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 an identification card that U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) issues to specific certifying 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 includes a photo of the specific licensed to work and may consist of the individual's finger print. A foreign nationwide who has an EAD typically has open-market employment 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 only valid till it's expiration date. Depending upon the person's immigration status, USCIS generally problems cards for a two-year period or less. However, particular EADs held by individuals with Temporary Protected Status (TPS) and other designated classifications may be automatically extended beyond the credibility date on the card.

Eligibility for a Work Authorization Document

There are fundamentally 2 different types of nonimmigrants who might be eligible to request an EAD. Certain foreign nationals are licensed to work in the United States based on their migration status. Although they are currently licensed to work, they may require evidence of that advantage. Examples include asylees and refugees. Other foreign nationals are inside the U.S. however need to request special authorization to accept employment. Examples include modification of status applicants, DACA, asylum applicants, and certain students.

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Permanent locals (green card holders) do not need an Employment Authorization Document. The permit is proof of the cardholder's status and work authorization. Likewise, nonimmigrants authorized to be utilized with a specific employer do not require 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 an Employment Authorization Document might ask for one with Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization. Sometimes, the initial ask for work permission must be submitted with the application for the underlying status.

Typically, a candidate should consist of the following products for an initial request:

- Form I-765

USCIS costs

- Copy of Form I-94 Arrival/Departure Record

- Two passport-style photos

- Proof of eligibility


The list above is a generalization. Simply put, candidates must submit other specific supporting files depending upon the qualifying basis of eligibility. Additionally, specific initial I-765 demands get sent with the primary application.

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

Applicants that prepare Form I-765 through CitizenPath's service also get customized filing instructions. The filing guidelines will be based on your specific situation and will explain 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 authorization. File a new Form I-765 and select the "renewal" option. Generally, you must not submit for 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 destroyed. File a new Form I-765 and select the "replacement" alternative. If you did not get an EAD that USCIS mailed, you can submit a query on non-delivery of a card.