Home” What is a Work Authorization Document (Form I-766)?

What is a Work 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) concerns to particular qualifying foreign nationals to work in the United States. Many individuals describe the card as a work authorization. At USCIS, the Employment Authorization Document is known as Form I-766.

The EAD card contains a picture of the private authorized to work and might include the person’s fingerprint. A foreign nationwide who has an EAD normally has open-market employment permission, however there are exceptions. The card (Form I-766) is a valid I-9 document for companies.

EAD Validity Period

Generally, a Work Authorization Card is only legitimate till it’s expiration date. Depending on the individual’s migration status, USCIS usually concerns cards for a two-year duration or less. However, particular EADs held by individuals with Temporary Protected Status (TPS) and other designated categories might be instantly extended beyond the credibility date on the card.

Eligibility for an Employment Authorization Document

There are essentially two various types of nonimmigrants who may be qualified to ask for an EAD. Certain foreign nationals are licensed to operate in the United States based upon their migration status. Although they are already authorized to work, they might need proof of that privilege. Examples include asylees and refugees. Other foreign nationals are inside the U.S. but require to request special consent to accept employment. Examples include modification of status candidates, DACA, asylum seekers, and specific trainees.

RECOMMENDED: List of Eligibility Categories for EAD

Permanent residents (green card holders) do not require a Work Authorization Document. The permit is evidence 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 ask for one with Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization. In many cases, the initial ask for work authorization must be submitted with the application for the underlying status.

Typically, a candidate needs to consist of 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. To put it simply, candidates need to submit other specific supporting documents depending on the qualifying basis of eligibility. Additionally, specific initial I-765 demands get sent with the primary application.

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

Applicants that prepare Form I-765 through CitizenPath’s service also get customized filing instructions. The filing directions will be based on your specific scenario and will describe precisely what documents to send out with Form I-765.

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

Renewal

You may renew your Employment Authorization Document if you are still qualified for work authorization. File a new Form I-765 and select the “renewal” option. Generally, you should not submit for a renewal EAD more than 180 days before your most current EAD ends.

Replacement

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

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