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

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) concerns 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 referred to as Form I-766.

The EAD card includes a photo of the specific licensed to work and might consist of the individual's finger print. A foreign nationwide who has an EAD typically 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 up until it's expiration date. Depending on the individual's migration status, USCIS usually problems cards for a two-year duration or less. However, specific EADs held by individuals with Temporary Protected Status (TPS) and other designated categories may be instantly extended beyond the credibility date on the card.

Eligibility for an Employment Authorization Document

There are fundamentally 2 different types of nonimmigrants who might be qualified 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 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 authorization to accept employment. Examples include adjustment of status candidates, DACA, asylum applicants, and certain students.

RECOMMENDED: List of Eligibility Categories for EAD

Permanent homeowners (green card holders) do not require an Employment Authorization Document. The permit is evidence of the cardholder's status and work authorization. Likewise, nonimmigrants licensed to be used 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 eligible for a Work Authorization Document may ask for one with Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization. Sometimes, the preliminary request for work authorization need to be submitted with the application for the underlying status.

Typically, a candidate should consist of the following items for an initial request:

- 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. Simply put, candidates should submit other particular supporting files depending on the certifying basis of eligibility. Additionally, specific preliminary I-765 requests get sent with the primary application.

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

Applicants that prepare Form I-765 through CitizenPath's service also receive personalized filing instructions. The filing instructions will be based upon your specific circumstance and will explain precisely what files to send out with Form I-765.

RECOMMENDED: How to Apply for a U.S. Work Permit

Renewal

You might restore your Employment Authorization Document if you are still eligible for work authorization. File a brand-new Form I-765 and select the "renewal" alternative. Generally, you should not file for a renewal EAD more than 180 days before your latest EAD expires.

Replacement

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