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

What is a Work 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 people describe the card as a work permit. At USCIS, the Employment Authorization Document is understood as Form I-766.

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

EAD Validity Period

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

Eligibility for an Employment Authorization Document

There are fundamentally two different types of nonimmigrants who may be qualified to ask for an EAD. Certain foreign nationals are authorized to operate in the United States based on their migration status. Although they are already licensed to work, they may need proof of that advantage. Examples include asylees and refugees. Other foreign nationals are inside the U.S. but require to request special permission to accept employment. Examples include adjustment of status applicants, DACA, asylum seekers, and particular trainees.

RECOMMENDED: List of Eligibility Categories for EAD

Permanent homeowners (permit holders) do not need a Work Authorization Document. The green card is evidence of the cardholder's status and work authorization. Likewise, nonimmigrants authorized to be used with a specific company do not require 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 a Work Authorization Document may request one with Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization. In some cases, the preliminary demand for work permission need to be sent with the application for the underlying status.

Typically, an applicant should consist of the following products for an initial request:

- Form I-765

USCIS charges

- Copy of Form I-94 Arrival/Departure Record

- Two passport-style photos

- Proof of eligibility


The list above is a generalization. To put it simply, candidates must submit other particular supporting files depending upon the certifying basis of eligibility. Additionally, specific preliminary I-765 demands get submitted with the main application.

Mistakes on your Form I-765 can trigger pricey delays or a rejection.

Applicants that prepare Form I-765 through CitizenPath's service likewise get personalized filing directions. The filing guidelines will be based on your particular situation and will describe exactly what files to send out with Form I-765.

RECOMMENDED: How to Obtain a U.S. Work Permit

Renewal

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

Replacement

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