Home" What is an Employment 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) issues to certain qualifying foreign nationals to work in the United States. Lots of people refer to the card as a work permit. At USCIS, the Employment Authorization Document is called Form I-766.

The EAD card includes a photo of the private authorized to work and might consist of the person's fingerprint. A foreign nationwide who has an EAD typically has open-market work permission, however there are exceptions. The card (Form I-766) is a legitimate I-9 document for companies.

EAD Validity Period

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

Eligibility for a Work Authorization Document

There are fundamentally two various types 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 currently authorized to work, they might require evidence of that benefit. Examples consist of asylees and refugees. Other foreign nationals are inside the U.S. but require to ask for special permission to accept employment. Examples include adjustment of status candidates, DACA, asylum candidates, and certain trainees.

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Permanent residents (green card holders) do not need a Work Authorization Document. The permit is evidence of the cardholder's status and work permission. Likewise, nonimmigrants licensed to be employed with a particular company do not need 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 an Employment Authorization Document might ask for one with Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization. In many cases, the preliminary demand for work permission must be submitted with the application for the underlying status.

Typically, a candidate ought to include the following products for an initial demand:

- 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, applicants need to submit other specific supporting files depending on the qualifying basis of eligibility. Additionally, particular preliminary I-765 demands get submitted with the main application.

Mistakes on your Form I-765 can trigger costly hold-ups or a denial.

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

RECOMMENDED: How to Request a U.S. Work Permit

Renewal

You might renew your Employment Authorization Document if you are still qualified for work permission. File a brand-new Form I-765 and pick the "renewal" alternative. Generally, you must not submit for a renewal EAD more than 180 days before your newest EAD expires.

Replacement

You might replace your Employment Authorization Document if your latest EAD is lost, stolen or damaged. 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 an inquiry on non-delivery of a card.