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 a recognition card that U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) problems to particular qualifying foreign nationals to work in the United States. Lots of people refer to the card as a work authorization. At USCIS, the Employment Authorization Document is called Form I-766.

The EAD card includes a photo of the specific licensed to work and might include the individual's finger print. A foreign nationwide who has an EAD usually has open-market employment authorization, but there are exceptions. The card (Form I-766) is a legitimate I-9 document for companies.

EAD Validity Period

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

Eligibility for an Employment Authorization Document

There are essentially 2 various kinds 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 might require evidence of that opportunity. Examples include asylees and refugees. Other foreign nationals are inside the U.S. however need to ask for unique permission to accept employment. Examples consist of change of status applicants, DACA, asylum candidates, and certain students.

RECOMMENDED: List of Eligibility Categories for EAD

Permanent citizens (green card holders) do not require a Work Authorization Document. The green card is proof of the cardholder's status and work authorization. Likewise, nonimmigrants authorized to be employed with a particular employer 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 qualified for a Work Authorization Document might ask for one with Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization. In many cases, the initial request for work authorization need to be sent with the application for the underlying status.

Typically, an applicant should include the following items for an initial request:

- Form I-765

USCIS costs

- Copy of Form I-94 Arrival/Departure Record

- Two passport-style images

- Proof of eligibility


The list above is a generalization. Simply put, candidates need to submit other particular supporting documents depending upon the qualifying basis of eligibility. Additionally, specific initial I-765 requests 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 personalized filing instructions. The filing guidelines will be based on your particular scenario and will explain precisely what documents to send with Form I-765.

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Renewal

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

Replacement

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