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 work in the United States. Many individuals describe the card as a work license. At USCIS, the Employment Authorization Document is understood as Form I-766.

The EAD card includes a picture of the individual licensed to work and might consist of the individual's finger print. A foreign nationwide who has an EAD normally has open-market work permission, but there are exceptions. The card (Form I-766) is a valid I-9 document for employers.

EAD Validity Period

Generally, an Employment Authorization Card is only legitimate till it's expiration date. Depending on the individual's migration status, USCIS typically issues cards for a two-year duration or less. However, specific 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 essentially 2 various types of nonimmigrants who may be eligible to request an EAD. Certain foreign nationals are authorized to operate in the United States based upon their immigration status. Although they are currently authorized to work, they may require proof of that privilege. Examples include asylees and refugees. Other foreign nationals are inside the U.S. however require to request unique permission to accept work. Examples consist of adjustment of status candidates, DACA, asylum candidates, and certain students.

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Permanent locals (permit holders) do not need a Work Authorization Document. The permit is proof of the cardholder's status and work authorization. Likewise, nonimmigrants authorized to be used with a specific 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 eligible for an Employment Authorization Document might request one with Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization. Sometimes, the initial demand for work permission must be sent with the application for the underlying status.

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

- Form I-765

USCIS fees

- Copy of Form I-94 Arrival/Departure Record

- Two passport-style images

- Proof of eligibility


The list above is a generalization. To put it simply, candidates must send other specific supporting files depending on the qualifying basis of eligibility. Additionally, certain initial I-765 requests get sent with the primary application.

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

Applicants that prepare Form I-765 through CitizenPath's service likewise receive individualized filing directions. The filing directions will be based upon your specific scenario and will describe precisely what files to send 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 new Form I-765 and pick the "renewal" choice. Generally, you should not file for a renewal EAD more than 180 days before your newest EAD expires.

Replacement

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