What is an Employment 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 an identification card that U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) issues to certain qualifying foreign nationals to work in the United States. Many individuals describe the card as a work license. At USCIS, the Employment Authorization Document is referred to as Form I-766.
The EAD card contains a picture of the specific licensed to work and may consist of the person's finger print. A foreign nationwide who has an EAD generally has open-market employment permission, but there are exceptions. The card (Form I-766) is a valid I-9 document for employers.
EAD Validity Period
Generally, an Employment Authorization Card is just valid up until it's expiration date. Depending upon the individual's immigration status, USCIS usually concerns cards for a two-year period or less. However, certain EADs held by people with Temporary Protected Status (TPS) and other designated categories might be immediately extended beyond the credibility date on the card.
Eligibility for a Work Authorization Document
There are essentially 2 various types of nonimmigrants who might be eligible to ask for an EAD. Certain foreign nationals are licensed to work in the United States based upon their immigration status. Although they are currently licensed to work, they may need evidence of that advantage. Examples include asylees and refugees. Other foreign nationals are inside the U.S. but require to ask for special authorization to accept employment. Examples consist of adjustment of status applicants, DACA, asylum hunters, and specific students.
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Permanent citizens (permit holders) do not require a Work Authorization Document. The green card is evidence of the cardholder's status and work authorization. Likewise, nonimmigrants licensed to be employed with a particular company do not require an EAD. Examples of nonimmigrants with this status consist of H-1B and TN visa.
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How to Request an EAD
Foreign nationals who are eligible for a Work Authorization Document may ask for one with Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization. In some cases, the preliminary request for work permission should be sent with the application for the underlying status.
Typically, a candidate should consist of the following items for an initial demand:
- 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. To put it simply, candidates must submit other particular supporting documents depending upon the qualifying basis of eligibility. Additionally, particular initial I-765 demands get sent with the main application.
Mistakes on your Form I-765 can cause expensive hold-ups or a denial.
Applicants that prepare Form I-765 through CitizenPath's service also receive personalized filing guidelines. The filing guidelines will be based on your specific circumstance and will explain exactly what files to send out with Form I-765.
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Renewal
You might restore 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 must not file for a renewal EAD more than 180 days before your latest EAD ends.
Replacement
You may change your Employment Authorization Document if your most recent EAD is lost, stolen or damaged. File a brand-new Form I-765 and choose the "replacement" option. If you did not get an EAD that USCIS mailed, you can submit a questions on non-delivery of a card.