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

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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) issues to certain qualifying foreign nationals to operate in the United States. Lots of people refer to the card as a work permit. At USCIS, the Employment Authorization Document is referred to as Form I-766.

The EAD card includes a picture of the private licensed to work and might include the person's finger print. A foreign national who has an EAD usually has open-market employment authorization, but there are exceptions. The card (Form I-766) is a legitimate I-9 document for employers.

EAD Validity Period

Generally, a Work Authorization Card is just valid till it's expiration date. Depending upon the person's migration status, USCIS normally concerns cards for a two-year period or less. However, particular EADs held by individuals with Temporary Protected Status (TPS) and other designated classifications may be automatically extended beyond the credibility date on the card.

Eligibility for an Employment Authorization Document

There are essentially two different types of nonimmigrants who may be eligible to request an EAD. Certain foreign nationals are licensed to operate in the United States based upon their immigration status. Although they are currently licensed to work, they may need proof of that opportunity. Examples include asylees and refugees. Other foreign nationals are inside the U.S. however require to ask for unique permission to accept work. Examples include change of status applicants, DACA, asylum seekers, and specific trainees.

RECOMMENDED: List of Eligibility Categories for EAD

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

Typically, a candidate ought to include the following products for an initial request:

- Form I-765

USCIS costs

- Copy of Form I-94 Arrival/Departure Record

- Two passport-style images

- Proof of eligibility


The list above is a generalization. In other words, applicants should submit other specific 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 cause pricey hold-ups or a rejection.

Applicants that prepare Form I-765 through CitizenPath's service likewise get tailored filing directions. The filing directions will be based on your specific scenario and will explain precisely what files to send out with Form I-765.

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

Renewal

You may restore your Employment Authorization Document if you are still qualified for work authorization. File a brand-new Form I-765 and choose the "renewal" alternative. Generally, you must not declare a renewal EAD more than 180 days before your newest EAD ends.

Replacement

You might replace your Employment Authorization Document if your most recent EAD is lost, stolen or damaged. File a brand-new Form I-765 and choose the "replacement" option. If you did not get an EAD that USCIS mailed, you can submit a query on non-delivery of a card.