Home" What is a Work Authorization Document (Form I-766)?

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

The EAD card contains a photograph of the specific authorized to work and may consist of the person's finger print. A foreign nationwide who has an EAD typically has open-market employment permission, however there are exceptions. The card (Form I-766) is a valid I-9 document for companies.

EAD Validity Period

Generally, an Employment Authorization Card is just legitimate until it's expiration date. Depending upon the individual's immigration status, USCIS generally problems cards for a two-year period or less. However, certain EADs held by individuals with Temporary Protected Status (TPS) and other designated categories may be automatically extended beyond the credibility date on the card.

Eligibility for a Work Authorization Document

There are essentially two various kinds of nonimmigrants who may be qualified to request an EAD. Certain foreign nationals are authorized to operate in the United States based on their immigration status. Although they are already authorized to work, they may require evidence of that opportunity. Examples consist of asylees and refugees. Other foreign nationals are inside the U.S. but need to ask for special approval to accept work. Examples consist of change of status applicants, DACA, asylum seekers, and certain trainees.

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Permanent citizens (permit holders) do not require a Work Authorization Document. The permit is evidence of the cardholder's status and work authorization. Likewise, nonimmigrants licensed to be employed with a particular company 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 qualified for a Work Authorization Document may ask for one with Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization. Sometimes, the initial request for work authorization need to be sent with the application for the underlying status.

Typically, a candidate ought to consist of the following items for an initial request:

- Form I-765

USCIS fees

- Copy of Form I-94 Arrival/Departure Record

- Two passport-style images

- Proof of eligibility


The list above is a generalization. Simply put, candidates must send other particular 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 pricey hold-ups or a denial.

Applicants that prepare Form I-765 through CitizenPath's service also get personalized filing directions. The filing instructions will be based on your specific scenario and will discuss exactly what documents to send out 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" choice. Generally, you need to not declare a renewal EAD more than 180 days before your latest EAD expires.

Replacement

You may replace your Employment Authorization Document if your latest EAD is lost, taken or ruined. File a brand-new Form I-765 and choose 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.