Reader Comments

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

by Forest Christmas (2025-02-11)

 |  Post Reply

professional-workers-different-jobs-prof

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

no-college-cover.png

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

1-Freelance-Jobs.jpeg?fit=fill&q=80&fm=j

May 9, 2021


A Work Authorization Document (EAD) is an identification card that U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) concerns to particular qualifying 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 referred to as Form I-766.


The EAD card consists of a photograph of the specific licensed to work and may include the person's finger print. A foreign nationwide who has an EAD normally has open-market employment permission, but there are exceptions. The card (Form I-766) is a legitimate I-9 file for companies.


EAD Validity Period


Generally, a Work Authorization Card is only valid till it's expiration date. Depending on the individual's immigration status, USCIS usually issues 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 immediately extended beyond the credibility date on the card.


Eligibility for an Employment Authorization Document


There are fundamentally 2 different types of nonimmigrants who may be qualified to request an EAD. Certain foreign nationals are authorized to work in the United States based on their immigration status. Although they are currently licensed to work, they may need proof of that advantage. Examples consist of asylees and refugees. Other foreign nationals are inside the U.S. however need to request unique consent to accept work. Examples include adjustment of status candidates, DACA, asylum seekers, and certain trainees.


RECOMMENDED: List of Eligibility Categories for EAD


Permanent residents (green card holders) do not require a Work Authorization Document. The permit is proof of the cardholder's status and work permission. Likewise, nonimmigrants licensed 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


Foreign nationals who are eligible for an Employment Authorization Document might request one with Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization. Sometimes, the initial ask for work authorization should be submitted with the application for the underlying status.


Typically, an applicant ought to consist of the following products for a preliminary demand:


- Form I-765

USCIS fees

- Copy of Form I-94 Arrival/Departure Record

- Two passport-style photos

- Proof of eligibility


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


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


Applicants that prepare Form I-765 through CitizenPath's service also get personalized filing guidelines. The filing instructions will be based on your specific scenario and will explain exactly what documents to send out with Form I-765.


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


Renewal


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

not-found.png

Replacement


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

betterteam-free-job-posting-sites-5877x3

employment

employment

employment

Add comment