Home" What is a Work Authorization Document (Form I-766)?

What is a Work 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 specific certifying foreign nationals to operate in the United States. Many individuals describe the card as a work license. At USCIS, the Employment Authorization Document is understood as Form I-766.

The EAD card includes a picture of the private authorized to work and might consist of the person's fingerprint. A foreign national who has an EAD generally has open-market employment permission, but there are exceptions. The card (Form I-766) is a legitimate I-9 document for employers.

EAD Validity Period

Generally, a Work Authorization Card is only valid up until it's expiration date. Depending on the individual's immigration status, USCIS typically concerns cards for a two-year period or less. However, certain EADs held by people 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 essentially two various kinds of nonimmigrants who might be eligible to ask for an EAD. Certain foreign nationals are licensed to operate in the United States based upon their migration status. Although they are already authorized to work, they might require proof of that opportunity. Examples consist of asylees and refugees. Other foreign nationals are inside the U.S. but need to request unique consent to accept employment. Examples include modification of status applicants, DACA, asylum applicants, and specific students.

RECOMMENDED: List of Eligibility Categories for EAD

Permanent citizens (green card holders) do not need an Employment Authorization Document. The permit is proof of the cardholder's status and work authorization. Likewise, nonimmigrants licensed to be utilized with a particular company 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 eligible for an Employment Authorization Document may request one with Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization. In many cases, the preliminary request for work permission must be sent with the application for the underlying status.

Typically, a candidate needs to consist of 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. In other words, candidates must submit other specific supporting documents depending upon the certifying basis of eligibility. Additionally, certain initial I-765 demands get submitted with the main 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 personalized filing guidelines. The filing instructions will be based on your specific scenario and will describe exactly what documents to send with Form I-765.

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Renewal

You may renew your Employment Authorization Document if you are still qualified for work permission. File a brand-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 might replace your Employment Authorization Document if your newest EAD is lost, taken or destroyed. File a brand-new Form I-765 and pick the "replacement" choice. If you did not get an EAD that USCIS mailed, you can submit an inquiry on non-delivery of a card.