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) issues to specific certifying foreign nationals to work in the United States. Many individuals describe 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 individual licensed to work and might consist of the individual's fingerprint. A foreign nationwide who has an EAD normally has open-market employment authorization, however there are exceptions. The card (Form I-766) is a legitimate I-9 file for companies.

EAD Validity Period

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

Eligibility for an Employment Authorization Document

There are essentially two different kinds of nonimmigrants who might be qualified to ask for an EAD. Certain foreign nationals are licensed to operate in the United States based on their migration status. Although they are already authorized to work, they might need evidence of that benefit. Examples consist of asylees and refugees. Other foreign nationals are inside the U.S. however require to ask for unique authorization to accept employment. Examples consist of adjustment of status applicants, DACA, asylum applicants, and certain trainees.

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Permanent citizens (green card holders) do not require an Employment Authorization Document. The permit is evidence of the cardholder's status and work permission. Likewise, nonimmigrants authorized to be utilized with a specific 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 an Employment Authorization Document might ask for one with Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization. Sometimes, the initial ask for work authorization must be submitted with the application for the underlying status.

Typically, an applicant should include the following products for a preliminary request:

- Form I-765

USCIS charges

- Copy of Form I-94 Arrival/Departure Record

- Two passport-style images

- Proof of eligibility


The list above is a generalization. In other words, applicants should send other particular supporting documents depending on the certifying basis of eligibility. Additionally, certain preliminary I-765 requests get submitted with the main 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 also get tailored filing instructions. The filing instructions will be based on your particular circumstance and will describe precisely what documents to send with Form I-765.

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Renewal

You may renew your Employment Authorization Document if you are still eligible for work permission. File a new Form I-765 and select the "renewal" alternative. Generally, you need 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 ruined. File a brand-new Form I-765 and select the "replacement" choice. If you did not get an EAD that USCIS mailed, you can submit a query on non-delivery of a card.