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

The EAD card consists of a photo of the private authorized to work and might consist of the individual's fingerprint. A foreign nationwide who has an EAD normally has open-market work authorization, 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 legitimate till it's expiration date. Depending on the individual's migration status, USCIS normally concerns 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 credibility date on the card.

Eligibility for an Employment Authorization Document

There are fundamentally two different kinds of nonimmigrants who may be eligible to ask for an EAD. Certain foreign nationals are authorized to work in the United States based on their migration status. Although they are already authorized to work, they may need evidence of that benefit. Examples include asylees and refugees. Other foreign nationals are inside the U.S. but require to ask for unique authorization to accept employment. Examples include change of status candidates, DACA, asylum candidates, and specific students.

RECOMMENDED: List of Eligibility Categories for EAD

Permanent homeowners (green card holders) do not need a Work Authorization Document. The permit is evidence of the cardholder's status and work permission. Likewise, nonimmigrants authorized to be employed with a particular company 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 a Work Authorization Document may request one with Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization. In some cases, the preliminary demand for work authorization should be submitted with the application for the underlying status.

Typically, an applicant must 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 images
- Proof of eligibility
The list above is a generalization. To put it simply, candidates need to submit other particular supporting files 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 expensive hold-ups or a rejection.

Applicants that prepare Form I-765 through CitizenPath's service likewise receive tailored filing directions. The filing guidelines will be based on your specific scenario and will discuss exactly what documents to send 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 authorization. File a brand-new Form I-765 and choose the "renewal" choice. Generally, you need to not file for a renewal EAD more than 180 days before your newest EAD ends.

Replacement

You might change your Employment Authorization Document if your newest EAD is lost, stolen or damaged. File a new Form I-765 and select the "replacement" alternative. If you did not receive an EAD that USCIS sent by mail, you can submit a questions on non-delivery of a card.

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