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 an identification card that U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) concerns to particular certifying foreign nationals to operate in the United States. Many individuals describe the card as a work permit. At USCIS, the Employment Authorization Document is understood as Form I-766.

The EAD card includes a photo of the private licensed to work and might include the person's finger print. A foreign national who has an EAD usually has open-market employment permission, however there are exceptions. The card (Form I-766) is a legitimate I-9 document for companies.

EAD Validity Period

Generally, an Employment Authorization Card is only valid until it's expiration date. Depending on the individual's immigration status, USCIS generally concerns cards for a two-year duration or less. However, certain EADs held by individuals with Temporary Protected Status (TPS) and other designated categories might be immediately extended beyond the validity date on the card.

Eligibility for an Employment Authorization Document

There are basically two different 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 currently authorized to work, they may require proof of that opportunity. Examples include asylees and refugees. Other foreign nationals are inside the U.S. but require to request unique permission to accept employment. Examples include change of status applicants, DACA, asylum seekers, and certain trainees.

RECOMMENDED: List of Eligibility Categories for EAD

Permanent homeowners (permit holders) do not require a Work Authorization Document. The permit is evidence of the cardholder's status and work authorization. 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.

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How to Request an EAD

Foreign nationals who are eligible for a Work Authorization Document might ask for one with Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization. In some cases, the initial ask for work permission must be sent with the application for the underlying status.

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

- Form I-765

USCIS fees

- Copy of Form I-94 Arrival/Departure Record

- Two passport-style photos

- Proof of eligibility


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

Mistakes on your Form I-765 can cause expensive hold-ups or a rejection.

Applicants that prepare Form I-765 through CitizenPath's service likewise get customized filing guidelines. The filing guidelines will be based upon your specific circumstance and will discuss precisely what files to send with Form I-765.

RECOMMENDED: How to Request a U.S. Work Permit

Renewal

You may renew your Employment Authorization Document if you are still qualified for work permission. File a brand-new Form I-765 and choose the "renewal" alternative. Generally, you need to not submit for a renewal EAD more than 180 days before your most current EAD expires.

Replacement

You may change your Employment Authorization Document if your most current EAD is lost, stolen or ruined. File a new Form I-765 and choose the "replacement" choice. If you did not get an EAD that USCIS sent by mail, you can send an inquiry on non-delivery of a card.