Home" What is a Work 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 specific certifying foreign nationals to work in the United States. Many people describe the card as a work license. At USCIS, the Employment Authorization Document is called Form I-766.

The EAD card consists of a picture of the specific authorized to work and may consist of the person's finger print. A foreign nationwide who has an EAD generally has open-market work authorization, however there are exceptions. The card (Form I-766) is a valid I-9 file for companies.

EAD Validity Period

Generally, a Work Authorization Card is just valid until it's expiration date. Depending upon the individual's immigration status, USCIS usually issues cards for a two-year period or less. However, particular 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 an Employment Authorization Document

There are basically two various types of nonimmigrants who may be qualified to request an EAD. Certain foreign nationals are licensed to work in the United States based upon their immigration status. Although they are already licensed to work, they might require proof of that benefit. Examples consist of asylees and refugees. Other foreign nationals are inside the U.S. however require to ask for special consent to accept employment. Examples consist of adjustment of status applicants, DACA, asylum hunters, and particular students.

RECOMMENDED: List of Eligibility Categories for EAD

Permanent citizens (permit holders) do not need an Employment Authorization Document. The permit is evidence of the cardholder's status and work authorization. Likewise, nonimmigrants licensed to be employed with a particular employer do not need an EAD. Examples of nonimmigrants with this status consist of H-1B and TN visa.

RECOMMENDED: U.S. Work Visa Types for Foreign Nationals

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. Sometimes, the preliminary request for work authorization should be sent with the application for the underlying status.

Typically, an applicant needs to include the following items for a preliminary request:

- Form I-765

USCIS costs

- 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 should submit other particular supporting documents depending upon the certifying basis of eligibility. Additionally, certain initial I-765 demands get submitted with the primary application.

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

Applicants that prepare Form I-765 through CitizenPath's service likewise receive individualized filing directions. The filing guidelines will be based on your particular situation and will explain precisely what documents to send with Form I-765.

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

Renewal

You might renew your Employment Authorization Document if you are still eligible for work authorization. File a new Form I-765 and select the "renewal" option. Generally, you ought to not declare 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 damaged. File a new Form I-765 and choose the "replacement" alternative. If you did not get an EAD that USCIS sent by mail, you can send a query on non-delivery of a card.