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) problems to particular 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 known as Form I-766.

The EAD card contains a photograph of the private authorized to work and may include the person's fingerprint. A foreign national who has an EAD normally has open-market work permission, however there are exceptions. The card (Form I-766) is a legitimate I-9 document for employers.

EAD Validity Period

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

Eligibility for an Employment Authorization Document

There are essentially two various types of nonimmigrants who might be eligible to ask for an EAD. Certain foreign nationals are authorized to operate in the United States based on their migration status. Although they are currently authorized to work, they may need evidence of that opportunity. Examples include asylees and refugees. Other foreign nationals are inside the U.S. however need to request special authorization to accept work. Examples consist of adjustment of status candidates, DACA, asylum candidates, and certain students.

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Permanent homeowners (permit holders) do not require an Employment Authorization Document. The green card is proof of the cardholder's status and work permission. Likewise, nonimmigrants authorized to be used with a specific company do not require 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 ask for one with Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization. Sometimes, the preliminary ask for work authorization need to be sent with the application for the underlying status.

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

- Form I-765

USCIS charges

- Copy of Form I-94 Arrival/Departure Record

- Two passport-style photos

- Proof of eligibility


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

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

Applicants that prepare Form I-765 through CitizenPath's service also receive individualized filing guidelines. The filing instructions will be based upon your particular circumstance and will describe exactly what files to send with Form I-765.

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Renewal

You might restore your Employment Authorization Document if you are still eligible for work authorization. File a brand-new Form I-765 and pick the "renewal" alternative. Generally, you should not apply for a renewal EAD more than 180 days before your most recent EAD expires.

Replacement

You might replace your Employment Authorization Document if your newest EAD is lost, stolen or damaged. File a brand-new Form I-765 and choose the "replacement" alternative. If you did not get an EAD that USCIS mailed, you can send a questions on non-delivery of a card.