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

What is a Work 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) issues to particular certifying foreign nationals to operate in the United States. Many individuals describe the card as a work license. At USCIS, the Employment Authorization Document is understood as Form I-766.

The EAD card includes a photograph of the individual licensed to work and might include the individual's finger print. A foreign nationwide who has an EAD generally has open-market work permission, but there are exceptions. The card (Form I-766) is a valid I-9 document for companies.

EAD Validity Period

Generally, a Work Authorization Card is just legitimate till it's expiration date. Depending upon the person's migration status, USCIS generally concerns cards for a two-year duration or less. However, particular EADs held by people with Temporary Protected Status (TPS) and other designated categories might be immediately extended beyond the validity date on the card.

Eligibility for a Work Authorization Document

There are basically 2 various kinds of nonimmigrants who may 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 already authorized to work, they may require proof of that opportunity. Examples include asylees and refugees. Other foreign nationals are inside the U.S. but need to ask for unique authorization to accept employment. Examples consist of adjustment of status candidates, DACA, asylum seekers, and specific trainees.

RECOMMENDED: List of Eligibility Categories for EAD

Permanent residents (green card holders) do not require an Employment Authorization Document. The permit is evidence of the cardholder's status and work permission. Likewise, nonimmigrants licensed to be employed with a particular company do not require an EAD. Examples of nonimmigrants with this status include H-1B and TN visa.

RECOMMENDED: U.S. Work Visa Types for Foreign Nationals

How to Request an EAD

Foreign nationals who are qualified for an Employment Authorization Document may ask for one with Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization. Sometimes, the initial demand for work permission must be submitted with the application for the underlying status.

Typically, an applicant needs to consist of the following products for a preliminary request:

- Form I-765

USCIS fees

- 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 must submit other specific supporting files depending on the certifying basis of eligibility. Additionally, specific initial I-765 demands get submitted with the main application.

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

Applicants that prepare Form I-765 through CitizenPath's service likewise get individualized filing directions. The filing instructions will be based upon your particular scenario and will explain exactly what documents to send out with Form I-765.

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

Renewal

You might renew your Employment Authorization Document if you are still qualified for work authorization. File a new Form I-765 and pick the "renewal" alternative. Generally, you must not declare a renewal EAD more than 180 days before your latest EAD ends.

Replacement

You might change your Employment Authorization Document if your latest EAD is lost, stolen or damaged. File a brand-new Form I-765 and choose the "replacement" alternative. If you did not receive an EAD that USCIS mailed, you can send a query on non-delivery of a card.