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 an identification card that U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) problems to certain qualifying foreign nationals to operate in the United States. Many individuals describe the card as a work license. At USCIS, the Employment Authorization Document is known as Form I-766.

The EAD card consists of a photo of the private licensed to work and may include the individual's finger print. A foreign nationwide who has an EAD typically 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, a Work Authorization Card is just valid till it's expiration date. Depending upon the person's immigration status, USCIS normally problems cards for a two-year period or less. However, specific EADs held by individuals with Temporary Protected Status (TPS) and other designated classifications may be immediately extended beyond the credibility date on the card.

Eligibility for a Work Authorization Document

There are essentially 2 various types of nonimmigrants who may be qualified to request an EAD. Certain foreign nationals are authorized to operate in the United States based on their migration status. Although they are already authorized to work, they might require evidence of that benefit. Examples include asylees and refugees. Other foreign nationals are inside the U.S. but require to ask for unique permission to accept employment. Examples include change of status candidates, DACA, asylum hunters, and certain students.

RECOMMENDED: List of Eligibility Categories for EAD

Permanent locals (green card holders) do not need a Work Authorization Document. The green card 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 ask for one with Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization. In many cases, the preliminary ask for work authorization must be submitted with the application for the underlying status.

Typically, an applicant ought to consist of 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. To put it simply, applicants should submit other specific supporting documents depending on the qualifying basis of eligibility. Additionally, particular initial I-765 demands get submitted with the primary application.

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

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

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Renewal

You might restore your Employment Authorization Document if you are still qualified for work authorization. File a brand-new Form I-765 and pick the "renewal" alternative. Generally, you need to not declare a renewal EAD more than 180 days before your latest EAD ends.

Replacement

You may replace your Employment Authorization Document if your most current EAD is lost, stolen or damaged. File a new Form I-765 and select the "replacement" option. If you did not get an EAD that USCIS mailed, you can submit an inquiry on non-delivery of a card.