Home" What is a Work Authorization Document (Form I-766)?

What is a Work 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) issues to specific qualifying 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 referred to as Form I-766.

The EAD card consists of a photo of the private licensed to work and may consist of the person's finger print. A foreign national who has an EAD normally has open-market employment authorization, but there are exceptions. The card (Form I-766) is a legitimate I-9 file for employers.

EAD Validity Period

Generally, an Employment Authorization Card is only valid up until it's expiration date. Depending upon the individual's immigration status, USCIS normally issues cards for a two-year period or less. However, specific EADs held by individuals with Temporary Protected Status (TPS) and other designated categories might be immediately extended beyond the credibility date on the card.

Eligibility for a Work Authorization Document

There are essentially 2 various kinds of nonimmigrants who may be eligible to ask for an EAD. Certain foreign nationals are licensed to operate in the United States based upon their migration status. Although they are currently authorized to work, they might require proof of that benefit. Examples include asylees and refugees. Other foreign nationals are inside the U.S. however require to request unique permission to accept employment. Examples consist of modification of status candidates, DACA, asylum seekers, and particular trainees.

RECOMMENDED: List of Eligibility Categories for EAD

Permanent citizens (green card holders) do not require an Employment Authorization Document. The green card is proof of the cardholder's status and work authorization. Likewise, nonimmigrants licensed to be utilized with a particular employer do not need 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 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, an applicant needs to consist of the following products for an initial demand:

- Form I-765

USCIS costs

- Copy of Form I-94 Arrival/Departure Record

- Two passport-style pictures

- Proof of eligibility


The list above is a generalization. In other words, applicants should send other specific supporting documents depending on the certifying basis of eligibility. Additionally, specific initial I-765 demands get sent with the primary application.

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

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

RECOMMENDED: How to Request a U.S. Work Permit

Renewal

You may renew your Employment Authorization Document if you are still eligible for work permission. File a brand-new Form I-765 and choose the "renewal" choice. Generally, you must not declare a renewal EAD more than 180 days before your most recent EAD ends.

Replacement

You may replace your Employment Authorization Document if your latest EAD is lost, taken or destroyed. File a brand-new Form I-765 and select the "replacement" choice. If you did not get an EAD that USCIS sent by mail, you can send a questions on non-delivery of a card.