What is A Work Authorization Document (Form I-766)?
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What is an Employment 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) concerns to specific certifying foreign nationals to operate in the United States. Many individuals refer to the card as a work permit. At USCIS, the Employment Authorization Document is called Form I-766.
The EAD card includes a photograph of the individual licensed to work and might include the person's finger print. A foreign nationwide who has an EAD usually has open-market work permission, however there are exceptions. The card (Form I-766) is a legitimate I-9 file for companies.
EAD Validity Period
Generally, an Employment Authorization Card is just legitimate until it's expiration date. Depending on the individual's immigration status, USCIS usually concerns 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 automatically extended beyond the validity date on the card.
Eligibility for an Employment Authorization Document
There are essentially 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 migration status. Although they are currently licensed to work, they may need evidence of that opportunity. Examples include asylees and refugees. Other foreign nationals are inside the U.S. but require to request unique permission to accept employment. Examples include change of status applicants, DACA, asylum applicants, and specific trainees.
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Permanent residents (green card holders) do not require an Employment Authorization Document. The green card is proof of the cardholder's status and work authorization. Likewise, nonimmigrants authorized to be employed with a specific employer do not require an EAD. Examples of nonimmigrants with this status include H-1B and TN visa.
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How to Request an EAD
Foreign nationals who are qualified for an Employment Authorization Document may request one with Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization. Sometimes, the preliminary ask for work permission must be submitted with the application for the underlying status.
Typically, a candidate must include the following products for an initial request:
- Form I-765
USCIS charges
- Copy of Form I-94 Arrival/Departure Record
- Two passport-style pictures
- Proof of eligibility
The list above is a generalization. In other words, applicants should submit other particular supporting documents depending upon the qualifying basis of eligibility. Additionally, specific initial I-765 demands get sent with the primary application.
Mistakes on your Form I-765 can trigger expensive hold-ups or a denial.
Applicants that prepare Form I-765 through CitizenPath's service also receive personalized filing directions. The filing directions will be based on your specific scenario and will explain exactly what documents to send out with Form I-765.
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Renewal
You may renew your Employment Authorization Document if you are still eligible for work permission. File a brand-new Form I-765 and pick the "renewal" alternative. Generally, you need to not declare a renewal EAD more than 180 days before your newest EAD expires.
Replacement
You may change your Employment Authorization Document if your newest EAD is lost, taken or damaged. File a brand-new Form I-765 and choose the "replacement" alternative. If you did not get an EAD that USCIS sent by mail, you can send a query on non-delivery of a card.