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

Home" What is a Work 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) issues to certain certifying foreign nationals to operate in the United States. Lots of people refer to the card as a work authorization. At USCIS, the Employment Authorization Document is referred to as Form I-766.

The EAD card consists of a photo of the individual authorized to work and might consist of the person's fingerprint. A foreign nationwide who has an EAD generally has open-market work authorization, however there are exceptions. The card (Form I-766) is a legitimate I-9 file for employers.

EAD Validity Period

Generally, an Employment Authorization Card is only legitimate until it's expiration date. Depending upon the person's immigration 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 categories may be automatically extended beyond the validity date on the card.

Eligibility for an Employment Authorization Document

There are essentially two different kinds of nonimmigrants who may be qualified to request an EAD. Certain foreign nationals are authorized to work in the United States based on their immigration status. Although they are already licensed to work, they may need evidence of that benefit. Examples include asylees and refugees. Other foreign nationals are inside the U.S. however need to ask for unique authorization to accept work. Examples consist of modification of status applicants, DACA, asylum hunters, and particular trainees.

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Permanent homeowners (permit holders) do not need a Work Authorization Document. The green card is proof of the cardholder's status and work authorization. Likewise, nonimmigrants licensed to be employed with a particular 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 may request one with Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization. In some cases, the initial request for work permission should be submitted with the application for the underlying status.

Typically, a candidate ought to include the following products for a preliminary 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. In other words, candidates need to send other particular supporting files depending on the qualifying basis of eligibility. Additionally, specific initial I-765 demands get submitted with the primary application.

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

Applicants that prepare Form I-765 through CitizenPath's service also get personalized filing instructions. The filing instructions will be based upon your particular circumstance and will discuss exactly what files 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 authorization. File a brand-new Form I-765 and pick the "renewal" option. Generally, you must not declare a renewal EAD more than 180 days before your latest EAD expires.

Replacement

You might replace your Employment Authorization Document if your most recent EAD is lost, stolen or destroyed. File a brand-new Form I-765 and choose the "replacement" choice. If you did not get an EAD that USCIS mailed, you can send an inquiry on non-delivery of a card.