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) issues 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 contains a photo of the private licensed to work and may consist of the person's finger print. A foreign nationwide who has an EAD usually has open-market work permission, however 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 migration status, USCIS generally problems cards for a two-year duration or less. However, certain EADs held by people with Temporary Protected Status (TPS) and other designated classifications might be automatically extended beyond the validity date on the card.

Eligibility for a Work Authorization Document

There are essentially 2 various types of nonimmigrants who may be eligible to request an EAD. Certain foreign nationals are licensed to operate in the United States based upon their immigration status. Although they are currently licensed to work, they might require evidence of that benefit. Examples consist of asylees and refugees. Other foreign nationals are inside the U.S. but need to ask for unique consent to accept employment. Examples include modification of status candidates, DACA, asylum seekers, and certain students.

RECOMMENDED: List of Eligibility Categories for EAD

Permanent citizens (green card holders) do not need an Employment Authorization Document. The green card is evidence of the cardholder's status and work permission. Likewise, nonimmigrants licensed to be used 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 might ask for one with Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization. In many cases, the preliminary request for work permission need to be sent with the application for the underlying status.

Typically, a candidate should include the following products for a preliminary demand:

- Form I-765

USCIS charges

- 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 specific supporting files depending on the certifying basis of eligibility. Additionally, particular initial I-765 requests get submitted with the main application.

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

Applicants that prepare Form I-765 through CitizenPath's service likewise receive tailored filing guidelines. The filing directions will be based on your particular 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 authorization. File a new Form I-765 and pick the "renewal" alternative. Generally, you must not apply for a renewal EAD more than 180 days before your newest EAD ends.

Replacement

You might change your Employment Authorization Document if your newest 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 mailed, you can send an inquiry on non-delivery of a card.