Reader Comments

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

by Annis Frawley (2025-02-20)

 |  Post Reply

Jobs-in-Dubai-1.jpg

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

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

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

jobs-that-require-no-degree.png

May 9, 2021


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

kids-in-professional-uniform-children-do

The EAD card contains a photo of the specific authorized to work and might consist of the individual's fingerprint. A foreign national who has an EAD usually has open-market work authorization, but there are exceptions. The card (Form I-766) is a valid I-9 document for employers.


EAD Validity Period


Generally, a Work Authorization Card is just valid up until it's expiration date. Depending on the person's immigration status, USCIS normally 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 credibility date on the card.


Eligibility for an Employment Authorization Document


There are fundamentally two different types of nonimmigrants who might be eligible to request an EAD. Certain foreign nationals are licensed to work in the United States based on their immigration status. Although they are already authorized to work, they may need evidence of that opportunity. Examples consist of asylees and refugees. Other foreign nationals are inside the U.S. however require to request special authorization to accept work. Examples consist of change of status candidates, DACA, asylum seekers, and specific trainees.


RECOMMENDED: List of Eligibility Categories for EAD

not-found.png

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


Typically, a candidate ought to include the following items for a preliminary demand:


- Form I-765

USCIS charges

- Copy of Form I-94 Arrival/Departure Record

- Two passport-style pictures

- Proof of eligibility


The list above is a generalization. To put it simply, candidates should send other particular supporting files depending upon the certifying basis of eligibility. Additionally, specific preliminary I-765 requests 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 get personalized filing guidelines. The filing instructions will be based upon your particular situation and will describe precisely what documents to send out with Form I-765.


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


Renewal


You might renew your Employment Authorization Document if you are still qualified for work permission. File a new Form I-765 and choose the "renewal" alternative. Generally, you need to not declare a renewal EAD more than 180 days before your most recent EAD expires.

Pointofsale_jobs.jpg

Replacement


You may change your Employment Authorization Document if your newest EAD is lost, stolen or ruined. File a brand-new Form I-765 and pick 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.

Job-Search.jpg

employment

employment

employment

Add comment