Home" What is a Work 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) problems to certain 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 understood as Form I-766.

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

Eligibility for an Employment Authorization Document

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

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Permanent residents (green card holders) do not require an Employment Authorization Document. The permit is evidence of the cardholder's status and work permission. Likewise, nonimmigrants authorized to be used with a particular company do not require 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 qualified for an Employment Authorization Document might request one with Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization. In many cases, the initial ask for work permission should be sent with the application for the underlying status.

Typically, an applicant should include the following items for an initial demand:

- Form I-765

USCIS costs

- Copy of Form I-94 Arrival/Departure Record

- Two passport-style images

- Proof of eligibility


The list above is a generalization. To put it simply, candidates need to send other specific supporting documents depending on the qualifying basis of eligibility. Additionally, particular preliminary I-765 requests get sent with the primary application.

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

Applicants that prepare Form I-765 through CitizenPath's service likewise get individualized filing instructions. The filing guidelines will be based on your specific scenario and will explain precisely what documents to send with Form I-765.

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Renewal

You might restore your Employment Authorization Document if you are still qualified for work authorization. File a new Form I-765 and choose the "renewal" choice. Generally, you need to not submit for a renewal EAD more than 180 days before your latest EAD ends.

Replacement

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