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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

An Employment Authorization Document (EAD) is an identification card that U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) issues to particular certifying foreign nationals to operate in the United States. Lots of people refer to the card as a work permit. At USCIS, the Employment Authorization Document is understood as Form I-766.

The EAD card contains a photo of the individual licensed to work and might include the individual's finger print. A foreign national who has an EAD usually has open-market employment permission, however there are exceptions. The card (Form I-766) is a valid I-9 document for companies.

EAD Validity Period

Generally, a Work Authorization Card is just valid up until it's expiration date. Depending on the individual's immigration status, USCIS typically issues cards for a two-year duration or less. However, particular EADs held by individuals with Temporary Protected Status (TPS) and other designated categories might be immediately extended beyond the credibility date on the card.

Eligibility for an Employment Authorization Document

There are fundamentally two different types of nonimmigrants who may be eligible to request an EAD. Certain foreign nationals are authorized to operate in the United States based on their migration status. Although they are currently licensed 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 ask for unique permission to accept employment. Examples consist of change of status applicants, DACA, asylum candidates, and certain trainees.

RECOMMENDED: List of Eligibility Categories for EAD

Permanent citizens (green card holders) do not require 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 specific employer 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 an Employment Authorization Document might ask for one with Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization. In some cases, the preliminary request for work authorization should be sent with the application for the underlying status.

Typically, an applicant needs to include the following items for a preliminary request:

- Form I-765

USCIS fees

- 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 particular supporting documents depending upon the qualifying basis of eligibility. Additionally, certain initial I-765 requests get sent with the main application.

Mistakes on your Form I-765 can trigger pricey hold-ups or a denial.

Applicants that prepare Form I-765 through CitizenPath's service likewise get individualized filing instructions. The filing guidelines will be based on your particular circumstance and will describe precisely what documents to send with Form I-765.

RECOMMENDED: How to Look for a U.S. Work Permit

Renewal

You might renew your Employment Authorization Document if you are still eligible for work authorization. File a brand-new Form I-765 and choose the "renewal" option. Generally, you need to not apply for a renewal EAD more than 180 days before your latest EAD ends.

Replacement

You might replace your Employment Authorization Document if your latest EAD is lost, stolen or ruined. File a brand-new Form I-765 and select the "replacement" choice. If you did not receive an EAD that USCIS sent by mail, you can submit an inquiry on non-delivery of a card.

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