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

The EAD card consists of a photograph of the individual authorized to work and may include the individual'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 file for companies.

EAD Validity Period

Generally, a Work Authorization Card is only valid till it's expiration date. Depending upon the individual's immigration status, USCIS typically concerns cards for a two-year duration or less. However, particular EADs held by people with Temporary Protected Status (TPS) and other designated classifications might be automatically extended beyond the validity date on the card.

Eligibility for an Employment Authorization Document

There are essentially 2 different kinds 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 already authorized to work, they might require proof of that advantage. Examples include asylees and refugees. Other foreign nationals are inside the U.S. but need to request special authorization to accept employment. Examples consist of modification of status applicants, DACA, asylum seekers, and particular students.

RECOMMENDED: List of Eligibility Categories for EAD

Permanent residents (green card holders) do not need a Work Authorization Document. The green card is evidence of the cardholder's status and work permission. Likewise, nonimmigrants authorized to be used with a specific company do not require 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 might ask for one with Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization. In many cases, the preliminary request for work authorization should be sent with the application for the underlying status.

Typically, a candidate needs to consist of the following products for a preliminary request:

- Form I-765

USCIS charges

- 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 on the certifying basis of eligibility. Additionally, specific initial I-765 demands get sent with the primary application.

Mistakes on your Form I-765 can cause expensive delays or a denial.

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

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

Renewal

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

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" choice. 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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