Home" What is an Employment 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) problems to particular certifying foreign nationals to operate in the United States. Many people describe the card as a work license. At USCIS, the Employment Authorization Document is understood as Form I-766.

The EAD card consists of a photograph of the individual authorized to work and might include the individual's fingerprint. A foreign national who has an EAD generally has open-market employment permission, however there are exceptions. The card (Form I-766) is a legitimate I-9 file for companies.

EAD Validity Period

Generally, an Employment Authorization Card is just valid till it's expiration date. Depending on the person's migration status, USCIS usually problems cards for a two-year period or less. However, certain EADs held by individuals with Temporary Protected Status (TPS) and other designated classifications might be immediately extended beyond the validity date on the card.

Eligibility for a Work Authorization Document

There are basically two various types of nonimmigrants who might be eligible to ask for an EAD. Certain foreign nationals are authorized to work in the United States based upon their migration status. Although they are already licensed to work, they may need evidence of that advantage. Examples include asylees and refugees. Other foreign nationals are inside the U.S. however require to request unique authorization to accept employment. Examples include change of status applicants, DACA, asylum candidates, and particular students.

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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 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 might request one with Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization. In some cases, the preliminary demand for work permission must be submitted with the application for the underlying status.

Typically, an applicant needs to consist of the following products for a preliminary request:

- 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. To put it simply, applicants need to submit other specific supporting files depending on the qualifying basis of eligibility. Additionally, certain preliminary I-765 demands get sent with the main application.

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

Applicants that prepare Form I-765 through CitizenPath's service also receive personalized filing directions. The filing directions will be based on your specific 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 permission. File a new Form I-765 and pick the "renewal" option. Generally, you ought to 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 latest EAD is lost, stolen or destroyed. File a brand-new Form I-765 and select the "replacement" alternative. If you did not receive an EAD that USCIS sent by mail, you can send a questions on non-delivery of a card.