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

The EAD card includes 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 work 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 only legitimate till it's expiration date. Depending on the person's immigration status, USCIS usually issues cards for a two-year period or less. However, certain EADs held by people with Temporary Protected Status (TPS) and other designated classifications might be automatically extended beyond the credibility date on the card.

Eligibility for a Work Authorization Document

There are fundamentally 2 various types of nonimmigrants who may be eligible to ask for an EAD. Certain foreign nationals are licensed to work in the United States based upon their migration status. Although they are already authorized to work, they might require evidence of that privilege. Examples consist of asylees and refugees. Other foreign nationals are inside the U.S. but require to request unique consent to accept employment. Examples include adjustment of status candidates, DACA, asylum hunters, and particular students.

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 permission. Likewise, nonimmigrants authorized to be utilized with a specific employer do not need an EAD. Examples of nonimmigrants with this status include 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 a Work Authorization Document may request one with Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization. Sometimes, the initial request for work authorization must be submitted with the application for the underlying status.

Typically, a candidate ought to include the following items 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. In other words, applicants need to submit other particular supporting documents depending upon the qualifying basis of eligibility. Additionally, specific initial I-765 demands get submitted with the primary application.

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

Applicants that prepare Form I-765 through CitizenPath's service also receive personalized filing instructions. The filing directions will be based upon your specific scenario and will describe precisely what files to send 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 qualified for work authorization. File a brand-new Form I-765 and choose the "renewal" option. Generally, you need to not apply for a renewal EAD more than 180 days before your newest EAD ends.

Replacement

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