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

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

May 9, 2021

A Work Authorization Document (EAD) is an identification card that U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) issues to particular qualifying foreign nationals to work in the United States. Lots of people describe the card as a work permit. At USCIS, the Employment Authorization Document is referred to as Form I-766.

The EAD card consists of a photograph of the individual licensed to work and might include the individual's finger print. A foreign national who has an EAD normally has open-market work authorization, but there are exceptions. The card (Form I-766) is a legitimate I-9 file for companies.

EAD Validity Period

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

Eligibility for a Work Authorization Document

There are basically 2 various types of nonimmigrants who may be eligible to ask for an EAD. Certain foreign nationals are licensed to work in the United States based upon their immigration status. Although they are already licensed to work, they might require evidence of that advantage. Examples consist of asylees and refugees. Other foreign nationals are inside the U.S. but need to ask for unique permission to accept work. Examples include change of status applicants, DACA, asylum hunters, and particular trainees.

RECOMMENDED: List of Eligibility Categories for EAD

Permanent homeowners (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 utilized with a particular employer do not require an EAD. Examples of nonimmigrants with this status consist of H-1B and TN visa.

RECOMMENDED: U.S. Work Visa Types for Foreign Nationals

How to Request an EAD

Foreign nationals who are eligible for a Work Authorization Document might request one with Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization. Sometimes, the initial ask for work permission need to be submitted with the application for the underlying status.

Typically, an applicant needs to include the following products for a preliminary demand:

- 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, candidates must submit other particular supporting files 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 cause costly delays or a rejection.

Applicants that prepare Form I-765 through CitizenPath's service likewise get customized filing directions. The filing directions will be based on your specific scenario and will discuss precisely what documents to send with Form I-765.

RECOMMENDED: How to Request a U.S. Work Permit

Renewal

You may renew your Employment Authorization Document if you are still qualified for work authorization. File a brand-new Form I-765 and choose the "renewal" option. Generally, you should not apply for a renewal EAD more than 180 days before your newest EAD expires.

Replacement

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