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
An Employment 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 individuals refer to the card as a work authorization. At USCIS, the Employment Authorization Document is called Form I-766.
The EAD card consists of a photograph of the individual licensed to work and might include the individual'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 legitimate I-9 document for employers.
EAD Validity Period
Generally, an Employment Authorization Card is only valid until it's expiration date. Depending on the individual's migration status, USCIS typically issues cards for a two-year duration or less. However, specific EADs held by people with Temporary Protected Status (TPS) and other designated categories might be automatically extended beyond the credibility date on the card.
Eligibility for a Work Authorization Document
There are basically 2 different types of nonimmigrants who may be qualified to request an EAD. Certain foreign nationals are authorized to work in the United States based on their migration status. Although they are already authorized to work, they might need proof of that privilege. Examples consist of asylees and refugees. Other foreign nationals are inside the U.S. however require to ask for unique authorization to accept employment. Examples consist of modification of status candidates, DACA, asylum hunters, and specific trainees.
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Permanent residents (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 used with a particular company 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 eligible for a Work Authorization Document might ask for one with Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization. In many cases, the preliminary demand for work authorization should be sent with the application for the underlying status.
Typically, an applicant needs to consist of the following products for a preliminary request:
- Form I-765
USCIS costs
- 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 files depending on the certifying basis of eligibility. Additionally, particular preliminary I-765 requests get sent with the main application.
Mistakes on your Form I-765 can cause costly hold-ups or a denial.
Applicants that prepare Form I-765 through CitizenPath's service also get personalized filing instructions. The filing guidelines will be based upon your specific circumstance and will describe 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 eligible for work authorization. File a brand-new Form I-765 and choose the "renewal" option. Generally, you should not submit for a renewal EAD more than 180 days before your latest EAD expires.
Replacement
You may replace your Employment Authorization Document if your most current EAD is lost, stolen or damaged. File a new Form I-765 and choose the "replacement" alternative. If you did not get an EAD that USCIS mailed, you can submit a query on non-delivery of a card.