Home" What is an Employment Authorization Document (Form I-766)?

What is an Employment Authorization Document (Form I-766)?

May 9, 2021

An Employment Authorization Document (EAD) is an identification card that U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) concerns to certain qualifying foreign nationals to operate in the United States. Many individuals refer to the card as a work authorization. At USCIS, the Employment Authorization Document is understood as Form I-766.

The EAD card consists of a photograph of the private licensed to work and may include the individual's fingerprint. A foreign national who has an EAD normally has open-market work authorization, however there are exceptions. The card (Form I-766) is a legitimate I-9 document for companies.

EAD Validity Period

Generally, an Employment Authorization Card is just valid until it's expiration date. Depending upon 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 categories may be immediately extended beyond the credibility date on the card.

Eligibility for a Work Authorization Document

There are basically two 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 migration status. Although they are currently authorized to work, they might require proof of that benefit. Examples consist of asylees and refugees. Other foreign nationals are inside the U.S. however require to request unique consent to accept employment. Examples consist of change of status applicants, DACA, asylum candidates, and particular students.

RECOMMENDED: List of Eligibility Categories for EAD

Permanent residents (permit holders) do not require an Employment Authorization Document. The permit is proof of the cardholder's status and work permission. Likewise, nonimmigrants authorized to be employed with a specific employer 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 a Work Authorization Document may ask for one with Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization. In some cases, the preliminary ask for work permission need to be submitted with the application for the underlying status.

Typically, an applicant must 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, candidates need to submit other particular supporting documents depending upon the certifying basis of eligibility. Additionally, particular preliminary I-765 demands get sent with the primary application.

Mistakes on your Form I-765 can trigger costly delays or a denial.

Applicants that prepare Form I-765 through CitizenPath's service likewise get customized filing directions. The filing directions will be based on your specific circumstance and will discuss 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 authorization. File a new Form I-765 and pick the "renewal" choice. Generally, you need to not declare a renewal EAD more than 180 days before your latest EAD ends.

Replacement

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