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

What is an Employment Authorization Document (Form I-766)?

May 9, 2021

An Employment 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 permit. At USCIS, the Employment Authorization Document is referred to as Form I-766.

The EAD card contains a photo of the individual authorized to work and may include the individual's fingerprint. A foreign national who has an EAD normally has open-market employment permission, but there are exceptions. The card (Form I-766) is a legitimate I-9 document for companies.

EAD Validity Period

Generally, an Employment Authorization Card is only legitimate until it's expiration date. Depending on the person's immigration status, USCIS generally concerns 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 an Employment Authorization Document

There are basically 2 various kinds of nonimmigrants who may be eligible to request an EAD. Certain foreign nationals are authorized to work in the United States based on their migration status. Although they are already licensed to work, they may require evidence of that opportunity. Examples include asylees and refugees. Other foreign nationals are inside the U.S. however need to request unique authorization to accept work. Examples consist of change of status candidates, DACA, asylum hunters, and certain students.

RECOMMENDED: List of Eligibility Categories for EAD

Permanent citizens (permit holders) do not require a Work Authorization Document. The green card is proof of the cardholder's status and work permission. Likewise, nonimmigrants authorized to be utilized with a particular employer do not require 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 might request one with Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization. In many cases, the initial demand for work authorization should be sent with the application for the underlying status.

Typically, an applicant needs to include the following items 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, applicants must send other particular supporting files depending on the qualifying basis of eligibility. Additionally, certain preliminary I-765 requests get submitted with the primary application.

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

Applicants that prepare Form I-765 through CitizenPath's service likewise get tailored filing instructions. The filing instructions will be based on your particular circumstance and will describe precisely what files to send with Form I-765.

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Renewal

You might restore your Employment Authorization Document if you are still qualified for work permission. File a brand-new Form I-765 and pick the "renewal" choice. Generally, you need to not apply for a renewal EAD more than 180 days before your most recent EAD ends.

Replacement

You might replace your Employment Authorization Document if your newest EAD is lost, stolen or destroyed. File a new Form I-765 and choose the "replacement" alternative. If you did not receive an EAD that USCIS sent by mail, you can submit a questions on non-delivery of a card.