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 an identification card that U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) problems to certain certifying foreign nationals to work in the United States. Many individuals refer to the card as a work permit. At USCIS, the Employment Authorization Document is known as Form I-766.
The EAD card consists of a photo of the private authorized to work and may consist of the individual's fingerprint. A foreign national who has an EAD generally has open-market employment authorization, 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 only valid up until it's expiration date. Depending on the individual's migration status, USCIS typically issues cards for a two-year period or less. However, certain EADs held by people with Temporary Protected Status (TPS) and other designated classifications might be immediately extended beyond the validity date on the card.
Eligibility for an Employment Authorization Document
There are basically 2 various kinds of nonimmigrants who may be qualified to ask for an EAD. Certain foreign nationals are authorized to work in the United States based on their immigration status. Although they are currently authorized to work, they may need proof of that advantage. Examples include asylees and refugees. Other foreign nationals are inside the U.S. however require to ask for special permission to accept work. Examples consist of adjustment of status candidates, DACA, asylum seekers, and particular students.
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Permanent homeowners (green card holders) do not need a Work Authorization Document. The green card is evidence of the cardholder's status and work permission. 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 might request one with Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization. Sometimes, the preliminary ask for work authorization should be submitted with the application for the underlying status.
Typically, an applicant ought to include the following products for an initial demand:
- Form I-765
USCIS charges
- Copy of Form I-94 Arrival/Departure Record
- Two passport-style photos
- Proof of eligibility
The list above is a generalization. Simply put, candidates should send other specific supporting documents depending on the certifying basis of eligibility. Additionally, particular initial I-765 requests get submitted with the main 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 also receive customized filing instructions. The filing directions will be based on your specific scenario and will describe precisely what files to send out with Form I-765.
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Renewal
You might renew your Employment Authorization Document if you are still qualified for work authorization. File a new Form I-765 and select the "renewal" choice. Generally, you ought to not declare 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, taken or ruined. File a brand-new Form I-765 and pick the "replacement" alternative. If you did not receive an EAD that USCIS sent by mail, you can send an inquiry on non-delivery of a card.