Home" What is a Work 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 certain certifying foreign nationals to work in the United States. Lots of people refer to the card as a work authorization. At USCIS, the Employment Authorization Document is known as Form I-766.

The EAD card contains a picture of the private licensed to work and may consist of the person's finger print. A foreign national who has an EAD usually 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, a Work Authorization Card is only legitimate until it's expiration date. Depending upon the person's migration status, USCIS typically concerns cards for a two-year period or less. However, particular 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 fundamentally 2 various types of nonimmigrants who might be eligible to request an EAD. Certain foreign nationals are licensed to work in the United States based on their immigration status. Although they are currently licensed to work, they may need proof of that advantage. Examples include asylees and refugees. Other foreign nationals are inside the U.S. however require to request special permission to accept work. Examples consist of modification of status candidates, DACA, asylum seekers, and particular trainees.

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 licensed to be utilized 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 qualified for an Employment Authorization Document may request one with Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization. In some cases, the initial demand for work permission must be sent with the application for the underlying status.

Typically, a candidate needs to consist of the following products for an initial request:

- Form I-765

USCIS charges

- Copy of Form I-94 Arrival/Departure Record

- Two passport-style pictures

- Proof of eligibility


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

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

Applicants that prepare Form I-765 through CitizenPath's service likewise receive personalized filing guidelines. The filing directions will be based upon your specific circumstance and will explain exactly what documents to send out with Form I-765.

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Renewal

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

Replacement

You might replace your Employment Authorization Document if your latest EAD is lost, stolen or damaged. File a brand-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.