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

by Silas Hargraves (2025-02-17)

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


May 9, 2021


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


The EAD card includes a photo of the private authorized to work and might consist of the person's finger print. A foreign national who has an EAD typically has open-market employment permission, but there are exceptions. The card (Form I-766) is a valid I-9 document for employers.

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EAD Validity Period


Generally, a Work Authorization Card is only legitimate till it's expiration date. Depending upon the person's migration status, USCIS generally problems cards for a two-year period or less. However, certain EADs held by people with Temporary Protected Status (TPS) and other designated classifications might be immediately extended beyond the credibility date on the card.


Eligibility for a Work Authorization Document


There are basically two various types of nonimmigrants who might be eligible to request an EAD. Certain foreign nationals are authorized to operate in the United States based upon their immigration status. Although they are already licensed to work, they may need proof of that privilege. Examples consist of asylees and refugees. Other foreign nationals are inside the U.S. but require to ask for unique approval to accept employment. Examples consist of modification of status applicants, DACA, asylum candidates, and certain trainees.


RECOMMENDED: List of Eligibility Categories for EAD


Permanent homeowners (green card holders) do not need a Work Authorization Document. The green card is evidence of the cardholder's status and work authorization. Likewise, nonimmigrants licensed to be used 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

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How to Request an EAD

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Foreign nationals who are qualified for an Employment Authorization Document may ask for one with Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization. In many cases, the preliminary demand for work authorization must be sent with the application for the underlying status.


Typically, an applicant must consist of the following products for a preliminary request:


- Form I-765

USCIS costs

- Copy of Form I-94 Arrival/Departure Record

- Two passport-style pictures

- Proof of eligibility


The list above is a generalization. Simply put, candidates must send other specific supporting files depending upon the certifying basis of eligibility. Additionally, certain initial I-765 requests get sent with the main 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 likewise get customized filing guidelines. The filing instructions will be based on your specific circumstance and will explain precisely what documents to send with Form I-765.


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


Renewal


You may renew your Employment Authorization Document if you are still qualified for work authorization. File a brand-new Form I-765 and select the "renewal" alternative. Generally, you need to not declare a renewal EAD more than 180 days before your latest EAD expires.


Replacement


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



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