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) concerns to particular qualifying foreign nationals to work in the United States. Many individuals describe the card as a work permit. At USCIS, the Employment Authorization Document is referred to as Form I-766.

The EAD card contains a photo of the specific licensed to work and may consist of the person's finger print. A foreign national who has an EAD usually has open-market employment authorization, however there are exceptions. The card (Form I-766) is a valid I-9 document for employers.

EAD Validity Period

Generally, a Work Authorization Card is just valid up until it's expiration date. Depending on the individual's migration status, USCIS typically issues cards for a two-year period or less. However, specific EADs held by people with Temporary Protected Status (TPS) and other designated classifications might be instantly extended beyond the validity date on the card.

Eligibility for an Employment Authorization Document

There are essentially two different types of nonimmigrants who may be eligible to ask for an EAD. Certain foreign nationals are licensed to work in the United States based on their migration status. Although they are currently authorized to work, they might require proof of that opportunity. 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 consist of adjustment of status applicants, DACA, asylum candidates, and specific trainees.

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Permanent homeowners (permit holders) do not need an Employment Authorization Document. The permit is evidence of the cardholder's status and work authorization. Likewise, nonimmigrants authorized to be employed 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 a Work Authorization Document may 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, a candidate should consist of the following items 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 particular supporting documents depending on the qualifying basis of eligibility. Additionally, certain preliminary I-765 demands get submitted with the primary application.

Mistakes on your Form I-765 can trigger expensive delays or a denial.

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

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Renewal

You may restore your Employment Authorization Document if you are still eligible for work authorization. File a new Form I-765 and select the "renewal" alternative. Generally, you ought to not apply for a renewal EAD more than 180 days before your latest EAD expires.

Replacement

You may replace your Employment Authorization Document if your most current EAD is lost, taken or damaged. File a new Form I-765 and pick the "replacement" choice. If you did not get an EAD that USCIS mailed, you can send an inquiry on non-delivery of a card.