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

by Deneen Saranealis (2025-02-11)

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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. Many individuals refer to the card as a work license. 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 consist of the person's finger print. A foreign nationwide who has an EAD normally has open-market employment permission, however there are exceptions. The card (Form I-766) is a valid I-9 file for companies.


EAD Validity Period


Generally, an Employment Authorization Card is only valid up until it's expiration date. Depending upon the person's migration status, USCIS normally issues cards for a two-year duration or less. However, specific EADs held by individuals with Temporary Protected Status (TPS) and other designated classifications might be automatically extended beyond the validity date on the card.


Eligibility for a Work Authorization Document


There are basically 2 various kinds of nonimmigrants who may be qualified to request an EAD. Certain foreign nationals are licensed to operate in the United States based on their immigration status. Although they are currently authorized to work, they may need proof of that benefit. Examples consist of asylees and refugees. Other foreign nationals are inside the U.S. but need to ask for special consent to accept work. Examples consist of adjustment of status candidates, DACA, asylum applicants, and specific trainees.


RECOMMENDED: List of Eligibility Categories for EAD


Permanent citizens (permit holders) do not need an Employment Authorization Document. The green card is evidence of the cardholder's status and work permission. Likewise, nonimmigrants licensed to be used 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. Sometimes, the preliminary ask for work permission need to be sent with the application for the underlying status.


Typically, an applicant should consist of the following items for a preliminary request:


- Form I-765

USCIS costs

- Copy of Form I-94 Arrival/Departure Record

- Two passport-style images

- Proof of eligibility


The list above is a generalization. To put it simply, candidates need to submit other specific supporting documents depending on the certifying basis of eligibility. Additionally, specific initial I-765 demands get sent with the main 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 customized filing directions. The filing guidelines will be based upon your specific circumstance and will discuss exactly what files to send with Form I-765.


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


Renewal

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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" alternative. Generally, you need to 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 most current EAD is lost, taken or damaged. File a brand-new Form I-765 and select the "replacement" option. If you did not get an EAD that USCIS sent by mail, you can send a questions on non-delivery of a card.

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