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 an identification card that U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) problems to specific qualifying foreign nationals to work in the United States. Many individuals refer to the card as a work license. At USCIS, the Employment Authorization Document is referred to as Form I-766.

The EAD card includes a photo of the private authorized to work and might consist of the individual'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 valid I-9 file for employers.

EAD Validity Period

Generally, a Work Authorization Card is just legitimate till it's expiration date. Depending upon the person's migration status, USCIS normally problems cards for a two-year duration or less. However, certain EADs held by individuals with Temporary Protected Status (TPS) and other designated classifications might be automatically extended beyond the validity date on the card.

Eligibility for an Employment Authorization Document

There are essentially 2 various types of nonimmigrants who may be eligible to ask for an EAD. Certain foreign nationals are authorized to work in the United States based on their immigration status. Although they are already authorized to work, they might need evidence of that benefit. Examples include asylees and refugees. Other foreign nationals are inside the U.S. however need to ask for special authorization to accept employment. Examples include modification of status applicants, DACA, asylum hunters, and specific trainees.

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Permanent citizens (permit holders) do not need a Work Authorization Document. The permit is proof of the cardholder's status and work permission. Likewise, nonimmigrants authorized to be utilized 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. Sometimes, the initial ask for work permission should be sent with the application for the underlying status.

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

- Form I-765

USCIS charges

- Copy of Form I-94 Arrival/Departure Record

- Two passport-style photos

- Proof of eligibility


The list above is a generalization. Simply put, candidates should send other specific supporting files depending on the qualifying basis of eligibility. Additionally, particular preliminary I-765 requests get submitted with the main application.

Mistakes on your Form I-765 can cause pricey hold-ups or a denial.

Applicants that prepare Form I-765 through CitizenPath's service also receive customized filing directions. The filing guidelines will be based on your specific situation and will describe exactly what documents to send out with Form I-765.

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Renewal

You may renew your Employment Authorization Document if you are still qualified for work authorization. File a new Form I-765 and pick the "renewal" option. Generally, you ought to not declare a renewal EAD more than 180 days before your newest EAD expires.

Replacement

You may replace your Employment Authorization Document if your newest EAD is lost, stolen or ruined. File a brand-new Form I-765 and select the "replacement" alternative. If you did not receive an EAD that USCIS mailed, you can submit a questions on non-delivery of a card.