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

What is an Employment 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 particular qualifying foreign nationals to work in the United States. Lots of people describe the card as a work license. At USCIS, the Employment Authorization Document is understood as Form I-766.

The EAD card includes a photo of the individual licensed to work and may consist of the person's fingerprint. A foreign national who has an EAD typically has open-market work authorization, 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 legitimate till it's expiration date. Depending on the individual's immigration status, USCIS typically concerns cards for a two-year period or less. However, specific EADs held by people with Temporary Protected Status (TPS) and other designated classifications might be instantly extended beyond the credibility date on the card.

Eligibility for an Employment Authorization Document

There are fundamentally 2 various kinds of nonimmigrants who may be qualified to request an EAD. Certain foreign nationals are licensed to work in the United States based upon their migration status. Although they are already authorized to work, they might need evidence of that opportunity. Examples include asylees and refugees. Other foreign nationals are inside the U.S. however need to ask for special permission to accept work. Examples consist of adjustment of status applicants, DACA, asylum applicants, and particular trainees.

RECOMMENDED: List of Eligibility Categories for EAD

Permanent citizens (permit holders) do not need an Employment Authorization Document. The green card is proof of the cardholder's status and work permission. Likewise, nonimmigrants licensed to be utilized with a specific company 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 eligible for a Work Authorization Document might request one with Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization. In some cases, the preliminary ask for work permission should be sent with the application for the underlying status.

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

- Form I-765

USCIS charges

- Copy of Form I-94 Arrival/Departure Record

- Two passport-style photos

- Proof of eligibility


The list above is a generalization. In other words, applicants should submit other specific supporting documents depending on the certifying basis of eligibility. Additionally, particular preliminary I-765 requests get submitted with the primary application.

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

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

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Renewal

You may restore your Employment Authorization Document if you are still qualified for work authorization. File a brand-new Form I-765 and select the "renewal" option. Generally, you must not declare a renewal EAD more than 180 days before your latest EAD ends.

Replacement

You might replace your Employment Authorization Document if your latest EAD is lost, taken or damaged. File a new Form I-765 and pick the "replacement" alternative. If you did not receive an EAD that USCIS mailed, you can send a questions on non-delivery of a card.