Home" What is an Employment 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) issues to certain certifying foreign nationals to operate in the United States. Many people describe the card as a work license. At USCIS, the Employment Authorization Document is referred to as Form I-766.

The EAD card contains a picture of the individual licensed to work and might include the individual's fingerprint. A foreign national who has an EAD generally has open-market work permission, 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 only valid until it's expiration date. Depending on the person's migration status, USCIS normally concerns cards for a two-year period or less. However, particular EADs held by people with Temporary Protected Status (TPS) and other designated categories might be immediately extended beyond the credibility date on the card.

Eligibility for an Employment Authorization Document

There are basically two different kinds of nonimmigrants who may be qualified to ask for an EAD. Certain foreign nationals are authorized to work in the United States based upon their migration status. Although they are currently licensed to work, they may require evidence of that privilege. Examples consist of asylees and refugees. Other foreign nationals are inside the U.S. but require to ask for unique authorization to accept work. Examples include adjustment of status applicants, DACA, asylum candidates, and specific students.

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Permanent locals (green card holders) do not require a Work Authorization Document. The permit is proof of the cardholder's status and work permission. Likewise, nonimmigrants licensed to be utilized with a particular employer 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 may ask for one with Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization. In some cases, the initial demand for work permission need to be submitted with the application for the underlying status.

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

- Form I-765

USCIS charges

- 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, particular preliminary I-765 requests get sent with the main application.

Mistakes on your Form I-765 can cause costly delays or a rejection.

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

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Renewal

You might renew your Employment Authorization Document if you are still qualified for work permission. File a new Form I-765 and select the "renewal" choice. Generally, you need to not file for a renewal EAD more than 180 days before your most recent EAD ends.

Replacement

You might change your Employment Authorization Document if your most recent EAD is lost, taken or damaged. File a brand-new Form I-765 and choose the "replacement" alternative. If you did not receive an EAD that USCIS sent by mail, you can submit a questions on non-delivery of a card.