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

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

May 9, 2021

An Employment Authorization Document (EAD) is an identification card that U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) concerns to certain certifying foreign nationals to work in the United States. Many people refer to the card as a work license. At USCIS, the Employment Authorization Document is called Form I-766.

The EAD card contains a picture of the private 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 valid I-9 file for employers.

EAD Validity Period

Generally, a Work Authorization Card is just valid until it's expiration date. Depending upon the individual's migration status, USCIS typically problems cards for a two-year duration or less. However, certain EADs held by individuals with Temporary Protected Status (TPS) and other designated classifications might be automatically extended beyond the credibility date on the card.

Eligibility for a Work Authorization Document

There are fundamentally 2 different types of nonimmigrants who may be qualified to request an EAD. Certain foreign nationals are licensed to operate in the United States based on their immigration status. Although they are currently licensed to work, they may need proof of that benefit. Examples consist of asylees and refugees. Other foreign nationals are inside the U.S. however require to request unique consent to accept work. Examples include modification of status applicants, DACA, asylum candidates, and specific students.

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Permanent locals (permit holders) do not require a Work Authorization Document. The permit is evidence of the cardholder's status and work permission. Likewise, nonimmigrants authorized to be utilized with a specific 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. In some cases, the initial demand for work authorization must be sent with the application for the underlying status.

Typically, a candidate needs to consist of the following items for a preliminary request:

- Form I-765

USCIS charges

- Copy of Form I-94 Arrival/Departure Record

- Two passport-style images

- Proof of eligibility


The list above is a generalization. In other words, applicants need to send other specific supporting files depending on the qualifying basis of eligibility. Additionally, specific initial I-765 demands get submitted with the main application.

Mistakes on your Form I-765 can cause pricey hold-ups or a rejection.

Applicants that prepare Form I-765 through CitizenPath's service also get tailored filing directions. The filing directions will be based upon your specific situation and will discuss precisely what files to send with Form I-765.

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Renewal

You may renew your Employment Authorization Document if you are still qualified for work authorization. File a brand-new Form I-765 and select the "renewal" alternative. Generally, you need to not file for a renewal EAD more than 180 days before your newest EAD ends.

Replacement

You might change your Employment Authorization Document if your most recent EAD is lost, taken or destroyed. File a new Form I-765 and select the "replacement" option. If you did not get an EAD that USCIS sent by mail, you can send a query on non-delivery of a card.