Home" What is a Work 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 operate in the United States. Lots of people refer to the card as a work authorization. At USCIS, the Employment Authorization Document is referred to as Form I-766.
The EAD card includes a picture of the individual licensed to work and may consist of the person's fingerprint. A foreign national who has an EAD generally has open-market work 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 valid till it's expiration date. Depending on the individual's immigration 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 may be automatically extended beyond the credibility date on the card.
Eligibility for a Work Authorization Document
There are fundamentally two various types of nonimmigrants who may be qualified to request an EAD. Certain foreign nationals are authorized to operate in the United States based upon their migration status. Although they are already licensed to work, they may need proof of that opportunity. Examples consist of asylees and refugees. Other foreign nationals are inside the U.S. but need to request unique approval to accept employment. Examples include modification of status candidates, DACA, asylum seekers, and certain students.
RECOMMENDED: List of Eligibility Categories for EAD
Permanent citizens (green card holders) do not need an Employment Authorization Document. The green card is evidence of the cardholder's status and work permission. Likewise, nonimmigrants licensed to be utilized with a particular employer do not need an EAD. Examples of nonimmigrants with this status include H-1B and TN visa.
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How to Request an EAD
Foreign nationals who are qualified for a Work Authorization Document might ask for one with Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization. In many cases, the initial request for work permission need to be sent with the application for the underlying status.
Typically, a candidate must include the following products for an initial request:
- Form I-765
USCIS fees
- Copy of Form I-94 Arrival/Departure Record
- Two passport-style pictures
- Proof of eligibility
The list above is a generalization. Simply put, candidates need to send other particular supporting files depending on the qualifying basis of eligibility. Additionally, particular preliminary I-765 requests get sent with the main application.
Mistakes on your Form I-765 can trigger pricey hold-ups or a denial.
Applicants that prepare Form I-765 through CitizenPath's service also receive customized filing directions. The filing guidelines will be based on your particular situation and will discuss exactly what files to send 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 brand-new Form I-765 and select the "renewal" choice. Generally, you need to not apply for a renewal EAD more than 180 days before your most recent EAD expires.
Replacement
You might change your Employment Authorization Document if your latest EAD is lost, taken or destroyed. File a brand-new Form I-765 and pick the "replacement" alternative. If you did not receive an EAD that USCIS sent by mail, you can submit an inquiry on non-delivery of a card.
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What is A Work Authorization Document (Form I-766)?
Abbie Bryant edited this page 2025-02-11 17:04:32 +08:00