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) issues to certain qualifying foreign nationals to work in the United States. Many individuals refer to the card as a work permit. At USCIS, the Employment Authorization Document is known as Form I-766.

The EAD card consists of a picture of the private licensed to work and may consist of the person's finger print. A foreign national who has an EAD typically has open-market work authorization, but 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 just valid until it's expiration date. Depending upon the individual's immigration status, USCIS usually problems cards for a two-year duration or less. However, particular EADs held by people with Temporary Protected Status (TPS) and other designated categories may be instantly extended beyond the credibility date on the card.

Eligibility for a Work Authorization Document

There are basically 2 various types of nonimmigrants who might be eligible to request an EAD. Certain foreign nationals are licensed to operate in the United States based upon their migration status. Although they are already licensed to work, they might need evidence of that opportunity. Examples include asylees and refugees. Other foreign nationals are inside the U.S. but need to request special authorization to accept employment. Examples include modification of status applicants, DACA, asylum applicants, and certain students.

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Permanent residents (green card holders) do not require a Work Authorization Document. The permit is proof of the cardholder's status and work authorization. Likewise, nonimmigrants licensed to be employed with a specific employer do not need 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 ask for one with Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization. In some cases, the initial demand for work authorization should be sent with the application for the underlying status.

Typically, a candidate needs to include the following items for an initial demand:

- Form I-765

USCIS costs

- Copy of Form I-94 Arrival/Departure Record

- Two passport-style photos

- Proof of eligibility


The list above is a generalization. Simply put, applicants need to send other specific supporting documents depending upon the qualifying basis of eligibility. Additionally, particular preliminary I-765 demands get sent with the primary application.

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

Applicants that prepare Form I-765 through CitizenPath's service likewise receive individualized filing instructions. The filing guidelines will be based upon your particular circumstance and will describe precisely what documents 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 authorization. File a new Form I-765 and select the "renewal" alternative. Generally, you ought to not submit for a renewal EAD more than 180 days before your most recent EAD expires.

Replacement

You might replace your Employment Authorization Document if your most current EAD is lost, stolen or destroyed. 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 questions on non-delivery of a card.