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

What is a Work 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) concerns to specific qualifying foreign nationals to operate in the United States. Many individuals refer to the card as a work license. At USCIS, the Employment Authorization Document is known as Form I-766.

The EAD card contains a photograph of the private authorized to work and might include the individual's finger print. A foreign national who has an EAD normally has open-market employment authorization, 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 legitimate up until it's expiration date. Depending on the individual's immigration status, USCIS typically issues cards for a two-year duration or less. However, specific EADs held by individuals with Temporary Protected Status (TPS) and other designated categories may be automatically extended beyond the credibility date on the card.

Eligibility for a Work Authorization Document

There are basically 2 different types of nonimmigrants who might be eligible to ask for an EAD. Certain foreign nationals are authorized to work in the United States based on their immigration status. Although they are already authorized to work, they might require evidence of that advantage. Examples consist of asylees and refugees. Other foreign nationals are inside the U.S. however require to request unique approval to accept employment. Examples include change of status applicants, DACA, asylum applicants, and particular trainees.

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

Typically, a candidate should include the following products for a preliminary demand:

- 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. In other words, applicants need to send other particular supporting files depending on the certifying basis of eligibility. Additionally, particular preliminary I-765 requests get submitted with the primary application.

Mistakes on your Form I-765 can trigger expensive delays or a rejection.

Applicants that prepare Form I-765 through CitizenPath's service likewise receive individualized filing directions. The filing guidelines will be based upon your specific circumstance and will explain exactly 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 qualified for work authorization. File a new Form I-765 and select the "renewal" option. Generally, you need to not apply for a renewal EAD more than 180 days before your most current EAD ends.

Replacement

You might change your Employment Authorization Document if your most current EAD is lost, taken or damaged. 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 an inquiry on non-delivery of a card.