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) problems to certain qualifying 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 known as Form I-766.

The EAD card includes a photo of the specific authorized to work and may consist of the individual's finger print. A foreign nationwide who has an EAD usually has open-market employment authorization, but there are exceptions. The card (Form I-766) is a valid I-9 document for companies.

EAD Validity Period

Generally, an Employment Authorization Card is only legitimate up until it's expiration date. Depending on the individual's immigration status, USCIS generally issues cards for a two-year period or less. However, particular EADs held by people with Temporary Protected Status (TPS) and other designated classifications might be instantly extended beyond the credibility date on the card.

Eligibility for an Employment Authorization Document

There are fundamentally two various kinds of nonimmigrants who may be eligible to ask for an EAD. Certain foreign nationals are licensed to operate in the United States based upon their immigration status. Although they are already licensed to work, they might need evidence of that privilege. Examples consist of asylees and refugees. Other foreign nationals are inside the U.S. however require to ask for special authorization to accept work. Examples consist of adjustment of status applicants, DACA, asylum hunters, and specific students.

RECOMMENDED: List of Eligibility Categories for EAD

Permanent locals (permit holders) do not need an Employment Authorization Document. The permit is proof of the cardholder's status and work permission. Likewise, nonimmigrants licensed to be used with a specific employer do not require an EAD. Examples of nonimmigrants with this status include H-1B and TN visa.

RECOMMENDED: U.S. Work Visa Types for Foreign Nationals

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. Sometimes, the preliminary ask for work permission must be sent with the application for the underlying status.

Typically, a candidate ought to include the following items for a preliminary demand:

- Form I-765

USCIS fees

- Copy of Form I-94 Arrival/Departure Record

- Two passport-style photos

- Proof of eligibility


The list above is a generalization. In other words, candidates should submit other specific supporting documents depending upon the qualifying basis of eligibility. Additionally, specific preliminary I-765 requests get sent with the primary 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 get tailored filing directions. The filing directions will be based upon your specific circumstance and will explain exactly what documents to send with Form I-765.

RECOMMENDED: How to Look for a U.S. Work Permit

Renewal

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

Replacement

You may change your Employment Authorization Document if your latest EAD is lost, taken or ruined. File a new Form I-765 and pick the "replacement" alternative. If you did not receive an EAD that USCIS mailed, you can send a query on non-delivery of a card.