What is an Employment Authorization Document (Form I-766)?
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What is a Work 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) issues to certain certifying foreign nationals to operate in the United States. Many people describe the card as a work authorization. At USCIS, the Employment Authorization Document is referred to as Form I-766.
The EAD card includes a picture of the private licensed to work and may include the individual's fingerprint. A foreign national 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 companies.
EAD Validity Period
Generally, a Work Authorization Card is only legitimate until it's expiration date. Depending on the person's migration status, USCIS generally issues cards for a two-year period or less. However, specific EADs held by people with Temporary Protected Status (TPS) and other designated classifications may be instantly extended beyond the validity date on the card.
Eligibility for a Work Authorization Document
There are essentially two different kinds of nonimmigrants who might be qualified to ask for an EAD. Certain foreign nationals are licensed to operate in the United States based on their immigration status. Although they are already authorized to work, they may need evidence of that benefit. Examples include asylees and refugees. Other foreign nationals are inside the U.S. however need to request unique consent to accept employment. Examples consist of modification of status applicants, DACA, asylum hunters, and specific students.
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Permanent residents (green card holders) do not need a Work Authorization Document. The permit is proof of the cardholder's status and work authorization. Likewise, nonimmigrants authorized to be used with a specific employer do not need 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 ask for one with Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization. In some cases, the preliminary demand for work permission need to be submitted with the application for the underlying status.
Typically, a candidate should include the following products for a preliminary request:
- Form I-765
USCIS fees
- Copy of Form I-94 Arrival/Departure Record
- Two passport-style photos
- Proof of eligibility
The list above is a generalization. In other words, candidates need to send other specific supporting files depending on the certifying basis of eligibility. Additionally, certain preliminary I-765 requests get sent with the primary application.
Mistakes on your Form I-765 can trigger expensive hold-ups or a rejection.
Applicants that prepare Form I-765 through CitizenPath's service also get customized filing guidelines. The filing guidelines will be based on your particular situation and will discuss precisely 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 qualified for work permission. File a new Form I-765 and choose the "renewal" alternative. Generally, you ought to not submit for a renewal EAD more than 180 days before your latest EAD expires.
Replacement
You may change your Employment Authorization Document if your most recent EAD is lost, taken or ruined. File a brand-new Form I-765 and select the "replacement" option. If you did not receive an EAD that USCIS mailed, you can send a query on non-delivery of a card.