What is A Work Authorization Document (Form I-766)?

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) issues to particular certifying foreign nationals to work in the United States. Many individuals refer to the card as a work authorization. At USCIS, the Employment Authorization Document is referred to as Form I-766.

The EAD card contains a photograph of the individual licensed to work and may consist of the individual’s finger print. A foreign national who has an EAD typically has open-market employment authorization, however there are exceptions. The card (Form I-766) is a valid I-9 file for employers.

EAD Validity Period

Generally, a Work Authorization Card is just valid up until it’s expiration date. Depending on the individual’s immigration status, USCIS generally problems cards for a two-year duration or less. However, certain EADs held by people with Temporary Protected Status (TPS) and other designated categories may be immediately extended beyond the credibility date on the card.

Eligibility for an Employment Authorization Document

There are fundamentally two various kinds 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 authorized to work, they may need proof of that advantage. Examples consist of asylees and refugees. Other foreign nationals are inside the U.S. but need to ask for unique approval to accept work. Examples include modification of status candidates, DACA, asylum seekers, and particular trainees.

RECOMMENDED: List of Eligibility Categories for EAD

Permanent homeowners (green card holders) do not require a Work Authorization Document. The green card is proof of the cardholder’s status and work permission. Likewise, nonimmigrants authorized to be used with a particular company do not require 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 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, a candidate should consist of the following items for a preliminary request:

– Form I-765

USCIS costs

– Copy of Form I-94 Arrival/Departure Record

– Two passport-style photos

– Proof of eligibility

The list above is a generalization. To put it simply, applicants need to send other particular supporting files depending upon the certifying basis of eligibility. Additionally, particular preliminary I-765 requests get sent with the main application.

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

Applicants that prepare Form I-765 through CitizenPath’s service also get individualized filing instructions. The filing guidelines will be based upon your particular scenario and will describe exactly what documents to send out with Form I-765.

RECOMMENDED: How to Get a U.S. Work Permit

Renewal

You might renew your Employment Authorization Document if you are still qualified for work permission. File a brand-new Form I-765 and select the «renewal» option. Generally, you ought to not declare a renewal EAD more than 180 days before your newest EAD expires.

Replacement

You might change your Employment Authorization Document if your latest EAD is lost, stolen or damaged. File a new Form I-765 and select the «replacement» choice. If you did not receive an EAD that USCIS mailed, you can send an inquiry on non-delivery of a card.

employment

employment

employment

employment

employment