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

What is a Work 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) issues to certain certifying foreign nationals to operate in the United States. Many individuals describe the card as a work authorization. At USCIS, the Employment Authorization Document is known as Form I-766.

The EAD card contains a picture of the specific licensed to work and might include the person's fingerprint. A foreign nationwide who has an EAD usually has open-market work authorization, however there are exceptions. The card (Form I-766) is a valid I-9 document for employers.

EAD Validity Period

Generally, a Work Authorization Card is only legitimate up until it's expiration date. Depending upon the individual's migration status, USCIS usually problems cards for a two-year duration or less. However, particular EADs held by individuals with Temporary Protected Status (TPS) and other designated classifications might be immediately extended beyond the validity date on the card.

Eligibility for an Employment Authorization Document

There are essentially two different kinds of nonimmigrants who might be eligible to ask for an EAD. Certain foreign nationals are authorized to work in the United States based upon their immigration status. Although they are currently authorized to work, they might need evidence of that benefit. Examples include asylees and refugees. Other foreign nationals are inside the U.S. however require to ask for unique permission to accept employment. Examples include change of status applicants, DACA, asylum seekers, and certain trainees.

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Permanent residents (green card holders) do not need a Work Authorization Document. The permit is evidence of the cardholder's status and work authorization. Likewise, nonimmigrants authorized to be utilized with a particular 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 eligible for an Employment Authorization Document might ask for one with Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization. In some cases, the initial request for work permission must be submitted with the application for the underlying status.

Typically, a candidate ought to 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. Simply put, candidates should send other particular supporting documents depending on the certifying basis of eligibility. Additionally, particular initial I-765 requests get submitted with the primary application.

Mistakes on your Form I-765 can trigger costly delays or a rejection.

Applicants that prepare Form I-765 through CitizenPath's service also get individualized filing instructions. The filing directions will be based upon your specific scenario and will discuss precisely what files to send out with Form I-765.

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Renewal

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

Replacement

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