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 a recognition card that U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) issues to specific certifying foreign nationals to work in the United States. Lots of people describe the card as a work authorization. At USCIS, the Employment Authorization Document is known as Form I-766.

The EAD card includes a picture of the specific authorized to work and may include the person’s finger print. A foreign nationwide who has an EAD generally has open-market work authorization, but there are exceptions. The card (Form I-766) is a valid I-9 document for companies.

EAD Validity Period

Generally, an Employment Authorization Card is just legitimate until it’s expiration date. Depending upon the person’s migration status, USCIS typically problems cards for a two-year period or less. However, specific EADs held by individuals with Temporary Protected Status (TPS) and other designated categories might be immediately extended beyond the credibility date on the card.

Eligibility for an Employment Authorization Document

There are basically 2 various types of nonimmigrants who might be eligible to request an EAD. Certain foreign nationals are authorized to operate in the United States based on their immigration status. Although they are already licensed to work, they might need proof of that advantage. Examples include asylees and refugees. Other foreign nationals are inside the U.S. but require to ask for unique approval to accept employment. Examples include adjustment of status candidates, DACA, asylum applicants, and particular trainees.

RECOMMENDED: List of Eligibility Categories for EAD

Permanent residents (permit holders) do not require an Employment Authorization Document. The permit is evidence of the cardholder’s status and work permission. Likewise, nonimmigrants authorized to be used with a particular 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 a Work Authorization Document might request one with Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization. In many cases, the preliminary 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 demand:

- Form I-765
USCIS charges
- Copy of Form I-94 Arrival/Departure Record
- Two passport-style images
- Proof of eligibility
The list above is a generalization. In other words, candidates must send other particular supporting documents depending upon the certifying basis of eligibility. Additionally, particular initial I-765 demands get submitted with the primary application.

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

Applicants that prepare Form I-765 through CitizenPath’s service also receive tailored filing directions. The filing directions will be based upon your specific circumstance and will explain precisely what documents to send out with Form I-765.

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

Renewal

You might renew your Employment Authorization Document if you are still eligible for work authorization. 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 most recent EAD ends.

Replacement

You might replace your Employment Authorization Document if your newest EAD is lost, stolen or damaged. File a new Form I-765 and choose the “replacement” choice. If you did not receive an EAD that USCIS sent by mail, you can send an inquiry on non-delivery of a card.

employment