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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

A Work Authorization Document (EAD) is an identification card that U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) problems to certain qualifying foreign nationals to work in the United States. Many people refer to the card as a work license. At USCIS, the Employment Authorization Document is referred to as Form I-766.

The EAD card contains a picture of the individual authorized to work and may include the person's fingerprint. A foreign national who has an EAD generally has open-market work authorization, however 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 legitimate 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 instantly extended beyond the validity date on the card.

Eligibility for an Employment Authorization Document

There are basically 2 different kinds of nonimmigrants who might be qualified to ask for an EAD. Certain foreign nationals are licensed to operate in the United States based on their migration status. Although they are currently authorized to work, they might need evidence of that advantage. Examples include asylees and refugees. Other foreign nationals are inside the U.S. however need to ask for unique consent to accept employment. Examples consist of adjustment of status candidates, DACA, asylum applicants, and particular trainees.

RECOMMENDED: List of Eligibility Categories for EAD

Permanent locals (permit holders) do not require a Work Authorization Document. The permit is evidence of the cardholder's status and work authorization. Likewise, nonimmigrants authorized to be employed with a particular employer 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

How to Request an EAD

Foreign nationals who are eligible for a Work Authorization Document may request one with Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization. In some cases, the initial demand for work permission must be sent with the application for the underlying status.

Typically, an applicant needs to include the following items for an initial demand:

- 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. In other words, applicants must submit other specific supporting files depending on the qualifying basis of eligibility. Additionally, certain preliminary I-765 requests get sent with the main application.

Mistakes on your Form I-765 can trigger costly hold-ups or a rejection.

Applicants that prepare Form I-765 through CitizenPath's service likewise receive tailored filing guidelines. The filing guidelines will be based on your particular scenario and will explain exactly what files to send with Form I-765.

RECOMMENDED: How to Make an application for a U.S. Work Permit

Renewal

You may restore your Employment Authorization Document if you are still qualified for work authorization. File a brand-new Form I-765 and select the "renewal" choice. Generally, you must not apply for a renewal EAD more than 180 days before your most recent EAD ends.

Replacement

You might replace your Employment Authorization Document if your latest EAD is lost, stolen or destroyed. File a new Form I-765 and pick the "replacement" option. If you did not get an EAD that USCIS sent by mail, you can send an inquiry on non-delivery of a card.

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