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

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

May 9, 2021

A Work Authorization Document (EAD) is an identification card that U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) concerns to particular 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 understood as Form I-766.

The EAD card includes a photo of the specific authorized to work and might include the person's fingerprint. A foreign nationwide who has an EAD normally has open-market work permission, but there are exceptions. The card (Form I-766) is a legitimate I-9 file for employers.

EAD Validity Period

Generally, an Employment Authorization Card is just legitimate till it's expiration date. Depending upon the person's migration status, USCIS usually concerns cards for a two-year duration or less. However, specific EADs held by people with Temporary Protected Status (TPS) and other designated categories might be automatically extended beyond the credibility date on the card.

Eligibility for a Work Authorization Document

There are basically 2 different types of nonimmigrants who may be eligible to request an EAD. Certain foreign nationals are authorized to operate in the United States based upon their immigration status. Although they are already licensed to work, they might require evidence of that advantage. Examples include asylees and refugees. Other foreign nationals are inside the U.S. but require to ask for special approval to accept work. Examples consist of modification of status applicants, DACA, asylum applicants, and certain trainees.

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Permanent homeowners (green card holders) do not need a Work Authorization Document. The permit is proof of the cardholder's status and work permission. Likewise, nonimmigrants authorized to be utilized with a particular 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 an Employment Authorization Document may ask for one with Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization. In some cases, the preliminary ask for work permission should be submitted with the application for the underlying status.

Typically, an applicant needs to include 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. In other words, candidates must send other particular supporting documents depending upon the qualifying basis of eligibility. Additionally, particular preliminary I-765 demands get submitted 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 also receive customized filing guidelines. The filing directions will be based on your specific situation and will explain exactly what files to send with Form I-765.

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Renewal

You might renew your Employment Authorization Document if you are still eligible for work authorization. File a brand-new Form I-765 and select the "renewal" alternative. Generally, you must not apply for a renewal EAD more than 180 days before your newest EAD expires.

Replacement

You may 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 receive an EAD that USCIS mailed, you can submit a questions on non-delivery of a card.