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

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

May 9, 2021

An Employment Authorization Document (EAD) is a recognition card that U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) concerns to certain qualifying foreign nationals to work in the United States. Lots of people describe the card as a work license. At USCIS, the Employment Authorization Document is called Form I-766.

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

EAD Validity Period

Generally, a Work Authorization Card is just valid till it's expiration date. Depending on the individual'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 categories may be immediately extended beyond the validity date on the card.

Eligibility for an Employment Authorization Document

There are basically two different kinds of nonimmigrants who may be eligible to ask for an EAD. Certain foreign nationals are licensed to work in the United States based on their immigration status. Although they are currently licensed to work, they may need evidence of that benefit. Examples consist of asylees and refugees. Other foreign nationals are inside the U.S. however require to ask for unique permission to accept work. Examples consist of adjustment of status candidates, DACA, asylum hunters, and certain trainees.

RECOMMENDED: List of Eligibility Categories for EAD

Permanent homeowners (green card holders) do not require an Employment Authorization Document. The green card is evidence of the cardholder's status and work permission. Likewise, nonimmigrants authorized to be employed with a specific 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 qualified for an Employment Authorization Document may ask for one with Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization. In many cases, the preliminary demand for work permission must be sent with the application for the underlying status.

Typically, a candidate must include the following items for a preliminary request:

- Form I-765
USCIS costs
- Copy of Form I-94 Arrival/Departure Record
- Two passport-style photos
- Proof of eligibility
The list above is a generalization. In other words, candidates should submit other particular supporting documents depending upon the certifying basis of eligibility. Additionally, specific preliminary I-765 requests get submitted with the main application.

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

Applicants that prepare Form I-765 through CitizenPath's service also get tailored filing directions. The filing instructions will be based upon your particular circumstance and will explain exactly what files to send with Form I-765.

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

Renewal

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

Replacement

You may replace your Employment Authorization Document if your most current EAD is lost, stolen or damaged. File a new Form I-765 and select the "replacement" alternative. If you did not get an EAD that USCIS mailed, you can send a query on non-delivery of a card.
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