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) concerns to particular qualifying foreign nationals to work in the United States. Many individuals refer to the card as a work license. At USCIS, the Employment Authorization Document is referred to as Form I-766.

The EAD card includes a photograph of the individual authorized to work and may include the person's fingerprint. A foreign nationwide who has an EAD normally has open-market work authorization, but 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 just valid up until it's expiration date. Depending upon the individual's immigration status, USCIS typically issues cards for a two-year duration or less. However, particular EADs held by people with Temporary Protected Status (TPS) and other designated classifications may be automatically extended beyond the validity date on the card.

Eligibility for an Employment Authorization Document

There are basically 2 various types of nonimmigrants who may be qualified to ask for an EAD. Certain foreign nationals are licensed to operate in the United States based on their migration status. Although they are already authorized to work, they might need proof of that benefit. Examples include asylees and refugees. Other foreign nationals are inside the U.S. but require to request special permission to accept work. Examples include change of status applicants, DACA, asylum applicants, and specific trainees.

RECOMMENDED: List of Eligibility Categories for EAD

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

RECOMMENDED: U.S. Work Visa Types for Foreign Nationals

How to Request an EAD

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

Typically, a candidate must include the following products for an initial request:

- Form I-765

USCIS costs

- 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, applicants must submit other particular supporting files depending upon the certifying basis of eligibility. Additionally, certain initial I-765 demands get submitted 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 get individualized filing guidelines. The filing instructions will be based upon your specific circumstance and will describe precisely what files to send out with Form I-765.

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

Renewal

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

Replacement

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