Home" What is a Work Authorization Document (Form I-766)?
What is an Employment Authorization Document (Form I-766)?
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 individuals refer to the card as a work permit. At USCIS, the Employment Authorization Document is known as Form I-766.
The EAD card consists of a photo of the individual authorized to work and may include the individual's fingerprint. A foreign national who has an EAD typically has open-market employment authorization, however there are exceptions. The card (Form I-766) is a valid I-9 file for employers.
EAD Validity Period
Generally, a Work Authorization Card is just valid till it's expiration date. Depending on the person's immigration status, USCIS normally problems cards for a two-year period or less. However, certain EADs held by people with Temporary Protected Status (TPS) and other designated classifications may be immediately extended beyond the credibility date on the card.
Eligibility for a Work Authorization Document
There are essentially two various types of nonimmigrants who might be qualified to ask for an EAD. Certain foreign nationals are authorized to operate in the United States based upon their migration status. Although they are already licensed to work, they may require proof of that opportunity. Examples include asylees and refugees. Other foreign nationals are inside the U.S. but need to request special consent to accept work. Examples include modification of status candidates, DACA, asylum seekers, and certain trainees.
RECOMMENDED: List of Eligibility Categories for EAD
Permanent residents (green card holders) do not require an Employment Authorization Document. The permit is proof of the cardholder's status and work authorization. Likewise, nonimmigrants licensed to be utilized with a particular employer do not need an EAD. Examples of nonimmigrants with this status consist of H-1B and TN visa.
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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. In many cases, the initial ask for work permission need to be sent with the application for the underlying status.
Typically, an applicant should consist of the following products for a preliminary 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 must submit other particular supporting files depending on the certifying basis of eligibility. Additionally, specific preliminary I-765 demands get submitted with the main application.
Mistakes on your Form I-765 can cause pricey hold-ups or a denial.
Applicants that prepare Form I-765 through CitizenPath's service also receive tailored filing guidelines. The filing directions will be based on your specific situation and will describe exactly what documents 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 qualified for work authorization. File a brand-new Form I-765 and pick the "renewal" choice. Generally, you should not declare a renewal EAD more than 180 days before your latest EAD expires.
Replacement
You might change your Employment Authorization Document if your newest EAD is lost, stolen or damaged. 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 submit a questions on non-delivery of a card.
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What is an Employment Authorization Document (Form I-766)?
Andres Snook edited this page 2025-02-10 02:53:36 +07:00