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What is A Work Authorization Document (Form I-766)?

by Silas Hargraves (2025-02-10)

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


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


May 9, 2021

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A Work Authorization Document (EAD) is an identification card that U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) concerns to certain certifying foreign nationals to operate 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 consists of a photograph of the specific authorized to work and may include the individual's fingerprint. A foreign national who has an EAD generally has open-market employment permission, 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 until it's expiration date. Depending on the individual's immigration status, USCIS usually concerns cards for a two-year duration or less. However, particular EADs held by individuals with Temporary Protected Status (TPS) and other designated categories may be automatically extended beyond the credibility date on the card.

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Eligibility for an Employment Authorization Document


There are basically 2 various kinds of nonimmigrants who may be qualified to ask for an EAD. Certain foreign nationals are authorized to operate in the United States based on their migration status. Although they are already authorized to work, they may need proof of that privilege. Examples consist of asylees and refugees. Other foreign nationals are inside the U.S. however need to request special permission to accept work. Examples include adjustment of status candidates, DACA, asylum candidates, and specific students.

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RECOMMENDED: List of Eligibility Categories for EAD


Permanent citizens (permit holders) do not require an Employment Authorization Document. The permit is evidence of the cardholder's status and work permission. Likewise, nonimmigrants authorized 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 eligible for a Work Authorization Document may request one with Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization. Sometimes, the preliminary demand for work authorization must be submitted with the application for the underlying status.


Typically, a candidate must include the following items for a preliminary request:

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- Form I-765

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- 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 files depending upon the certifying basis of eligibility. Additionally, specific initial I-765 requests get submitted with the main application.

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Mistakes on your Form I-765 can trigger expensive hold-ups or a rejection.


Applicants that prepare Form I-765 through CitizenPath's service likewise receive individualized filing instructions. The filing directions will be based upon your particular scenario and will discuss precisely what documents to send with Form I-765.


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


Renewal


You may renew your Employment Authorization Document if you are still eligible for work permission. File a new Form I-765 and select the "renewal" choice. Generally, you need to not apply for a renewal EAD more than 180 days before your most recent EAD expires.


Replacement


You may replace your Employment Authorization Document if your newest EAD is lost, taken or damaged. File a new Form I-765 and select the "replacement" option. If you did not receive an EAD that USCIS mailed, you can submit a query on non-delivery of a card.

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