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 an identification card that U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) issues to specific qualifying foreign nationals to operate in the United States. Lots of people refer to the card as a work authorization. At USCIS, the Employment Authorization Document is known as Form I-766.

The EAD card consists of a picture of the specific licensed to work and might include the individual's fingerprint. A foreign national who has an EAD normally has open-market work permission, but there are exceptions. The card (Form I-766) is a valid I-9 document for companies.

EAD Validity Period

Generally, an Employment Authorization Card is only legitimate till it's expiration date. Depending upon the person's migration status, USCIS typically issues cards for a two-year duration or less. However, certain EADs held by people with Temporary Protected Status (TPS) and other designated categories might be automatically extended beyond the credibility date on the card.

Eligibility for an Employment 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 operate in the United States based upon their migration status. Although they are already licensed to work, they may need proof of that benefit. Examples include asylees and refugees. Other foreign nationals are inside the U.S. but require to request unique permission to accept work. Examples consist of modification of status candidates, DACA, asylum applicants, and particular students.

RECOMMENDED: List of Eligibility Categories for EAD

Permanent homeowners (permit holders) do not need a Work Authorization Document. The green card is proof of the cardholder's status and work permission. Likewise, nonimmigrants licensed to be employed with a specific employer do not require an EAD. Examples of nonimmigrants with this status include 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 ask for one with Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization. In some cases, the preliminary ask for work authorization must be submitted with the application for the underlying status.

Typically, an applicant must include the following products for an initial request:

- Form I-765

USCIS charges

- 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, candidates must send other particular supporting documents depending upon the certifying basis of eligibility. Additionally, specific initial I-765 requests get submitted with the main application.

Mistakes on your Form I-765 can cause costly hold-ups or a denial.

Applicants that prepare Form I-765 through CitizenPath's service likewise get customized filing guidelines. 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 permission. File a new Form I-765 and pick the "renewal" option. Generally, you ought to not submit for a renewal EAD more than 180 days before your most recent EAD expires.

Replacement

You may replace your Employment Authorization Document if your latest EAD is lost, stolen or destroyed. File a brand-new Form I-765 and choose the "replacement" option. If you did not receive an EAD that USCIS sent by mail, you can submit a query on non-delivery of a card.