What is A Work Authorization Document (Form I-766)?
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What is a Work 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) concerns to specific 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 called Form I-766.
The EAD card includes a picture of the specific licensed to work and might include the individual's finger print. A foreign nationwide who has an EAD normally has open-market employment permission, however there are exceptions. The card (Form I-766) is a legitimate I-9 document for employers.
EAD Validity Period
Generally, an Employment Authorization Card is just legitimate till it's expiration date. Depending upon the person's immigration status, USCIS usually problems cards for a two-year period or less. However, particular EADs held by people with Temporary Protected Status (TPS) and other designated classifications may be instantly extended beyond the credibility date on the card.
Eligibility for an Employment Authorization Document
There are fundamentally 2 different kinds of nonimmigrants who might be qualified to request an EAD. Certain foreign nationals are authorized to operate in the United States based on their migration status. Although they are currently licensed to work, they may require proof of that privilege. Examples include asylees and refugees. Other foreign nationals are inside the U.S. however need to ask for special authorization to accept work. Examples include adjustment of status candidates, DACA, asylum hunters, and certain trainees.
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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 specific company do not need 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 qualified for an Employment Authorization Document may ask for one with Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization. Sometimes, the initial demand for work permission need to be submitted with the application for the underlying status.
Typically, an applicant needs to include the following products for a preliminary demand:
- Form I-765
USCIS charges
- 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 must send other particular supporting documents depending upon the certifying basis of eligibility. Additionally, certain initial I-765 requests get sent with the primary application.
Mistakes on your Form I-765 can trigger costly hold-ups or a denial.
Applicants that prepare Form I-765 through CitizenPath's service also receive tailored filing directions. The filing instructions will be based upon your specific circumstance and will discuss precisely what files to send out with Form I-765.
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Renewal
You may restore your Employment Authorization Document if you are still eligible for work authorization. File a brand-new Form I-765 and choose the "renewal" option. Generally, you must not declare a renewal EAD more than 180 days before your latest EAD ends.
Replacement
You might change your Employment Authorization Document if your latest EAD is lost, taken or destroyed. File a brand-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.