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 certifying foreign nationals to operate in the United States. Lots of people describe the card as a work permit. At USCIS, the Employment Authorization Document is called Form I-766.

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

EAD Validity Period

Generally, an Employment Authorization Card is just legitimate until it's expiration date. Depending on the individual's immigration status, USCIS normally concerns cards for a two-year duration or less. However, certain EADs held by people with Temporary Protected Status (TPS) and other designated classifications might be automatically extended beyond the credibility date on the card.

Eligibility for a Work Authorization Document

There are essentially two different kinds of nonimmigrants who might be eligible to request an EAD. Certain foreign nationals are licensed to operate in the United States based on their immigration status. Although they are currently 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 special consent to accept work. Examples include change of status applicants, DACA, asylum seekers, and particular students.

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Permanent homeowners (permit holders) do not require an Employment Authorization Document. The green card is evidence of the cardholder's status and work permission. Likewise, nonimmigrants licensed to be used with a particular employer do not require 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 eligible for a Work Authorization Document might ask for one with Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization. Sometimes, the initial request for work permission need to be sent with the application for the underlying status.

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

- 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, candidates should submit other specific supporting documents depending upon the certifying basis of eligibility. Additionally, particular preliminary I-765 requests get submitted with the main application.

Mistakes on your Form I-765 can trigger costly hold-ups or a denial.

Applicants that prepare Form I-765 through CitizenPath's service likewise get individualized filing guidelines. The filing guidelines will be based upon your specific circumstance and will explain precisely what documents 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 pick the "renewal" choice. Generally, you need to not file for a renewal EAD more than 180 days before your latest EAD expires.

Replacement

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