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 a recognition card that U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) concerns to particular 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 contains a picture of the specific authorized to work and may consist of the person's fingerprint. A foreign nationwide who has an EAD usually has open-market employment permission, but there are exceptions. The card (Form I-766) is a valid I-9 file for employers.

EAD Validity Period

Generally, a Work Authorization Card is only legitimate until it's expiration date. Depending on the individual's immigration status, USCIS generally problems cards for a two-year duration or less. However, specific EADs held by people with Temporary Protected Status (TPS) and other designated categories might be instantly extended beyond the validity date on the card.

Eligibility for an Employment Authorization Document

There are basically two various types of nonimmigrants who may be eligible to request an EAD. Certain foreign nationals are authorized to work in the United States based on their migration status. Although they are currently authorized to work, they might need proof of that opportunity. Examples consist of asylees and refugees. Other foreign nationals are inside the U.S. but need to ask for unique consent to accept employment. Examples consist of adjustment of status applicants, DACA, asylum candidates, and particular students.

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Permanent locals (permit holders) do not need an Employment Authorization Document. The permit is evidence of the cardholder's status and work permission. Likewise, nonimmigrants licensed to be employed with a particular 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 might ask for one with Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization. Sometimes, the preliminary ask for work authorization should be submitted with the application for the underlying status.

Typically, an applicant must consist of the following items for an initial request:

- 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, candidates need to send other particular supporting documents depending on the certifying basis of eligibility. Additionally, specific preliminary I-765 demands get sent with the primary application.

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

Applicants that prepare Form I-765 through CitizenPath's service also get personalized filing guidelines. The filing instructions will be based upon your specific situation 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 select the "renewal" alternative. Generally, you ought to not declare a renewal EAD more than 180 days before your most current EAD expires.

Replacement

You may change your Employment Authorization Document if your most recent EAD is lost, stolen or damaged. File a new Form I-765 and pick the "replacement" option. If you did not receive an EAD that USCIS mailed, you can submit an inquiry on non-delivery of a card.