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) problems to certain 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 called Form I-766.

The EAD card consists of a photo of the individual authorized to work and might include the person's fingerprint. A foreign national who has an EAD usually has open-market employment authorization, however 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 legitimate until it's expiration date. Depending upon the person's immigration status, USCIS generally problems cards for a two-year period or less. However, particular EADs held by individuals with Temporary Protected Status (TPS) and other designated classifications may be instantly extended beyond the validity date on the card.

Eligibility for a Work Authorization Document

There are basically two various kinds 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 currently licensed to work, they might need evidence of that benefit. Examples consist of asylees and refugees. Other foreign nationals are inside the U.S. but require to ask for special consent to accept work. Examples consist of change of status candidates, DACA, asylum hunters, and particular trainees.

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Permanent locals (green card holders) do not need an Employment Authorization Document. The green card is evidence of the cardholder's status and work authorization. Likewise, nonimmigrants authorized to be used with a specific employer 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 a Work Authorization Document may ask for one with Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization. Sometimes, the initial ask for work authorization must be submitted with the application for the underlying status.

Typically, an applicant should 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. To put it simply, applicants need to send other particular supporting documents depending on the certifying basis of eligibility. Additionally, particular initial I-765 demands get submitted with the main application.

Mistakes on your Form I-765 can trigger costly hold-ups or a rejection.

Applicants that prepare Form I-765 through CitizenPath's service also get personalized filing directions. The filing instructions will be based upon your specific situation 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 eligible for work authorization. File a brand-new Form I-765 and pick the "renewal" choice. Generally, you should not apply for a renewal EAD more than 180 days before your latest EAD ends.

Replacement

You may change your Employment Authorization Document if your most recent EAD is lost, stolen or ruined. File a new Form I-765 and select the "replacement" option. If you did not get an EAD that USCIS sent by mail, you can send an inquiry on non-delivery of a card.