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What is an Employment Authorization Document (Form I-766)?

by Adan Ali (2025-02-16)

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

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What is an Employment Authorization Document (Form I-766)?


May 9, 2021


An Employment Authorization Document (EAD) is an identification card that U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) problems to specific certifying foreign nationals to work in the United States. Many individuals describe the card as a work permit. At USCIS, the Employment Authorization Document is referred to as Form I-766.


The EAD card includes a picture of the specific licensed to work and might include the individual's fingerprint. A foreign nationwide who has an EAD normally has open-market employment authorization, but 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 legitimate up until it's expiration date. Depending on the individual's migration status, USCIS usually issues cards for a two-year duration or less. However, particular EADs held by people with Temporary Protected Status (TPS) and other designated classifications may be immediately extended beyond the credibility date on the card.


Eligibility for an Employment Authorization Document


There are essentially 2 different kinds of nonimmigrants who may be eligible to ask for an EAD. Certain foreign nationals are licensed to operate in the United States based upon their immigration status. Although they are already authorized to work, they may require proof of that benefit. Examples include asylees and refugees. Other foreign nationals are inside the U.S. however require to ask for unique consent to accept work. Examples consist of adjustment of status applicants, DACA, asylum candidates, and specific students.


RECOMMENDED: List of Eligibility Categories for EAD


Permanent homeowners (green card holders) do not require a Work Authorization Document. The green card is proof of the cardholder's status and work permission. Likewise, nonimmigrants licensed to be employed with a specific company do not need an EAD. Examples of nonimmigrants with this status consist of H-1B and TN visa.


RECOMMENDED: U.S. Work Visa Types for Foreign Nationals


How to Request an EAD


Foreign nationals who are qualified for a Work Authorization Document might ask for one with Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization. In some cases, the preliminary ask for work authorization should be submitted with the application for the underlying status.


Typically, an applicant should include the following items for an initial request:


- Form I-765

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- Copy of Form I-94 Arrival/Departure Record

- Two passport-style images

- Proof of eligibility


The list above is a generalization. In other words, candidates must send other specific supporting documents depending upon the certifying basis of eligibility. Additionally, specific initial I-765 demands get submitted with the primary 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 tailored filing instructions. The filing directions will be based on your particular scenario and will explain precisely what files to send out with Form I-765.


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


Renewal


You may renew your Employment Authorization Document if you are still eligible for work authorization. File a new Form I-765 and select the "renewal" option. Generally, you must not file for a renewal EAD more than 180 days before your latest EAD ends.

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Replacement


You might change your Employment Authorization Document if your newest EAD is lost, taken or ruined. File a brand-new Form I-765 and choose the "replacement" option. If you did not receive an EAD that USCIS mailed, you can submit a questions on non-delivery of a card.

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