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 a recognition card that U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) concerns to certain certifying foreign nationals to work in the United States. Many people refer to the card as a work license. At USCIS, the Employment Authorization Document is understood as Form I-766.

The EAD card consists of a photo of the specific licensed to work and might consist of the person's finger print. A foreign national who has an EAD usually 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 just legitimate till it's expiration date. Depending upon the person's migration status, USCIS normally concerns cards for a two-year period or less. However, specific EADs held by people with Temporary Protected Status (TPS) and other designated categories may be immediately extended beyond the credibility date on the card.

Eligibility for a Work Authorization Document

There are essentially 2 different types of nonimmigrants who might be eligible to ask for an EAD. Certain foreign nationals are licensed to operate in the United States based on their immigration status. Although they are already licensed to work, they may need evidence of that advantage. Examples include asylees and refugees. Other foreign nationals are inside the U.S. but require to request special approval to accept work. Examples include modification of status applicants, DACA, asylum candidates, and specific students.

RECOMMENDED: List of Eligibility Categories for EAD

Permanent locals (green card holders) do not need a Work Authorization Document. The permit is evidence of the cardholder's status and work permission. Likewise, nonimmigrants authorized 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.

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

How to Request an EAD

Foreign nationals who are qualified 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 must consist of the following products for a preliminary demand:

- 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. Simply put, applicants need to submit other particular supporting documents depending upon the certifying basis of eligibility. Additionally, certain initial I-765 demands get sent with the primary application.

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

Applicants that prepare Form I-765 through CitizenPath's service likewise receive customized filing directions. The filing guidelines will be based upon your specific situation and will discuss precisely what files to send with Form I-765.

RECOMMENDED: How to Apply for a U.S. Work Permit

Renewal

You may restore your Employment Authorization Document if you are still qualified for work authorization. File a brand-new Form I-765 and pick the "renewal" option. Generally, you must not file for a renewal EAD more than 180 days before your most recent EAD expires.

Replacement

You might change your Employment Authorization Document if your most current EAD is lost, stolen or destroyed. File a brand-new Form I-765 and select the "replacement" option. If you did not get an EAD that USCIS sent by mail, you can send an inquiry on non-delivery of a card.