Home" What is an Employment Authorization Document (Form I-766)?

What is an Employment 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) issues to certain certifying 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 includes a photograph of the specific authorized to work and might consist of the person's finger print. A foreign nationwide who has an EAD usually has open-market employment authorization, however there are exceptions. The card (Form I-766) is a legitimate I-9 file for companies.

EAD Validity Period

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

Eligibility for a Work Authorization Document

There are basically 2 different kinds of nonimmigrants who might be qualified to ask for an EAD. Certain foreign nationals are authorized to operate in the United States based on their immigration status. Although they are already authorized 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 ask for unique authorization to accept employment. Examples consist of modification of status applicants, DACA, asylum seekers, and specific students.

RECOMMENDED: List of Eligibility Categories for EAD

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

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

- 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. In other words, candidates need to send other particular supporting documents depending on the qualifying basis of eligibility. Additionally, certain initial I-765 requests get sent with the primary application.

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

Applicants that prepare Form I-765 through CitizenPath's service likewise get personalized filing guidelines. The filing directions will be based upon your particular scenario and will discuss 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 qualified for work permission. File a new Form I-765 and choose the "renewal" option. Generally, you must not declare a renewal EAD more than 180 days before your newest EAD ends.

Replacement

You might change your Employment Authorization Document if your most recent EAD is lost, stolen or destroyed. File a new Form I-765 and pick the "replacement" alternative. If you did not get an EAD that USCIS sent by mail, you can send an inquiry on non-delivery of a card.