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 qualifying foreign nationals to operate in the United States. Many individuals describe the card as a work authorization. At USCIS, the Employment Authorization Document is referred to as Form I-766.

The EAD card contains a picture of the private authorized to work and may consist of the individual's fingerprint. A foreign national who has an EAD typically has open-market employment permission, but there are exceptions. The card (Form I-766) is a legitimate I-9 document for employers.

EAD Validity Period

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

Eligibility for a Work Authorization Document

There are essentially 2 various kinds of nonimmigrants who might be qualified to request an EAD. Certain foreign nationals are licensed to work in the United States based upon their migration status. Although they are already licensed to work, they might need proof of that benefit. Examples consist of asylees and refugees. Other foreign nationals are inside the U.S. however require to request unique consent to accept employment. Examples consist of change of status applicants, DACA, asylum hunters, and certain trainees.

RECOMMENDED: List of Eligibility Categories for EAD

Permanent citizens (green card holders) do not require a Work Authorization Document. The permit is evidence of the cardholder's status and work permission. Likewise, nonimmigrants licensed to be used with a particular employer do not require 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 an Employment Authorization Document may ask for one with Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization. In many cases, the initial demand for work permission should be sent with the application for the underlying status.

Typically, a candidate ought to include the following items for an initial request:

- Form I-765
USCIS costs
- Copy of Form I-94 Arrival/Departure Record
- Two passport-style photos
- Proof of eligibility
The list above is a generalization. To put it simply, applicants need to send other particular supporting files depending on the certifying basis of eligibility. Additionally, certain preliminary I-765 demands get submitted with the main application.

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

Applicants that prepare Form I-765 through CitizenPath's service likewise receive individualized filing instructions. The filing directions will be based on your particular situation and will describe precisely what documents to send 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 permission. File a new Form I-765 and choose the "renewal" alternative. Generally, you should 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 most recent EAD is lost, stolen or damaged. File a new Form I-765 and pick the "replacement" choice. If you did not get an EAD that USCIS mailed, you can submit an inquiry on non-delivery of a card.

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