Home" What is a Work 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) problems to specific qualifying foreign nationals to work in the United States. Lots of people refer to the card as a work permit. At USCIS, the Employment Authorization Document is referred to as Form I-766.

The EAD card includes a picture of the individual authorized to work and might include the person's finger print. A foreign national who has an EAD generally has open-market employment authorization, but there are exceptions. The card (Form I-766) is a valid I-9 file for employers.

EAD Validity Period

Generally, a Work Authorization Card is just legitimate up until it's expiration date. Depending upon the person's immigration status, USCIS usually concerns cards for a two-year period or less. However, certain EADs held by individuals with Temporary Protected Status (TPS) and other designated classifications might be instantly extended beyond the credibility date on the card.

Eligibility for a Work Authorization Document

There are basically 2 various kinds of nonimmigrants who may be qualified to ask for an EAD. Certain foreign nationals are authorized to work in the United States based on their immigration status. Although they are already authorized to work, they might require evidence of that privilege. Examples include asylees and refugees. Other foreign nationals are inside the U.S. but require to ask for unique authorization to accept employment. Examples include adjustment of status applicants, DACA, asylum applicants, and certain students.

RECOMMENDED: List of Eligibility Categories for EAD

Permanent residents (permit holders) do not need a Work Authorization Document. The permit is evidence of the cardholder's status and work permission. Likewise, nonimmigrants licensed to be utilized with a particular company do not require 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 eligible for a Work Authorization Document might request one with Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization. In many cases, the preliminary demand for work authorization need to be submitted with the application for the underlying status.

Typically, a candidate should consist of the following items for a preliminary demand:

- Form I-765

USCIS charges

- Copy of Form I-94 Arrival/Departure Record

- Two passport-style pictures

- Proof of eligibility


The list above is a generalization. In other words, applicants must submit other particular supporting documents depending upon the qualifying basis of eligibility. Additionally, certain initial I-765 demands get sent with the primary application.

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

Applicants that prepare Form I-765 through CitizenPath's service likewise receive customized filing guidelines. The filing guidelines will be based upon your particular situation and will discuss exactly what documents to send with Form I-765.

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

Renewal

You may restore your Employment Authorization Document if you are still eligible for work permission. File a brand-new Form I-765 and choose the "renewal" option. Generally, you need to not submit for a renewal EAD more than 180 days before your most current EAD expires.

Replacement

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