Home" What is a Work 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 particular certifying foreign nationals to operate in the United States. Lots of people refer to the card as a work permit. At USCIS, the Employment Authorization Document is referred to as Form I-766.

The EAD card includes a photo of the individual licensed to work and may include the person's finger print. A foreign nationwide who has an EAD usually has open-market employment permission, however there are exceptions. The card (Form I-766) is a legitimate I-9 document for employers.

EAD Validity Period

Generally, an Employment Authorization Card is just legitimate until it's expiration date. Depending upon the person's immigration status, USCIS normally issues cards for a two-year duration or less. However, particular EADs held by individuals with Temporary Protected Status (TPS) and other designated categories might be instantly extended beyond the credibility date on the card.

Eligibility for a Work Authorization Document

There are fundamentally 2 different types of nonimmigrants who may be qualified to request an EAD. Certain foreign nationals are licensed to operate in the United States based on their migration status. Although they are currently authorized to work, they may require evidence of that advantage. Examples include asylees and refugees. Other foreign nationals are inside the U.S. however require to request special permission to accept work. Examples include adjustment of status applicants, DACA, asylum candidates, and certain students.

RECOMMENDED: List of Eligibility Categories for EAD

Permanent citizens (green card holders) do not require an Employment Authorization Document. The permit is proof of the cardholder's status and work authorization. Likewise, nonimmigrants licensed to be used with a particular employer 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 an Employment Authorization Document might ask for one with Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization. In some cases, the preliminary ask for work authorization should be sent with the application for the underlying status.

Typically, an applicant should include the following products 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. Simply put, candidates must send other particular supporting documents depending upon the qualifying basis of eligibility. Additionally, certain 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 likewise receive tailored filing directions. The filing instructions will be based on your specific situation and will explain precisely what files to send with Form I-765.

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Renewal

You might renew your Employment Authorization Document if you are still qualified for work permission. File a new Form I-765 and select 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 replace your Employment Authorization Document if your latest EAD is lost, taken or ruined. File a new Form I-765 and select the "replacement" alternative. If you did not get an EAD that USCIS mailed, you can send a query on non-delivery of a card.