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

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What is a Work 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) issues to particular certifying 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 referred to as Form I-766.

The EAD card includes a photo of the individual authorized to work and might consist of the individual’s fingerprint. A foreign nationwide who has an EAD usually has open-market work permission, however there are exceptions. The card (Form I-766) is a valid I-9 file for companies.

EAD Validity Period

Generally, an Employment Authorization Card is only valid until it’s expiration date. Depending on the individual’s immigration status, USCIS normally concerns cards for a two-year period or less. However, certain 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 fundamentally 2 different kinds of nonimmigrants who may be eligible to ask for an EAD. Certain foreign nationals are authorized to operate in the United States based on their migration status. Although they are currently licensed to work, they may require proof of that privilege. Examples consist of asylees and refugees. Other foreign nationals are inside the U.S. however need to request special authorization to accept work. Examples include change of status applicants, DACA, asylum hunters, and particular students.

RECOMMENDED: List of Eligibility Categories for EAD

Permanent locals (permit holders) do not require a Work Authorization Document. The permit is proof of the cardholder’s status and work authorization. Likewise, nonimmigrants licensed to be used with a specific employer do not require 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 request one with Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization. Sometimes, the initial ask for work permission must be submitted with the application for the underlying status.

Typically, a candidate should include the following products for an initial 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 need to send other specific supporting documents depending on the qualifying basis of eligibility. Additionally, specific preliminary I-765 demands get submitted with the main 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 get individualized filing instructions. The filing directions will be based on your specific circumstance and will describe exactly what documents to send with Form I-765.

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

Renewal

You may renew your Employment Authorization Document if you are still qualified for work permission. File a new Form I-765 and pick the « renewal » option. Generally, you must not declare a renewal EAD more than 180 days before your latest EAD expires.

Replacement

You may change your Employment Authorization Document if your latest EAD is lost, stolen or ruined. File a new Form I-765 and select the « replacement » choice. If you did not get an EAD that USCIS mailed, you can submit a query on non-delivery of a card.

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