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

What is a Work 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) issues to certain qualifying foreign nationals to operate in the United States. Many individuals describe the card as a work permit. At USCIS, the Employment Authorization Document is understood as Form I-766.

The EAD card consists of a photo of the private licensed to work and might consist of the person's finger print. A foreign nationwide who has an EAD typically has open-market work permission, but there are exceptions. The card (Form I-766) is a valid I-9 file for employers.

EAD Validity Period

Generally, an Employment Authorization Card is just valid till it's expiration date. Depending upon the individual's migration status, USCIS normally problems cards for a two-year period or less. However, particular EADs held by individuals with Temporary Protected Status (TPS) and other designated classifications may be instantly extended beyond the validity date on the card.

Eligibility for an Employment Authorization Document

There are essentially two different kinds of nonimmigrants who may be qualified to ask for an EAD. Certain foreign nationals are licensed to operate in the United States based upon their immigration status. Although they are currently licensed to work, they may need evidence of that opportunity. Examples consist of asylees and refugees. Other foreign nationals are inside the U.S. however require to request special consent to accept employment. Examples consist of change of status candidates, DACA, asylum candidates, and particular trainees.

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

Typically, a candidate ought to include the following products for a preliminary request:

- 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. In other words, applicants should send other specific 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 cause pricey delays or a denial.

Applicants that prepare Form I-765 through CitizenPath's service also get customized filing instructions. The filing guidelines will be based on your particular circumstance and will explain precisely what documents to send out with Form I-765.

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Renewal

You may restore your Employment Authorization Document if you are still eligible for work permission. File a brand-new Form I-765 and select the "renewal" alternative. Generally, you ought to not apply for a renewal EAD more than 180 days before your latest EAD expires.

Replacement

You might replace your Employment Authorization Document if your newest EAD is lost, stolen or destroyed. File a 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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