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

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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) concerns to particular certifying 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 known as Form I-766.


The EAD card consists of a photograph of the specific authorized to work and may consist of the person's fingerprint. A foreign national who has an EAD usually has open-market employment permission, however there are exceptions. The card (Form I-766) is a legitimate I-9 document for companies.


EAD Validity Period


Generally, a Work Authorization Card is just legitimate till it's expiration date. Depending upon the individual's immigration status, USCIS typically issues cards for a two-year duration or less. However, certain EADs held by people with Temporary Protected Status (TPS) and other designated categories may be automatically extended beyond the credibility date on the card.


Eligibility for an Employment Authorization Document


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


RECOMMENDED: List of Eligibility Categories for EAD


Permanent residents (permit holders) do not need an Employment Authorization Document. The green card is evidence of the cardholder's status and work permission. Likewise, nonimmigrants authorized to be used with a particular company 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

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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 initial request for work authorization must be submitted with the application for the underlying status.


Typically, a candidate must consist of the following items for a preliminary demand:


- 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 need to send other particular supporting documents depending on the certifying basis of eligibility. Additionally, particular initial I-765 requests get submitted with the main application.


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


Applicants that prepare Form I-765 through CitizenPath's service likewise get individualized filing guidelines. The filing directions will be based on your specific scenario and will describe exactly what files to send with Form I-765.


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


Renewal


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

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Replacement


You might replace your Employment Authorization Document if your newest EAD is lost, taken or ruined. File a brand-new Form I-765 and pick the "replacement" choice. If you did not receive an EAD that USCIS mailed, you can send an inquiry on non-delivery of a card.

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