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 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 understood as Form I-766.

The EAD card includes a photo of the private authorized to work and might include the individual's fingerprint. A foreign national who has an EAD usually has open-market employment permission, however 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 just valid till it's expiration date. Depending upon the person's migration status, USCIS generally problems cards for a two-year duration or less. However, particular EADs held by individuals with Temporary Protected Status (TPS) and other designated classifications might be instantly extended beyond the validity date on the card.

Eligibility for an Employment Authorization Document

There are essentially two different types of nonimmigrants who might be qualified to ask for an EAD. Certain foreign nationals are authorized to operate in the United States based upon their immigration status. Although they are currently licensed to work, they might need evidence of that privilege. Examples include asylees and refugees. Other foreign nationals are inside the U.S. however need to ask for special consent to accept work. Examples consist of change of status applicants, DACA, asylum candidates, and specific students.

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Permanent residents (permit holders) do not require an Employment Authorization Document. The green card is proof of the cardholder's status and work permission. Likewise, nonimmigrants authorized to be utilized with a particular employer do not need 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 an Employment Authorization Document might request one with Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization. Sometimes, the initial ask for work authorization should be sent with the application for the underlying status.

Typically, a candidate ought to consist of the following items for an initial request:

- Form I-765

USCIS costs

- Copy of Form I-94 Arrival/Departure Record

- Two passport-style images

- Proof of eligibility


The list above is a generalization. To put it simply, candidates should submit other specific supporting files depending upon the qualifying basis of eligibility. Additionally, particular initial I-765 requests get sent with the primary application.

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

Applicants that prepare Form I-765 through CitizenPath's service likewise receive individualized filing guidelines. The filing guidelines will be based upon your particular circumstance and will discuss 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 qualified for work permission. File a new Form I-765 and pick the "renewal" option. Generally, you should not file for a renewal EAD more than 180 days before your newest EAD expires.

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 select the "replacement" alternative. If you did not get an EAD that USCIS sent by mail, you can submit an inquiry on non-delivery of a card.