Home" What is an Employment 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 particular qualifying foreign nationals to work in the United States. Many individuals refer to the card as a work authorization. At USCIS, the Employment Authorization Document is understood as Form I-766.

The EAD card consists of a photograph of the individual authorized to work and may consist of the individual's fingerprint. A foreign nationwide who has an EAD normally has open-market employment authorization, however there are exceptions. The card (Form I-766) is a legitimate I-9 file for employers.

EAD Validity Period

Generally, a Work Authorization Card is just legitimate till it's expiration date. Depending upon the person's migration status, USCIS usually problems cards for a two-year period or less. However, certain EADs held by individuals with Temporary Protected Status (TPS) and other designated classifications might be instantly extended beyond the validity date on the card.

Eligibility for an Employment Authorization Document

There are fundamentally two various types of nonimmigrants who might be eligible to request an EAD. Certain foreign nationals are authorized to operate in the United States based upon their migration status. Although they are already authorized to work, they might need proof of that advantage. Examples consist of asylees and refugees. Other foreign nationals are inside the U.S. but require to request unique permission to accept employment. Examples consist of adjustment of status candidates, DACA, asylum applicants, and specific students.

RECOMMENDED: List of Eligibility Categories for EAD

Permanent residents (permit holders) do not need an Employment Authorization Document. The permit is evidence of the cardholder's status and work permission. Likewise, nonimmigrants authorized to be used with a particular employer do not need 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 may request one with Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization. In many cases, the preliminary ask for work permission must be sent with the application for the underlying status.

Typically, an applicant must include the following items for an initial demand:

- Form I-765

USCIS fees

- Copy of Form I-94 Arrival/Departure Record

- Two passport-style images

- Proof of eligibility


The list above is a generalization. Simply put, candidates should send other particular supporting documents depending upon the qualifying basis of eligibility. Additionally, specific preliminary I-765 demands get submitted with the primary application.

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

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

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Renewal

You may renew your Employment Authorization Document if you are still eligible for work authorization. File a new Form I-765 and pick the "renewal" choice. Generally, you must not submit for a renewal EAD more than 180 days before your newest EAD expires.

Replacement

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