Home" What is a Work 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 particular qualifying foreign nationals to operate in the United States. Many people describe the card as a work authorization. At USCIS, the Employment Authorization Document is called Form I-766.

The EAD card contains a photo of the specific authorized to work and might consist of the individual's fingerprint. A foreign nationwide who has an EAD normally has open-market employment permission, however there are exceptions. The card (Form I-766) is a legitimate I-9 file for employers.

EAD Validity Period

Generally, a Work Authorization Card is only legitimate up until it's expiration date. Depending upon the person's immigration status, USCIS usually issues cards for a two-year duration or less. However, specific EADs held by people with Temporary Protected Status (TPS) and other designated categories may be automatically extended beyond the validity date on the card.

Eligibility for an Employment Authorization Document

There are fundamentally two different kinds of nonimmigrants who may be qualified to request an EAD. Certain foreign nationals are licensed to work in the United States based upon their immigration status. Although they are already authorized to work, they may need evidence of that benefit. Examples consist of asylees and refugees. Other foreign nationals are inside the U.S. but require to ask for unique consent to accept employment. Examples include change of status candidates, DACA, asylum applicants, and specific students.

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Permanent citizens (green card holders) do not require an Employment Authorization Document. The permit is proof of the cardholder's status and work permission. Likewise, nonimmigrants licensed to be employed with a specific company 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 qualified for an Employment Authorization Document may request one with Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization. Sometimes, the preliminary demand for work authorization must be submitted with the application for the underlying status.

Typically, a candidate ought to include the following items for an initial demand:

- Form I-765

USCIS fees

- Copy of Form I-94 Arrival/Departure Record

- Two passport-style photos

- Proof of eligibility


The list above is a generalization. In other words, candidates need to send other specific supporting files depending on the qualifying basis of eligibility. Additionally, certain preliminary I-765 demands get submitted with the main application.

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

Applicants that prepare Form I-765 through CitizenPath's service also receive individualized filing guidelines. The filing guidelines will be based upon your specific situation and will explain precisely what files to send out with Form I-765.

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Renewal

You might restore your Employment Authorization Document if you are still eligible for work permission. File a new Form I-765 and choose the "renewal" alternative. Generally, you need to not declare a renewal EAD more than 180 days before your latest EAD ends.

Replacement

You may replace your Employment Authorization Document if your newest EAD is lost, taken or destroyed. File a brand-new Form I-765 and select the "replacement" choice. If you did not receive an EAD that USCIS mailed, you can submit a questions on non-delivery of a card.