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 a recognition card that U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) concerns to certain certifying foreign nationals to operate in the United States. Lots of people describe the card as a work license. At USCIS, the Employment Authorization Document is understood as Form I-766.

The EAD card consists of a picture of the individual licensed to work and might include the individual's fingerprint. A foreign nationwide who has an EAD usually has open-market work permission, however there are exceptions. The card (Form I-766) is a valid 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 individual's migration status, USCIS typically concerns cards for a two-year duration or less. However, particular EADs held by individuals with Temporary Protected Status (TPS) and other designated categories may be instantly extended beyond the credibility date on the card.

Eligibility for an Employment Authorization Document

There are basically 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 upon their migration status. Although they are already licensed to work, they may need evidence of that benefit. Examples include asylees and refugees. Other foreign nationals are inside the U.S. however need to request special consent to accept work. Examples consist of change of status applicants, DACA, asylum hunters, and certain trainees.

RECOMMENDED: List of Eligibility Categories for EAD

Permanent residents (permit holders) do not require a Work Authorization Document. The green card is evidence of the cardholder's status and work permission. Likewise, nonimmigrants licensed to be utilized with a specific company 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 may request one with Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization. Sometimes, the preliminary demand for work permission must be submitted with the application for the underlying status.

Typically, an applicant needs to consist of the following items for a preliminary 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. To put it simply, applicants must submit other specific supporting documents depending upon the qualifying basis of eligibility. Additionally, specific preliminary I-765 requests get submitted with the main application.

Mistakes on your Form I-765 can cause costly hold-ups or a rejection.

Applicants that prepare Form I-765 through CitizenPath's service likewise get individualized filing directions. The filing instructions will be based upon your specific situation and will discuss exactly what documents to send out with Form I-765.

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

Renewal

You might renew your Employment Authorization Document if you are still eligible for work permission. File a new Form I-765 and choose the "renewal" option. Generally, you ought to not submit for a renewal EAD more than 180 days before your latest EAD ends.

Replacement

You might replace your Employment Authorization Document if your latest EAD is lost, taken or ruined. 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 submit a questions on non-delivery of a card.

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