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

by Arlette Griffis (2025-02-11)

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

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

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May 9, 2021


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


The EAD card contains a photograph of the individual licensed to work and may include the person's fingerprint. A foreign national who has an EAD typically has open-market work authorization, however there are exceptions. The card (Form I-766) is a valid I-9 file for employers.


EAD Validity Period


Generally, a Work Authorization Card is just valid till it's expiration date. Depending on the individual's immigration status, USCIS generally concerns cards for a two-year period or less. However, certain EADs held by individuals with Temporary Protected Status (TPS) and other designated categories might be automatically extended beyond the validity date on the card.


Eligibility for an Employment Authorization Document


There are basically 2 various types of nonimmigrants who might be qualified to ask for an EAD. Certain foreign nationals are licensed to work in the United States based on their migration status. Although they are currently authorized to work, they may need proof of that advantage. Examples consist of asylees and refugees. Other foreign nationals are inside the U.S. but require to ask for unique permission to accept work. Examples consist of adjustment of status applicants, DACA, asylum applicants, and specific students.


RECOMMENDED: List of Eligibility Categories for EAD


Permanent homeowners (permit holders) do not require a Work Authorization Document. The permit is proof of the cardholder's status and work authorization. Likewise, nonimmigrants authorized to be utilized 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 qualified for an Employment Authorization Document may request one with Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization. In many cases, the preliminary ask for work authorization should be submitted with the application for the underlying status.


Typically, an applicant needs to 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. In other words, candidates must submit other particular supporting files depending on the certifying basis of eligibility. Additionally, particular preliminary I-765 demands get sent with the main application.


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


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


RECOMMENDED: How to Make an application for a U.S. Work Permit


Renewal


You may restore your Employment Authorization Document if you are still qualified for work authorization. File a new Form I-765 and pick the "renewal" alternative. Generally, you must not apply for a renewal EAD more than 180 days before your latest EAD expires.

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Replacement


You might replace your Employment Authorization Document if your latest EAD is lost, taken or destroyed. File a new Form I-765 and pick the "replacement" option. If you did not receive an EAD that USCIS sent by mail, you can send a questions on non-delivery of a card.

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