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

What is an Employment 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 specific certifying foreign nationals to work in the United States. Many individuals describe the card as a work authorization. At USCIS, the Employment Authorization Document is called Form I-766.

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

EAD Validity Period

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

Eligibility for a Work Authorization Document

There are essentially 2 various types 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 immigration status. Although they are already licensed to work, they might require proof of that benefit. Examples consist of asylees and refugees. Other foreign nationals are inside the U.S. but require to ask for unique permission to accept employment. Examples include change of status candidates, DACA, asylum applicants, and certain students.

RECOMMENDED: List of Eligibility Categories for EAD

Permanent residents (green card holders) do not require an Employment Authorization Document. The permit is evidence of the cardholder's status and work authorization. Likewise, nonimmigrants licensed to be used with a specific employer do not need an EAD. Examples of nonimmigrants with this status include 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 request one with Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization. In many cases, the preliminary demand for work permission need to be sent with the application for the underlying status.

Typically, an applicant should include the following items for a preliminary demand:

- Form I-765

USCIS fees

- Copy of Form I-94 Arrival/Departure Record

- Two passport-style pictures

- Proof of eligibility


The list above is a generalization. Simply put, applicants should send other specific supporting documents depending on the qualifying basis of eligibility. Additionally, particular initial I-765 demands get submitted 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 likewise receive customized filing directions. The filing guidelines will be based on your specific scenario and will explain exactly what documents to send out with Form I-765.

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

Renewal

You might renew your Employment Authorization Document if you are still eligible for work authorization. File a brand-new Form I-765 and pick the "renewal" choice. Generally, you need to not apply for a renewal EAD more than 180 days before your most current EAD ends.

Replacement

You might replace your Employment Authorization Document if your most recent EAD is lost, stolen or damaged. File a new Form I-765 and select the "replacement" alternative. If you did not get an EAD that USCIS sent by mail, you can submit a questions on non-delivery of a card.