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

What is an Employment 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) problems to certain 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 referred to as Form I-766.

The EAD card includes a picture of the individual licensed to work and might include the person's finger print. A foreign national who has an EAD normally has open-market employment authorization, however there are exceptions. The card (Form I-766) is a legitimate I-9 file for employers.

EAD Validity Period

Generally, an Employment Authorization Card is just valid up until it's expiration date. Depending upon the person's migration status, USCIS normally issues cards for a two-year period or less. However, specific EADs held by individuals with Temporary Protected Status (TPS) and other designated classifications may be immediately extended beyond the validity date on the card.

Eligibility for a Work Authorization Document

There are fundamentally two different types of nonimmigrants who might be qualified to ask for an EAD. Certain foreign nationals are authorized to operate in the United States based upon their migration status. Although they are currently authorized to work, they may require evidence of that benefit. Examples include asylees and refugees. Other foreign nationals are inside the U.S. but need to request special authorization to accept work. Examples include adjustment of status applicants, DACA, asylum seekers, and certain students.

RECOMMENDED: List of Eligibility Categories for EAD

Permanent homeowners (green card holders) do not require a Work Authorization Document. The permit is proof of the cardholder's status and work authorization. Likewise, nonimmigrants licensed to be used 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 a Work Authorization Document may request one with Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization. Sometimes, the initial ask for work authorization need to be submitted with the application for the underlying status.

Typically, an applicant must consist of the following products for an initial 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. To put it simply, applicants must send other particular supporting files depending on the certifying basis of eligibility. Additionally, particular initial I-765 demands get submitted with the main application.

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

Applicants that prepare Form I-765 through CitizenPath's service also receive personalized filing guidelines. The filing directions will be based on your specific situation and will discuss precisely what files to send with Form I-765.

RECOMMENDED: How to Obtain a U.S. Work Permit

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" alternative. Generally, you must not submit for a renewal EAD more than 180 days before your most current EAD ends.

Replacement

You might change your Employment Authorization Document if your latest EAD is lost, stolen or damaged. 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 a query on non-delivery of a card.

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