, stolen or ruined. File a new Form I-765 and select the "replacement" option. If you did not get an EAD that USCIS mailed, you can send an inquiry on non-delivery of a card.