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) issues to specific qualifying foreign nationals to work in the United States. Many individuals 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 photograph of the private authorized to work and may include the person's finger print. A foreign nationwide who has an EAD typically has open-market employment authorization, but there are exceptions. The card (Form I-766) is a legitimate I-9 file for employers.
EAD Validity Period
Generally, a Work Authorization Card is only legitimate up until it's expiration date. Depending on the person's immigration 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 immediately extended beyond the validity date on the card.
Eligibility for an Employment Authorization Document
There are essentially 2 different kinds of nonimmigrants who might be eligible to ask for an EAD. Certain foreign nationals are licensed to work in the United States based upon their migration status. Although they are currently authorized to work, they might need proof of that benefit. Examples include asylees and refugees. Other foreign nationals are inside the U.S. but need to ask for special consent to accept employment. Examples include change of status candidates, DACA, asylum seekers, and particular students.
RECOMMENDED: List of Eligibility Categories for EAD
Permanent residents (permit holders) do not need an Employment Authorization Document. The permit is evidence of the cardholder's status and work permission. Likewise, nonimmigrants authorized to be employed with a particular employer do not require an EAD. Examples of nonimmigrants with this status include H-1B and TN visa.
RECOMMENDED: U.S. Work Visa Types for Foreign Nationals
How to Request an EAD
Foreign nationals who are eligible for an Employment Authorization Document may request one with Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization. In many cases, the initial demand for work permission must be sent with the application for the underlying status.
Typically, an applicant needs to include the following items for an initial demand:
- 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. Simply put, applicants should submit other specific supporting documents depending upon the certifying basis of eligibility. Additionally, certain preliminary I-765 demands get sent with the primary application.
Mistakes on your Form I-765 can trigger pricey delays or a rejection.
Applicants that prepare Form I-765 through CitizenPath's service likewise get personalized filing instructions. The filing instructions will be based upon your specific circumstance and will explain precisely what files to send with Form I-765.
RECOMMENDED: How to Make an application for a U.S. Work Permit
Renewal
You might restore your Employment Authorization Document if you are still qualified for work permission. File a brand-new Form I-765 and choose the "renewal" choice. Generally, you ought to not apply for a renewal EAD more than 180 days before your newest EAD ends.
Replacement
You may change your Employment Authorization Document if your latest EAD is lost, taken or destroyed. File a brand-new Form I-765 and choose the "replacement" choice. If you did not get an EAD that USCIS sent by mail, you can send an inquiry on non-delivery of a card.
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What is A Work Authorization Document (Form I-766)?
Adriene Preiss edited this page 2025-02-11 12:52:34 +02:00