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

What is a Work 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) problems to certain certifying foreign nationals to work in the United States. Many individuals refer to the card as a work authorization. At USCIS, the Employment Authorization Document is referred to as Form I-766.

The EAD card includes a photo of the individual licensed to work and might consist of the person's finger print. A foreign nationwide who has an EAD usually has open-market work authorization, however 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 only legitimate till it's expiration date. Depending upon the person's immigration status, USCIS typically concerns cards for a two-year period or less. However, specific EADs held by people with Temporary Protected Status (TPS) and other designated classifications may be automatically extended beyond the credibility date on the card.

Eligibility for an Employment Authorization Document

There are basically 2 different types of nonimmigrants who might be eligible to request an EAD. Certain foreign nationals are authorized to work in the United States based on their immigration status. Although they are already licensed to work, they might need proof of that advantage. Examples include asylees and refugees. Other foreign nationals are inside the U.S. however need to ask for special approval to accept employment. Examples include change of status candidates, DACA, asylum hunters, and specific students.

RECOMMENDED: List of Eligibility Categories for EAD

Permanent residents (permit holders) do not require a Work Authorization Document. The permit is evidence of the cardholder's status and work authorization. Likewise, nonimmigrants authorized to be used with a specific employer 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 may request one with Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization. In some cases, the initial demand for work permission must be sent with the application for the underlying status.

Typically, a candidate needs to include the following items for a preliminary request:

- Form I-765

USCIS fees

- 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 need to submit other particular supporting files depending upon the qualifying basis of eligibility. Additionally, particular preliminary I-765 requests get sent with the primary application.

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

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

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Renewal

You might renew your Employment Authorization Document if you are still qualified for work permission. File a new Form I-765 and select the "renewal" choice. Generally, you must not declare a renewal EAD more than 180 days before your newest EAD expires.

Replacement

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