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 certain qualifying foreign nationals to operate in the United States. Lots of people describe the card as a work permit. At USCIS, the Employment Authorization Document is understood as Form I-766.

The EAD card consists of a photo of the individual licensed to work and may include the individual's fingerprint. A foreign national who has an EAD typically has open-market work permission, however there are exceptions. The card (Form I-766) is a valid I-9 document for companies.

EAD Validity Period

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

Eligibility for a Work Authorization Document

There are basically two various types of nonimmigrants who may be qualified to request an EAD. Certain foreign nationals are authorized to work in the United States based upon their migration status. Although they are currently authorized to work, they may require evidence of that opportunity. Examples consist of asylees and refugees. Other foreign nationals are inside the U.S. but need to request special permission to accept work. Examples include change of status applicants, DACA, asylum candidates, and specific students.

RECOMMENDED: List of Eligibility Categories for EAD

Permanent citizens (permit holders) do not need an Employment Authorization Document. The permit is evidence of the cardholder's status and work authorization. Likewise, nonimmigrants authorized to be employed with a specific company 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 may request one with Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization. In many cases, the preliminary ask for work permission should be submitted with the application for the underlying status.

Typically, a candidate should 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. In other words, candidates must send other particular supporting files depending on the qualifying basis of eligibility. Additionally, particular initial I-765 requests get submitted with the main application.

Mistakes on your Form I-765 can cause expensive delays or a rejection.

Applicants that prepare Form I-765 through CitizenPath's service likewise receive personalized filing guidelines. The filing directions will be based on your specific 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 authorization. File a brand-new Form I-765 and select the "renewal" alternative. Generally, you ought to not declare a renewal EAD more than 180 days before your newest EAD ends.

Replacement

You may change your Employment Authorization Document if your latest EAD is lost, stolen or destroyed. File a brand-new Form I-765 and choose the "replacement" option. If you did not receive an EAD that USCIS mailed, you can submit a questions on non-delivery of a card.