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

What is a Work 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 certain qualifying foreign nationals to work in the United States. Lots of people describe the card as a work license. At USCIS, the Employment Authorization Document is understood as Form I-766.

The EAD card consists of a picture of the individual licensed to work and might consist of the person's finger print. A foreign national who has an EAD normally has open-market employment authorization, however there are exceptions. The card (Form I-766) is a legitimate I-9 file for companies.

EAD Validity Period

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

Eligibility for a Work Authorization Document

There are basically 2 different types of nonimmigrants who might be eligible to request an EAD. Certain foreign nationals are licensed to work in the United States based on their immigration status. Although they are currently authorized to work, they might require proof of that opportunity. Examples consist of asylees and refugees. Other foreign nationals are inside the U.S. but need to request special consent to accept employment. Examples consist of adjustment of status candidates, DACA, asylum applicants, and particular trainees.

RECOMMENDED: List of Eligibility Categories for EAD

Permanent citizens (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 employed with a specific company do not need an EAD. Examples of nonimmigrants with this status include H-1B and TN visa.

RECOMMENDED: U.S. Work Visa Types for Foreign Nationals

How to Request an EAD

Foreign nationals who are eligible for an Employment Authorization Document might ask for one with Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization. Sometimes, the initial ask for work authorization need to be sent with the application for the underlying status.

Typically, an applicant needs to include the following items for an initial request:

- Form I-765

USCIS fees

- Copy of Form I-94 Arrival/Departure Record

- Two passport-style images

- Proof of eligibility


The list above is a generalization. Simply put, applicants need to send other particular supporting documents depending upon the qualifying basis of eligibility. Additionally, certain initial I-765 demands get submitted with the main application.

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

Applicants that prepare Form I-765 through CitizenPath's service likewise receive individualized filing guidelines. The filing guidelines will be based on your specific circumstance and will describe exactly 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 eligible for work permission. File a new Form I-765 and select the "renewal" option. Generally, you must 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, stolen or damaged. File a brand-new Form I-765 and pick the "replacement" alternative. If you did not get an EAD that USCIS mailed, you can submit a questions on non-delivery of a card.