Home" What is an Employment 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) problems to specific certifying foreign nationals to work in the United States. Lots of people refer to the card as a work permit. At USCIS, the Employment Authorization Document is called Form I-766.

The EAD card includes a picture of the specific licensed to work and might consist of the individual's fingerprint. A foreign nationwide who has an EAD normally has open-market employment authorization, 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 legitimate up until it's expiration date. Depending on the person's migration status, USCIS generally concerns cards for a two-year period or less. However, particular EADs held by people 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 fundamentally 2 various kinds of nonimmigrants who may be eligible to request an EAD. Certain foreign nationals are authorized to work in the United States based on their migration status. Although they are currently authorized to work, they may require proof of that benefit. Examples include asylees and refugees. Other foreign nationals are inside the U.S. however require to ask for special authorization to accept work. Examples include modification of status candidates, DACA, asylum hunters, and certain trainees.

RECOMMENDED: List of Eligibility Categories for EAD

Permanent locals (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 utilized with a particular 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 a Work Authorization Document might ask for one with Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization. Sometimes, the preliminary ask for work authorization should be sent with the application for the underlying status.

Typically, a candidate must include the following products for an initial request:

- Form I-765

USCIS charges

- 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, applicants should send other specific supporting documents depending upon the qualifying basis of eligibility. Additionally, specific initial I-765 requests get submitted with the main application.

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

Applicants that prepare Form I-765 through CitizenPath's service likewise receive customized filing directions. The filing guidelines will be based on your specific circumstance and will explain precisely what documents to send out with Form I-765.

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Renewal

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

Replacement

You might replace your Employment Authorization Document if your latest EAD is lost, stolen or damaged. File a new Form I-765 and select the "replacement" option. If you did not receive an EAD that USCIS sent by mail, you can send a query on non-delivery of a card.