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

by Dieter Truax (2025-02-11)

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


May 9, 2021


An Employment Authorization Document (EAD) is an identification card that U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) concerns to specific certifying foreign nationals to work in the United States. Many individuals refer to the card as a work authorization. At USCIS, the Employment Authorization Document is called Form I-766.


The EAD card includes a photograph of the private authorized to work and might consist of the individual's fingerprint. A foreign nationwide who has an EAD generally has open-market employment authorization, but there are exceptions. The card (Form I-766) is a legitimate I-9 document for employers.


EAD Validity Period


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


Eligibility for a Work Authorization Document


There are fundamentally two different types of nonimmigrants who may be eligible to ask for an EAD. Certain foreign nationals are licensed to work in the United States based on their migration status. Although they are already authorized to work, they might need proof of that benefit. Examples consist of asylees and refugees. Other foreign nationals are inside the U.S. but require to ask for special approval to accept employment. Examples include adjustment of status candidates, DACA, asylum candidates, and certain students.


RECOMMENDED: List of Eligibility Categories for EAD

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Permanent homeowners (green card holders) do not need a Work Authorization Document. The permit is evidence of the cardholder's status and work permission. Likewise, nonimmigrants licensed to be employed with a specific company do not need 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 a Work Authorization Document may request one with Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization. In some cases, the initial request for work permission should be sent with the application for the underlying status.


Typically, an applicant should include the following products for an initial request:


- Form I-765

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- Copy of Form I-94 Arrival/Departure Record

- Two passport-style images

- Proof of eligibility


The list above is a generalization. In other words, applicants must submit other specific supporting documents depending upon the certifying basis of eligibility. Additionally, certain preliminary I-765 requests get submitted with the primary application.


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

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


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


Renewal

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You might renew your Employment Authorization Document if you are still qualified for work permission. File a brand-new Form I-765 and pick the "renewal" choice. Generally, you need to not apply for a renewal EAD more than 180 days before your latest EAD ends.


Replacement


You may replace your Employment Authorization Document if your most current EAD is lost, stolen or ruined. File a brand-new Form I-765 and pick the "replacement" option. 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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