Home» What is an Employment 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) problems to specific certifying foreign nationals to operate in the United States. Many people refer to the card as a work authorization. At USCIS, the Employment Authorization Document is called Form I-766.

The EAD card contains a picture of the specific authorized to work and might consist of the individual’s fingerprint. A foreign nationwide who has an EAD typically has open-market work authorization, but there are exceptions. The card (Form I-766) is a valid I-9 file for companies.

EAD Validity Period

Generally, an Employment Authorization Card is only legitimate till it’s expiration date. Depending upon the individual’s migration status, USCIS usually concerns cards for a two-year duration or less. However, specific EADs held by people with Temporary Protected Status (TPS) and other designated categories may be automatically extended beyond the validity date on the card.

Eligibility for an Employment Authorization Document

There are essentially two various kinds of nonimmigrants who may be eligible to request an EAD. Certain foreign nationals are authorized to work in the United States based upon their immigration status. Although they are already authorized to work, they might require evidence of that opportunity. Examples include asylees and refugees. Other foreign nationals are inside the U.S. however need to ask for unique permission to accept employment. Examples consist of adjustment of status applicants, DACA, asylum applicants, and certain students.

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Permanent homeowners (permit holders) do not require an Employment Authorization Document. The permit is proof of the cardholder’s status and work permission. Likewise, nonimmigrants authorized to be employed with a specific employer do not require 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 may ask for one with Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization. In some cases, the preliminary demand for work authorization need to be sent with the application for the underlying status.

Typically, a candidate must include the following items for an initial demand:

– Form I-765
USCIS fees
– Copy of Form I-94 Arrival/Departure Record
– Two passport-style photos
– Proof of eligibility
The list above is a generalization. Simply put, applicants need to submit other particular supporting documents depending on the qualifying basis of eligibility. Additionally, certain initial I-765 demands get sent with the main application.

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

Applicants that prepare Form I-765 through CitizenPath’s service also get individualized filing guidelines. The filing instructions will be based upon your particular situation and will discuss exactly what documents to send with Form I-765.

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Renewal

You might renew your Employment Authorization Document if you are still qualified for work authorization. File a new Form I-765 and select the «renewal» alternative. Generally, you must not submit for a renewal EAD more than 180 days before your newest EAD ends.

Replacement

You might replace your Employment Authorization Document if your newest EAD is lost, taken or damaged. File a brand-new Form I-765 and pick the «replacement» alternative. If you did not get an EAD that USCIS mailed, you can send an inquiry on non-delivery of a card.