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

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

May 9, 2021

An Employment Authorization Document (EAD) is a recognition card that U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) problems to specific qualifying foreign nationals to work in the United States. Many people refer to the card as a work license. At USCIS, the Employment Authorization Document is known as Form I-766.

The EAD card consists of a picture of the specific authorized to work and may include the individual's finger print. A foreign nationwide who has an EAD usually has open-market work authorization, however there are exceptions. The card (Form I-766) is a legitimate I-9 document for companies.

EAD Validity Period

Generally, a Work Authorization Card is only valid until it's expiration date. Depending on the individual's migration status, USCIS usually issues 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 validity date on the card.

Eligibility for an Employment Authorization Document

There are basically 2 various kinds of nonimmigrants who might 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 licensed to work, they might require proof of that opportunity. Examples consist of asylees and refugees. Other foreign nationals are inside the U.S. however need to ask for special approval to accept work. Examples include adjustment of status candidates, DACA, asylum hunters, and particular students.

RECOMMENDED: List of Eligibility Categories for EAD

Permanent locals (permit holders) do not require an Employment Authorization Document. The green card is proof of the cardholder's status and work authorization. Likewise, nonimmigrants licensed to be utilized with a specific company do not need 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 eligible for an Employment Authorization Document may request one with Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization. In some cases, the preliminary demand for work authorization should be sent with the application for the underlying status.

Typically, an applicant should include the following products for an initial demand:

- Form I-765

USCIS charges

- Copy of Form I-94 Arrival/Departure Record

- Two passport-style photos

- Proof of eligibility


The list above is a generalization. In other words, candidates need to submit other particular supporting files depending on the qualifying basis of eligibility. Additionally, specific initial I-765 demands get sent with the main application.

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

Applicants that prepare Form I-765 through CitizenPath's service also receive personalized filing guidelines. The filing guidelines will be based upon your specific scenario and will discuss precisely what files to send 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 permission. File a brand-new Form I-765 and pick the "renewal" option. Generally, you ought to not apply for a renewal EAD more than 180 days before your latest EAD ends.

Replacement

You might replace your Employment Authorization Document if your latest EAD is lost, taken or ruined. File a new Form I-765 and select the "replacement" choice. If you did not receive an EAD that USCIS sent by mail, you can send a query on non-delivery of a card.