Home" What is a Work 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) concerns to particular certifying foreign nationals to operate in the United States. Many individuals describe the card as a work permit. At USCIS, the Employment Authorization Document is referred to as Form I-766.

The EAD card contains a photograph of the specific licensed to work and might include the person's finger print. A foreign nationwide who has an EAD usually has open-market work permission, but there are exceptions. The card (Form I-766) is a valid I-9 document for companies.

EAD Validity Period

Generally, an Employment Authorization Card is only valid up until it's expiration date. Depending on the individual's migration status, USCIS usually concerns cards for a two-year duration or less. However, particular EADs held by people with Temporary Protected Status (TPS) and other designated categories may be instantly extended beyond the validity date on the card.

Eligibility for a Work Authorization Document

There are essentially 2 various types of nonimmigrants who may be eligible to request an EAD. Certain foreign nationals are authorized to work in the United States based on their migration status. Although they are currently authorized to work, they may require evidence of that benefit. Examples consist of asylees and refugees. Other foreign nationals are inside the U.S. but require to request unique consent to accept work. Examples include modification of status candidates, DACA, asylum seekers, and particular trainees.

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Permanent homeowners (green card holders) do not need an Employment Authorization Document. The green card is evidence of the cardholder's status and work permission. Likewise, nonimmigrants licensed to be used with a particular employer 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 a Work Authorization Document may request one with Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization. Sometimes, the preliminary ask for work permission must be submitted with the application for the underlying status.

Typically, a candidate should include the following products for an initial request:

- 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, applicants should submit other specific supporting files depending upon the certifying basis of eligibility. Additionally, specific initial I-765 demands get submitted with the main application.

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

Applicants that prepare Form I-765 through CitizenPath's service also get individualized filing instructions. The filing instructions will be based upon your particular scenario and will describe exactly what documents 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 choose the "renewal" option. Generally, you need to not file for a renewal EAD more than 180 days before your newest EAD expires.

Replacement

You may replace your Employment Authorization Document if your latest EAD is lost, stolen or ruined. File a brand-new Form I-765 and choose the "replacement" choice. If you did not receive an EAD that USCIS sent by mail, you can send an inquiry on non-delivery of a card.