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) issues to specific certifying 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 picture of the private authorized to work and may consist of the person's finger print. A foreign national who has an EAD usually has open-market employment permission, 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 just legitimate till it's expiration date. Depending on the individual'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 categories may be immediately extended beyond the validity date on the card.

Eligibility for a Work Authorization Document

There are fundamentally two various kinds of nonimmigrants who might be qualified to request an EAD. Certain foreign nationals are authorized to work in the United States based on their immigration status. Although they are currently authorized to work, they may need proof of that advantage. Examples consist of asylees and refugees. Other foreign nationals are inside the U.S. however need to ask for unique permission to accept employment. Examples include adjustment of status applicants, DACA, asylum seekers, and certain trainees.

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Permanent locals (permit holders) do not require an Employment Authorization Document. The green card is evidence of the cardholder's status and work authorization. Likewise, nonimmigrants authorized to be used with a particular employer do not need 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 qualified 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 submitted with the application for the underlying status.

Typically, a candidate must consist of the following products for an initial demand:

- Form I-765

USCIS charges

- Copy of Form I-94 Arrival/Departure Record

- Two passport-style photos

- Proof of eligibility


The list above is a generalization. In other words, applicants should submit other specific supporting files depending upon the certifying basis of eligibility. Additionally, particular initial I-765 demands get submitted with the main application.

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

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

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Renewal

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

Replacement

You might change your Employment Authorization Document if your newest EAD is lost, taken or damaged. File a new Form I-765 and pick the "replacement" option. If you did not receive an EAD that USCIS sent by mail, you can send an inquiry on non-delivery of a card.