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 a recognition card that U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) issues to certain certifying foreign nationals to operate in the United States. Many individuals describe the card as a work authorization. At USCIS, the Employment Authorization Document is called Form I-766.

The EAD card consists of a photo of the specific authorized to work and might include the individual's fingerprint. A foreign nationwide who has an EAD generally has open-market employment authorization, however there are exceptions. The card (Form I-766) is a valid I-9 document for employers.

EAD Validity Period

Generally, an Employment Authorization Card is just valid till it's expiration date. Depending upon the person's migration status, USCIS typically concerns cards for a two-year duration or less. However, certain EADs held by people with Temporary Protected Status (TPS) and other designated categories may be instantly extended beyond the validity date on the card.

Eligibility for a Work Authorization Document

There are essentially 2 various types of nonimmigrants who might be eligible to request an EAD. Certain foreign nationals are licensed to work in the United States based upon their immigration status. Although they are already authorized to work, they might require evidence of that opportunity. Examples include asylees and refugees. Other foreign nationals are inside the U.S. however need to ask for unique authorization to accept work. Examples consist of modification of status candidates, DACA, asylum candidates, and specific trainees.

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Permanent locals (green card holders) do not require an Employment Authorization Document. The green card is proof of the cardholder's status and work permission. Likewise, nonimmigrants authorized to be used 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 qualified for a Work Authorization Document might request one with Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization. In some cases, the preliminary ask for work authorization must be submitted with the application for the underlying status.

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

- Form I-765

USCIS costs

- Copy of Form I-94 Arrival/Departure Record

- Two passport-style pictures

- Proof of eligibility


The list above is a generalization. To put it simply, applicants must send other specific supporting files depending on the qualifying basis of eligibility. Additionally, specific preliminary I-765 demands get sent with the main application.

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

Applicants that prepare Form I-765 through CitizenPath's service likewise get tailored filing directions. The filing directions will be based on your specific circumstance and will describe precisely what files to send out with Form I-765.

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Renewal

You might 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 declare a renewal EAD more than 180 days before your newest EAD expires.

Replacement

You may replace your Employment Authorization Document if your latest EAD is lost, taken or ruined. File a new Form I-765 and select the "replacement" alternative. If you did not get an EAD that USCIS mailed, you can send a questions on non-delivery of a card.