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) issues to specific certifying foreign nationals to operate in the United States. Many people refer to the card as a work permit. At USCIS, the Employment Authorization Document is known as Form I-766.

The EAD card includes a photo of the private authorized to work and might consist of the person's fingerprint. A foreign national who has an EAD generally has open-market work authorization, however there are exceptions. The card (Form I-766) is a legitimate I-9 document for employers.

EAD Validity Period

Generally, a Work Authorization Card is only legitimate until it's expiration date. Depending on the person's migration 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 categories might be automatically extended beyond the validity date on the card.

Eligibility for an Employment Authorization Document

There are basically two various types of nonimmigrants who may be eligible to ask for an EAD. Certain foreign nationals are authorized to operate in the United States based on their immigration status. Although they are already licensed to work, they may need proof of that benefit. Examples include asylees and refugees. Other foreign nationals are inside the U.S. but need to ask for unique approval to accept employment. Examples include modification of status applicants, DACA, asylum candidates, and certain trainees.

RECOMMENDED: List of Eligibility Categories for EAD

Permanent citizens (green card holders) do not require a Work Authorization Document. The permit is proof of the cardholder's status and work authorization. Likewise, nonimmigrants authorized to be used 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 eligible for a Work Authorization Document might ask for one with Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization. Sometimes, the initial ask for work permission should be submitted with the application for the underlying status.

Typically, a candidate ought to consist of the following products 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. In other words, candidates need to send other particular supporting files depending on the qualifying basis of eligibility. Additionally, certain preliminary I-765 demands get sent with the primary application.

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

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

RECOMMENDED: How to Look for a U.S. Work Permit

Renewal

You may restore your Employment Authorization Document if you are still eligible for work permission. File a brand-new Form I-765 and pick the "renewal" alternative. Generally, you should not file for a renewal EAD more than 180 days before your most recent EAD ends.

Replacement

You may change your Employment Authorization Document if your newest EAD is lost, taken or damaged. File a brand-new Form I-765 and choose the "replacement" alternative. If you did not get an EAD that USCIS mailed, you can send a questions on non-delivery of a card.