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

by Elliot Ralston (2025-02-11)

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Home" What is a Work Authorization Document (Form I-766)?


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

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May 9, 2021

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A Work Authorization Document (EAD) is an identification card that U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) issues to specific qualifying foreign nationals to operate 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.

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The EAD card consists of a photo of the private licensed to work and may consist of the person's fingerprint. A foreign nationwide who has an EAD typically has open-market employment authorization, but there are exceptions. The card (Form I-766) is a legitimate I-9 file for employers.


EAD Validity Period


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


Eligibility for an Employment Authorization Document


There are fundamentally 2 various kinds of nonimmigrants who might be eligible to ask for an EAD. Certain foreign nationals are authorized to operate in the United States based on their immigration status. Although they are currently authorized to work, they may require evidence of that opportunity. Examples include asylees and refugees. Other foreign nationals are inside the U.S. but need to request unique authorization to accept work. Examples include adjustment of status applicants, DACA, asylum candidates, and particular trainees.


RECOMMENDED: List of Eligibility Categories for EAD

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Permanent locals (green card holders) do not need a Work Authorization Document. The green card is proof of the cardholder's status and work authorization. Likewise, nonimmigrants authorized to be used with a particular 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 an Employment Authorization Document might ask for one with Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization. Sometimes, the initial ask for work permission must be submitted with the application for the underlying status.

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Typically, a candidate should include the following items for an initial demand:

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- 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 should send other particular supporting documents depending on the certifying basis of eligibility. Additionally, certain preliminary I-765 demands get sent with the primary 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 also receive individualized filing guidelines. The filing guidelines will be based on your particular scenario and will describe exactly what files to send out with Form I-765.


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


Renewal


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


Replacement


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



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