What is A Work Authorization Document (Form I-766)?
Home" What is an Employment Authorization Document (Form I-766)?
What is a Work Authorization Document (Form I-766)?
May 9, 2021
An Employment 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 refer to the card as a work authorization. At USCIS, the Employment Authorization Document is referred to as Form I-766.
The EAD card contains a photo of the individual licensed to work and may consist of the person's fingerprint. A foreign nationwide who has an EAD generally has open-market employment authorization, however there are exceptions. The card (Form I-766) is a valid I-9 file for employers.
EAD Validity Period
Generally, a Work Authorization Card is just valid until it's expiration date. Depending upon the individual's immigration status, USCIS generally problems cards for a two-year period or less. However, particular EADs held by individuals with Temporary Protected Status (TPS) and other designated classifications might be instantly extended beyond the validity date on the card.
Eligibility for a Work Authorization Document
There are fundamentally two various kinds of nonimmigrants who may be eligible to ask for an EAD. Certain foreign nationals are authorized to operate in the United States based on their immigration status. Although they are already authorized to work, they may require evidence of that opportunity. Examples consist of asylees and refugees. Other foreign nationals are inside the U.S. however need to request special permission to accept work. Examples consist of adjustment of status applicants, DACA, asylum candidates, and particular trainees.
RECOMMENDED: List of Eligibility Categories for EAD
Permanent residents (permit holders) do not require a Work Authorization Document. The permit is proof of the cardholder's status and work permission. Likewise, nonimmigrants authorized to be used with a specific company do not need an EAD. Examples of nonimmigrants with this status include H-1B and TN visa.
RECOMMENDED: U.S. Work Visa Types for Foreign Nationals
How to Request an EAD
Foreign nationals who are qualified for a Work Authorization Document may ask for one with Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization. In many cases, the preliminary ask for work authorization must be submitted with the application for the underlying status.
Typically, an applicant 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 images
- Proof of eligibility
The list above is a generalization. To put it simply, applicants must submit other specific supporting files depending on the qualifying basis of eligibility. Additionally, certain initial I-765 requests get submitted with the primary 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 likewise get customized filing directions. The filing instructions will be based on your particular circumstance and will discuss exactly what files to send out with Form I-765.
RECOMMENDED: How to Look for a U.S. Work Permit
Renewal
You may restore your Employment Authorization Document if you are still eligible for work permission. File a new Form I-765 and choose the "renewal" choice. Generally, you should not apply for a renewal EAD more than 180 days before your newest EAD ends.
Replacement
You might change your Employment Authorization Document if your newest EAD is lost, stolen or damaged. File a new Form I-765 and pick the "replacement" choice. If you did not receive an EAD that USCIS mailed, you can send an inquiry on non-delivery of a card.