Home" What is an Employment Authorization Document (Form I-766)?

What is an Employment Authorization Document (Form I-766)?

May 9, 2021

An Employment Authorization Document (EAD) is a recognition card that U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) concerns to specific qualifying foreign nationals to work in the United States. Lots of people describe the card as a work authorization. At USCIS, the Employment Authorization Document is referred to as Form I-766.

The EAD card consists of a photograph of the specific authorized to work and may consist of the individual's fingerprint. 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 just valid until it's expiration date. Depending on the person's immigration status, USCIS generally issues cards for a two-year duration or less. However, certain EADs held by individuals with Temporary Protected Status (TPS) and other designated classifications may be instantly extended beyond the credibility date on the card.

Eligibility for a Work Authorization Document

There are essentially two various types of nonimmigrants who may be eligible to request an EAD. Certain foreign nationals are licensed to work in the United States based upon their immigration status. Although they are already licensed to work, they may need evidence of that privilege. Examples include asylees and refugees. Other foreign nationals are inside the U.S. but require to request special permission to accept work. Examples consist of modification of status applicants, DACA, asylum candidates, and specific trainees.

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Permanent locals (permit holders) do not require an Employment Authorization Document. The permit is proof of the cardholder's status and work authorization. Likewise, nonimmigrants authorized to be used with a specific 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 a Work Authorization Document might request one with Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization. Sometimes, the preliminary demand for work authorization need to be submitted with the application for the underlying status.

Typically, an applicant needs to consist of the following items for an initial request:

- Form I-765

USCIS costs

- Copy of Form I-94 Arrival/Departure Record

- Two passport-style pictures

- Proof of eligibility


The list above is a generalization. In other words, candidates need to send other specific supporting files depending upon the certifying basis of eligibility. Additionally, particular preliminary I-765 requests get submitted with the primary application.

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

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

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Renewal

You may restore your Employment Authorization Document if you are still qualified for work permission. File a brand-new Form I-765 and pick the "renewal" option. Generally, you ought to 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, taken or destroyed. File a new Form I-765 and choose the "replacement" alternative. If you did not receive an EAD that USCIS mailed, you can submit an inquiry on non-delivery of a card.