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

What is an Employment 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 certifying foreign nationals to operate in the United States. Many people describe the card as a work license. At USCIS, the Employment Authorization Document is known as Form I-766.

The EAD card consists of a photograph of the individual licensed to work and might consist of the person's finger print. A foreign nationwide who has an EAD normally has open-market employment authorization, but there are exceptions. The card (Form I-766) is a valid I-9 document for employers.

EAD Validity Period

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

Eligibility for a Work Authorization Document

There are essentially two different types of nonimmigrants who might be eligible to request an EAD. Certain foreign nationals are licensed to operate in the United States based on their migration status. Although they are already licensed to work, they may require evidence of that privilege. Examples consist of asylees and refugees. Other foreign nationals are inside the U.S. but need to request special approval to accept employment. Examples consist of modification of status applicants, DACA, asylum applicants, and specific trainees.

RECOMMENDED: List of Eligibility Categories for EAD

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

Typically, a candidate ought to include 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. Simply put, applicants should submit other particular supporting files depending on the certifying basis of eligibility. Additionally, specific preliminary I-765 requests get sent with the primary application.

Mistakes on your Form I-765 can trigger costly hold-ups or a denial.

Applicants that prepare Form I-765 through CitizenPath's service likewise receive tailored filing directions. The filing directions will be based on your specific scenario and will discuss exactly what documents to send out 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 new Form I-765 and pick the "renewal" option. Generally, you need to not declare a renewal EAD more than 180 days before your most current EAD ends.

Replacement

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

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