Home" What is an Employment 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 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 called Form I-766.

The EAD card includes a photograph of the specific authorized to work and may consist of the individual's finger print. A foreign national who has an EAD typically has open-market employment permission, however there are exceptions. The card (Form I-766) is a valid I-9 document for employers.

EAD Validity Period

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

Eligibility for an Employment Authorization Document

There are essentially 2 various types of nonimmigrants who may be qualified to request an EAD. Certain foreign nationals are authorized to operate in the United States based upon their immigration status. Although they are currently authorized to work, they may need evidence of that advantage. Examples consist of asylees and refugees. Other foreign nationals are inside the U.S. however need to request special approval to accept employment. Examples consist of adjustment of status applicants, DACA, asylum hunters, and certain 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 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 might request one with Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization. In some cases, the initial ask for work permission must be sent with the application for the underlying status.

Typically, an applicant should consist of the following products for a preliminary demand:

- Form I-765

USCIS charges

- Copy of Form I-94 Arrival/Departure Record

- Two passport-style pictures

- Proof of eligibility


The list above is a generalization. Simply put, candidates must send other specific supporting files depending upon the certifying basis of eligibility. Additionally, specific initial I-765 requests get sent with the main application.

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

Applicants that prepare Form I-765 through CitizenPath's service also receive customized filing directions. The filing directions will be based on your specific scenario and will describe exactly what documents to send out with Form I-765.

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Renewal

You might restore your Employment Authorization Document if you are still eligible for work authorization. File a new Form I-765 and pick the "renewal" alternative. Generally, you need to not apply for a renewal EAD more than 180 days before your most recent EAD expires.

Replacement

You might replace your Employment Authorization Document if your latest EAD is lost, stolen or ruined. File a new Form I-765 and pick the "replacement" choice. If you did not get an EAD that USCIS mailed, you can send an inquiry on non-delivery of a card.