Home" What is a Work 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) problems to certain certifying foreign nationals to operate in the United States. Lots of people describe the card as a work license. At USCIS, the Employment Authorization Document is called Form I-766.
The EAD card consists of a photograph of the individual licensed to work and may include the person's fingerprint. A foreign national who has an EAD generally has open-market employment permission, however there are exceptions. The card (Form I-766) is a legitimate I-9 document for employers.
EAD Validity Period
Generally, an Employment Authorization Card is just valid until it's expiration date. Depending upon the person's migration status, USCIS usually issues cards for a two-year period or less. However, specific EADs held by individuals with Temporary Protected Status (TPS) and other designated categories might be automatically extended beyond the credibility date on the card.
Eligibility for an Employment Authorization Document
There are essentially two different types of nonimmigrants who may be qualified to ask for an EAD. Certain foreign nationals are authorized to work in the United States based on their immigration status. Although they are currently licensed to work, they may need proof of that opportunity. Examples include asylees and refugees. Other foreign nationals are inside the U.S. however require to request special authorization to accept employment. Examples consist of adjustment of status candidates, DACA, asylum seekers, and certain trainees.
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Permanent homeowners (permit holders) do not need an Employment Authorization Document. The green card is evidence of the cardholder's status and work authorization. Likewise, nonimmigrants authorized to be used with a particular 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 qualified for an Employment Authorization Document might ask for one with Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization. In many cases, the preliminary ask for work authorization should be sent with the application for the underlying status.
Typically, a candidate should include the following products for an initial demand:
- Form I-765
USCIS charges
- Copy of Form I-94 Arrival/Departure Record
- Two passport-style images
- 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 preliminary I-765 requests get submitted with the primary application.
Mistakes on your Form I-765 can cause expensive hold-ups or a rejection.
Applicants that prepare Form I-765 through CitizenPath's service also receive personalized filing instructions. The filing instructions will be based upon your specific situation and will explain exactly what files to send out with Form I-765.
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Renewal
You might restore your Employment Authorization Document if you are still qualified for work permission. File a new Form I-765 and choose the "renewal" alternative. Generally, you need to not file for a renewal EAD more than 180 days before your latest EAD ends.
Replacement
You might change your Employment Authorization Document if your latest EAD is lost, stolen or damaged. File a brand-new Form I-765 and select the "replacement" alternative. If you did not receive an EAD that USCIS sent by mail, you can submit a query on non-delivery of a card.
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What is an Employment Authorization Document (Form I-766)?
Agnes Seals edited this page 2025-02-11 15:17:33 +02:00