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) concerns to certain qualifying foreign nationals to work in the United States. Many individuals refer to the card as a work authorization. At USCIS, the Employment Authorization Document is called Form I-766.

The EAD card consists of a picture of the individual licensed to work and may include the person's fingerprint. A foreign nationwide who has an EAD typically has open-market employment authorization, however there are exceptions. The card (Form I-766) is a valid I-9 document for employers.

EAD Validity Period

Generally, a Work Authorization Card is only legitimate till it's expiration date. Depending on the individual's migration status, USCIS usually problems cards for a two-year period or less. However, particular EADs held by people with Temporary Protected Status (TPS) and other designated classifications may be automatically extended beyond the validity date on the card.

Eligibility for a Work Authorization Document

There are essentially two various kinds of nonimmigrants who may be qualified to ask for an EAD. Certain foreign nationals are licensed to operate in the United States based upon their immigration status. Although they are already authorized to work, they might need proof of that benefit. Examples include asylees and refugees. Other foreign nationals are inside the U.S. but require to request unique permission to accept work. Examples include change of status applicants, DACA, asylum candidates, and particular students.

RECOMMENDED: List of Eligibility Categories for EAD

Permanent homeowners (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 used with a specific employer 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 authorization must be sent with the application for the underlying status.

Typically, a candidate needs to include the following products for a preliminary demand:

- 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. Simply put, applicants should submit other specific supporting files depending on the qualifying basis of eligibility. Additionally, certain initial I-765 demands get sent with the main application.

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

Applicants that prepare Form I-765 through CitizenPath's service likewise receive tailored filing instructions. The filing guidelines will be based upon your specific scenario and will describe exactly what files to send out with Form I-765.

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Renewal

You may restore your Employment Authorization Document if you are still eligible for work permission. File a brand-new Form I-765 and select the "renewal" choice. Generally, you ought to not declare a renewal EAD more than 180 days before your newest EAD expires.

Replacement

You may change your Employment Authorization Document if your latest EAD is lost, taken or damaged. File a brand-new Form I-765 and select the "replacement" option. If you did not receive an EAD that USCIS mailed, you can send a query on non-delivery of a card.