Home" What is a Work Authorization Document (Form I-766)?

What is an Employment 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 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 known as Form I-766.

The EAD card consists of a picture of the individual authorized to work and might consist of the person's fingerprint. A foreign national who has an EAD usually has open-market work permission, but there are exceptions. The card (Form I-766) is a legitimate I-9 document for employers.

EAD Validity Period

Generally, an Employment Authorization Card is just valid until it's expiration date. Depending on the person's migration status, USCIS normally problems cards for a two-year period or less. However, specific EADs held by people with Temporary Protected Status (TPS) and other designated categories may be instantly extended beyond the credibility date on the card.

Eligibility for a Work Authorization Document

There are basically two various types of nonimmigrants who may be qualified to request an EAD. Certain foreign nationals are authorized to work in the United States based upon their migration status. Although they are already authorized to work, they may require evidence of that opportunity. Examples include asylees and refugees. Other foreign nationals are inside the U.S. but need to ask for unique permission to accept employment. Examples consist of modification of status applicants, DACA, asylum seekers, and specific students.

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Permanent locals (permit holders) do not need an Employment Authorization Document. The permit is evidence of the cardholder's status and work permission. Likewise, nonimmigrants licensed to be used with a specific employer do not require 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 a Work Authorization Document might 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, an applicant ought to consist of the following products for a preliminary demand:

- 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. To put it simply, candidates should submit other particular supporting documents depending upon the qualifying basis of eligibility. Additionally, certain initial I-765 demands get sent with the main 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 customized filing guidelines. The filing guidelines will be based upon your particular scenario and will explain exactly what documents to send out with Form I-765.

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Renewal

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

Replacement

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