Form I-766, Explained: your Employment Authorization Document (EAD) for Operating In The U.S.

Form I-766, Explained: Your Employment Authorization Document (EAD) for Operating In the U.S.

Form I-766 is more frequently called the Employment Authorization Document (EAD) or work permit. It’s a physical card issued by U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) that grants certain nonimmigrant visa holders the legal right to work in the United States. It acts as concrete proof to possible companies that you have the essential authorization to contribute your skills and proficiency to the American workforce.

Navigating the intricate landscape of U.S. immigration law can be challenging, particularly when it pertains to securing work permission. Form I-766 plays a critical role in this process, making it possible for qualified individuals to pursue their profession aspirations while their immigration status is pending or under specific visa classifications. In this extensive guide, we will dig into the information of Form I-766, employment exploring its function, eligibility requirements, application procedure, and numerous circumstances where it ends up being indispensable.

Tabulation

Who Needs Form I-766?

Form I-765 vs. Form I-766: What’s the Difference?

How to Request Form I-766?

Where to Submit Your Form I-765?

Cost of Form I-766

After You Receive Your Form I-766

Renewing or employment Replacing Your Form I-766

Frequently Asked Questions

Final Words

Who Needs Form I-766?

Not all nonimmigrant visa holders need a Work Authorization Document (EAD). U.S. people and legal irreversible residents (green card holders) are immediately licensed to work and do not need to use for an EAD. Similarly, some nonimmigrant visas naturally grant work permission, such as H-1B visas for specialized occupations.

However, if you fall under specific nonimmigrant classifications or require special approval to work, you needForm I-766 becomes your essential tool. This consists of:

– Individuals qualified for Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA).
– Refugees and Asylees.
– Individuals with U nonimmigrant status.
– Applicants with pending Form I-485 (Adjustment of Status) applications.
– F-1 or M-1 students whose visas do not instantly permit work.
– Dependents or partners of certain employment-based nonimmigrant visa holders

Form I-765 vs. Form I-766: What’s the Difference?

You might be questioning about the difference between Form I-765 and Form I-766. In essence, they represent 2 sides of the same coin. Form I-765 is the actual application you send to request work authorization, while Form I-766 is the physical EAD card you receive upon approval. Consider Form I-765 as the request, and Form I-766 as the granted approval.

How to Look For employment Form I-766?

The application procedure for Form I-766 involves completing Form I-765 and providing supporting paperwork to show your eligibility. It’s like putting together the pieces of a puzzle, ensuring you have all the needed to present a complete and convincing case.

The basic requirements for using for an EAD include:

– Two similar passport-style pictures.
– A copy of your U.S. visa.
– A copy of your existing EAD (if applicable)

In addition to these general requirements, you’ll need to send specific proof based upon your visa category. For instance, if you’re applying as a refugee, you’ll require to provide your last notice of eligibility for resettlement and your Form I-797. If you’re using under Temporary Protected Status (TPS), you’ll require to send evidence of your TPS approval.

Where to Submit Your Form I-765?

The filing address for employment Form I-765 depends on your eligibility classification and your present area. USCIS offers an in-depth list of direct filing addresses on its website. It’s important to send your application to the correct address to avoid delays or possible rejection.

Cost of Form I-766

The filing fee for Form I-765, which causes the issuance of Form I-766 (EAD), is $410. Additionally, you might require to pay an $85 biometrics cost, depending on your eligibility classification. It’s vital to check the USCIS site for the most current charge info.

After You Receive Your Form I-766

Congratulations! Once you receive your Form I-766, you’re officially licensed to operate in the U.S. You can present this card to possible employers as evidence of your work eligibility. Remember, it’s important to renew your EAD before it expires to preserve your work authorization.

Renewing or Replacing Your Form I-766

If your EAD is lost, taken, harmed, or contains inaccurate details, you’ll require to obtain a replacement. Similarly, if your EAD is ending, you’ll need to restore it to continue working lawfully. In both cases, you’ll need to submit a new Form I-765 and employment pay the required charges.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need an EAD if I’m adjusting my status to a green card? Yes, if you have a pending Form I-485 (Adjustment of Status), you’ll require to request an EAD to work while your application is being processed.
Can I get Form I-766 with a K-1 visa? Technically, you can deal with a K-1 visa, but it’s a good idea to wait till after you’re married and request an EAD, as K-1 visas generally end within 90 days.
The length of time is the processing time for Form I-765? Processing times can differ, however USCIS typically aims to process applications within a couple of months.
Can I travel outside the U.S. while my EAD is pending? It’s not advised to take a trip while your EAD application is pending, as it could complicate your immigration process.

Final Words

Form I-766, the Employment Authorization Document, is an essential tool for many nonimmigrants seeking to work lawfully in the United States. It’s a testament to the U.S.’s dedication to welcoming competent individuals from around the globe and permitting them to contribute their talents to the American labor force. By comprehending the eligibility requirements, application procedure, and prospective difficulties related to Form I-766, you can navigate this important action in your immigration journey with self-confidence and clarity. Please speak with a migration attorney for additional information.