Home" What is an Employment Authorization Document (Form I-766)?

What is an Employment Authorization Document (Form I-766)?

May 9, 2021

An Employment Authorization Document (EAD) is a recognition card that U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) issues to specific qualifying foreign nationals to operate in the United States. Many individuals refer to the card as a work authorization. At USCIS, the Employment Authorization Document is referred to as Form I-766.

The EAD card contains a photo of the private authorized to work and may consist of the individual's finger print. A foreign national who has an EAD usually has open-market work authorization, but there are exceptions. The card (Form I-766) is a valid I-9 file for companies.

EAD Validity Period

Generally, a Work Authorization Card is just legitimate up until it's expiration date. Depending on the individual's migration status, USCIS usually problems 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 instantly extended beyond the credibility date on the card.

Eligibility for an Employment Authorization Document

There are fundamentally two different kinds of nonimmigrants who might be qualified to ask for an EAD. Certain foreign nationals are authorized to operate in the United States based on their migration status. Although they are already licensed to work, they may need evidence of that opportunity. Examples consist of asylees and refugees. Other foreign nationals are inside the U.S. however require to ask for unique permission to accept employment. Examples include modification of status applicants, DACA, asylum hunters, and specific trainees.

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Permanent homeowners (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 need 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 an Employment Authorization Document may request one with Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization. In many cases, the initial ask for work authorization must be sent with the application for the underlying status.

Typically, an applicant must consist of the following items for a preliminary request:

- 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. To put it simply, candidates should send other particular supporting documents depending upon the certifying basis of eligibility. Additionally, specific preliminary I-765 requests get sent with the main application.

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

Applicants that prepare Form I-765 through CitizenPath's service also receive individualized filing directions. The filing guidelines will be based upon your particular circumstance 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 qualified for work permission. File a new Form I-765 and select the "renewal" option. Generally, you should not declare a renewal EAD more than 180 days before your newest EAD expires.

Replacement

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