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 a recognition card that U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) issues to certain certifying 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 picture of the private licensed to work and might consist of the person's fingerprint. A foreign nationwide who has an EAD generally has open-market employment permission, however there are exceptions. The card (Form I-766) is a legitimate I-9 file for employers.

EAD Validity Period

Generally, an Employment Authorization Card is just valid until it's expiration date. Depending on the person's migration status, USCIS normally concerns cards for a two-year period or less. However, particular EADs held by people with Temporary Protected Status (TPS) and other designated classifications might be immediately extended beyond the validity date on the card.

Eligibility for a Work Authorization Document

There are essentially two various types of nonimmigrants who may be qualified to ask for an EAD. Certain foreign nationals are authorized to operate in the United States based upon their immigration status. Although they are currently authorized to work, they might need proof of that advantage. Examples consist of asylees and refugees. Other foreign nationals are inside the U.S. but need to ask for unique approval to accept employment. Examples include modification of status applicants, DACA, asylum hunters, and specific trainees.

RECOMMENDED: List of Eligibility Categories for EAD

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

Typically, a candidate needs to consist of the following products for an initial demand:

- Form I-765

USCIS fees

- Copy of Form I-94 Arrival/Departure Record

- Two passport-style photos

- Proof of eligibility


The list above is a generalization. Simply put, candidates need to submit other particular supporting documents depending upon the qualifying basis of eligibility. Additionally, specific initial I-765 requests get sent with the primary application.

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

Applicants that prepare Form I-765 through CitizenPath's service also get tailored filing guidelines. The filing instructions will be based on your specific situation and will explain precisely what documents to send with Form I-765.

RECOMMENDED: How to Make an application 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 choose the "renewal" option. Generally, you ought to not apply for a renewal EAD more than 180 days before your latest EAD ends.

Replacement

You might change your Employment Authorization Document if your most current EAD is lost, stolen or ruined. File a new Form I-765 and select the "replacement" option. If you did not get an EAD that USCIS sent by mail, you can send a query on non-delivery of a card.