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

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

May 9, 2021

A Work Authorization Document (EAD) is a recognition card that U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) issues to specific qualifying foreign nationals to work in the United States. Lots of people refer to the card as a work authorization. At USCIS, the Employment Authorization Document is called Form I-766.

The EAD card includes a photo of the specific licensed to work and might consist of the person's fingerprint. A foreign nationwide who has an EAD usually has open-market employment authorization, but there are exceptions. The card (Form I-766) is a valid I-9 file for companies.

EAD Validity Period

Generally, an Employment Authorization Card is just legitimate until it's expiration date. Depending on the person's immigration status, USCIS usually concerns 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 immediately extended beyond the credibility date on the card.

Eligibility for a Work Authorization Document

There are fundamentally 2 different kinds of nonimmigrants who may be qualified to request an EAD. Certain foreign nationals are authorized to operate in the United States based upon their migration status. Although they are currently licensed to work, they may need proof of that advantage. Examples include asylees and refugees. Other foreign nationals are inside the U.S. but require to request unique permission to accept employment. Examples include change of status candidates, DACA, asylum hunters, and certain students.

RECOMMENDED: List of Eligibility Categories for EAD

Permanent residents (green card holders) do not need an Employment Authorization Document. The permit is evidence of the cardholder's status and work authorization. Likewise, nonimmigrants licensed to be utilized with a particular employer do not require an EAD. Examples of nonimmigrants with this status consist of H-1B and TN visa.

RECOMMENDED: U.S. Work Visa Types for Foreign Nationals

How to Request an EAD

Foreign nationals who are qualified for a Work Authorization Document might ask for one with Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization. In many cases, the preliminary demand for work permission need to 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 charges

- Copy of Form I-94 Arrival/Departure Record

- Two passport-style pictures

- Proof of eligibility


The list above is a generalization. Simply put, candidates need to send other particular supporting files depending on the qualifying basis of eligibility. Additionally, specific initial I-765 requests get submitted with the main application.

Mistakes on your Form I-765 can trigger costly delays or a denial.

Applicants that prepare Form I-765 through CitizenPath's service likewise get customized filing directions. The filing instructions will be based upon your particular situation and will describe exactly what files to send out with Form I-765.

RECOMMENDED: How to Request a U.S. Work Permit

Renewal

You might renew your Employment Authorization Document if you are still qualified for work permission. File a brand-new Form I-765 and pick the "renewal" choice. Generally, you should not apply for a renewal EAD more than 180 days before your most current EAD ends.

Replacement

You might change your Employment Authorization Document if your newest EAD is lost, stolen or ruined. File a brand-new Form I-765 and pick the "replacement" option. If you did not get an EAD that USCIS sent by mail, you can submit a questions on non-delivery of a card.