Home" What is a Work 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 certifying foreign nationals to work in the United States. Many people refer to the card as a work authorization. At USCIS, the Employment Authorization Document is understood as Form I-766.

The EAD card includes a photo of the private licensed to work and might include the individual's finger print. A foreign national who has an EAD typically has open-market employment authorization, however 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 valid up until it's expiration date. Depending upon the person's immigration status, USCIS generally problems cards for a two-year duration or less. However, particular EADs held by people with Temporary Protected Status (TPS) and other designated categories might be automatically extended beyond the credibility date on the card.

Eligibility for a Work Authorization Document

There are fundamentally two various types of nonimmigrants who may be eligible to request an EAD. Certain foreign nationals are licensed to operate in the United States based on their immigration status. Although they are currently licensed to work, they might require evidence of that benefit. Examples consist of asylees and refugees. Other foreign nationals are inside the U.S. but require to request unique consent to accept employment. Examples include change of status candidates, DACA, asylum hunters, and particular trainees.

RECOMMENDED: List of Eligibility Categories for EAD

Permanent locals (permit holders) do not need a Work Authorization Document. The permit is proof of the cardholder's status and work permission. Likewise, nonimmigrants licensed to be employed 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 request one with Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization. In many cases, the preliminary ask for work permission must be submitted with the application for the underlying status.

Typically, a candidate must consist of the following products for a preliminary demand:

- Form I-765

USCIS costs

- 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 should submit other specific supporting files depending on the qualifying basis of eligibility. Additionally, certain initial I-765 demands get sent with the primary application.

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

Applicants that prepare Form I-765 through CitizenPath's service likewise receive individualized filing directions. The filing guidelines will be based upon your particular situation and will describe exactly what documents to send with Form I-765.

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Renewal

You might restore your Employment Authorization Document if you are still eligible for work authorization. File a new Form I-765 and choose the "renewal" option. Generally, you must not declare a renewal EAD more than 180 days before your newest EAD expires.

Replacement

You might change your Employment Authorization Document if your newest EAD is lost, stolen or damaged. File a brand-new Form I-765 and select the "replacement" choice. If you did not get an EAD that USCIS sent by mail, you can submit a query on non-delivery of a card.