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 an identification card that U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) problems to certain certifying foreign nationals to operate in the United States. Lots of people refer to the card as a work authorization. At USCIS, the Employment Authorization Document is referred to as Form I-766.

The EAD card consists of a photo of the individual licensed to work and may include the person's finger print. 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 file for employers.

EAD Validity Period

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

Eligibility for an Employment Authorization Document

There are basically 2 different kinds of nonimmigrants who may be qualified to request an EAD. Certain foreign nationals are licensed to work in the United States based on their migration status. Although they are currently licensed to work, they may need evidence of that advantage. Examples include asylees and refugees. Other foreign nationals are inside the U.S. however need to ask for special permission to accept work. Examples consist of modification of status applicants, DACA, asylum hunters, and specific trainees.

RECOMMENDED: List of Eligibility Categories for EAD

Permanent homeowners (green card holders) do not require an Employment Authorization Document. The green card is proof of the cardholder's status and work authorization. Likewise, nonimmigrants authorized to be used with a particular company do not require an EAD. Examples of nonimmigrants with this status consist of H-1B and TN visa.

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How to Request an EAD

Foreign nationals who are eligible for an Employment Authorization Document might request one with Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization. In many cases, the initial request for work permission must be submitted with the application for the underlying status.

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

- Form I-765

USCIS charges

- Copy of Form I-94 Arrival/Departure Record

- Two passport-style images

- Proof of eligibility


The list above is a generalization. To put it simply, candidates should send other specific supporting documents depending on the certifying basis of eligibility. Additionally, particular preliminary I-765 requests get submitted with the main application.

Mistakes on your Form I-765 can cause pricey delays or a denial.

Applicants that prepare Form I-765 through CitizenPath's service likewise get customized filing instructions. The filing guidelines will be based on your specific circumstance and will discuss precisely what documents to send with Form I-765.

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Renewal

You might renew your Employment Authorization Document if you are still eligible for work permission. File a brand-new Form I-765 and pick the "renewal" alternative. Generally, you must not declare a renewal EAD more than 180 days before your most current EAD ends.

Replacement

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