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) problems to particular qualifying 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 contains a photograph of the private authorized to work and might consist of the person's finger print. A foreign national who has an EAD typically has open-market work authorization, 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 until it's expiration date. Depending on the person's migration status, USCIS normally issues cards for a two-year period or less. However, specific EADs held by people with Temporary Protected Status (TPS) and other designated classifications may be instantly extended beyond the validity date on the card.
Eligibility for a Work Authorization Document
There are essentially two various kinds of nonimmigrants who might be eligible to request an EAD. Certain foreign nationals are licensed to operate in the United States based on their immigration status. Although they are currently licensed to work, they may need evidence of that advantage. Examples consist of asylees and refugees. Other foreign nationals are inside the U.S. but need to ask for special authorization to accept employment. Examples include change of status candidates, DACA, asylum applicants, and certain trainees.
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Permanent homeowners (green card holders) do not need an Employment Authorization Document. The green card is evidence of the cardholder's status and work authorization. Likewise, nonimmigrants licensed to be utilized with a particular company 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 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, an applicant ought to include the following items for an initial demand:
- 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. Simply put, candidates should send other particular supporting documents depending upon the qualifying basis of eligibility. Additionally, specific preliminary 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 receive personalized filing guidelines. The filing instructions will be based on your particular scenario and will explain precisely what files to send with Form I-765.
RECOMMENDED: How to Obtain a U.S. Work Permit
Renewal
You might renew your Employment Authorization Document if you are still eligible for work permission. File a new Form I-765 and choose the "renewal" choice. Generally, you should not file for a renewal EAD more than 180 days before your most current EAD expires.
Replacement
You may change your Employment Authorization Document if your most recent EAD is lost, stolen or damaged. File a brand-new Form I-765 and select the "replacement" option. If you did not receive an EAD that USCIS sent by mail, you can submit a questions on non-delivery of a card.
