Home" What is a Work 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) problems to particular certifying foreign nationals to work in the United States. Many individuals describe the card as a work license. At USCIS, the Employment Authorization Document is known as Form I-766.

The EAD card contains a photograph of the individual authorized to work and might consist of the individual's fingerprint. A foreign nationwide who has an EAD typically has open-market work authorization, but 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 on the individual's immigration status, USCIS usually issues cards for a two-year period or less. However, particular EADs held by individuals with Temporary Protected Status (TPS) and other designated categories might be immediately extended beyond the validity date on the card.

Eligibility for an Employment Authorization Document

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

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Permanent residents (green card holders) do not require an Employment Authorization Document. The permit is proof of the cardholder's status and work authorization. Likewise, nonimmigrants authorized to be employed with a specific company 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 may request one with Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization. In some cases, the initial request for work authorization must be submitted with the application for the underlying status.

Typically, a candidate must consist of the following items for an initial demand:

- Form I-765

USCIS fees

- Copy of Form I-94 Arrival/Departure Record

- Two passport-style images

- Proof of eligibility


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

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

Applicants that prepare Form I-765 through CitizenPath's service likewise receive personalized filing guidelines. The filing guidelines will be based on your specific situation and will describe exactly what documents to send with Form I-765.

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Renewal

You may renew your Employment Authorization Document if you are still qualified for work authorization. File a new Form I-765 and select the "renewal" alternative. Generally, you should not file for a renewal EAD more than 180 days before your latest EAD expires.

Replacement

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