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 an identification card that U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) concerns to particular qualifying foreign nationals to operate in the United States. Lots of people refer to the card as a work license. At USCIS, the Employment Authorization Document is known as Form I-766.

The EAD card includes a photograph of the specific authorized to work and may consist of the individual’s fingerprint. A foreign nationwide who has an EAD typically has open-market employment permission, 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 legitimate till it’s expiration date. Depending upon the individual’s migration status, USCIS usually concerns cards for a two-year duration or less. However, particular EADs held by individuals with Temporary Protected Status (TPS) and other designated categories might be automatically extended beyond the credibility date on the card.

Eligibility for an Employment Authorization Document

There are basically 2 various kinds of nonimmigrants who may be eligible to ask for an EAD. Certain foreign nationals are authorized to work in the United States based on their immigration status. Although they are already licensed to work, they may require evidence of that advantage. Examples include asylees and refugees. Other foreign nationals are inside the U.S. but need to request unique approval to accept work. Examples include change of status applicants, DACA, asylum hunters, and certain students.

RECOMMENDED: List of Eligibility Categories for EAD

Permanent locals (green card holders) do not require an Employment Authorization Document. The permit is evidence of the cardholder’s status and work authorization. Likewise, nonimmigrants licensed to be employed with a specific employer do not require 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 qualified for a Work Authorization Document may request one with Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization. In many cases, the initial ask for work authorization need to be sent with the application for the underlying status.

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

- 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. To put it simply, candidates need to send other specific supporting documents depending upon the certifying basis of eligibility. Additionally, specific initial I-765 requests get submitted with the primary application.

Mistakes on your Form I-765 can cause expensive hold-ups 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 particular situation and will explain exactly what files to send out with Form I-765.

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

Renewal

You may restore your Employment Authorization Document if you are still qualified for work authorization. File a new Form I-765 and pick the “renewal” choice. Generally, you must not submit for 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 ruined. File a new Form I-765 and choose the “replacement” choice. If you did not get an EAD that USCIS sent by mail, you can send a questions on non-delivery of a card.

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