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
An Employment Authorization Document (EAD) is an identification card that U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) problems to particular qualifying foreign nationals to work in the United States. Lots of people refer to the card as a work license. At USCIS, the Employment Authorization Document is called Form I-766.
The EAD card includes a picture of the private licensed to work and might consist of the individual's finger print. A foreign nationwide who has an EAD normally has open-market employment authorization, but there are exceptions. The card (Form I-766) is a legitimate I-9 file for employers.
EAD Validity Period
Generally, a Work Authorization Card is just valid up until it's expiration date. Depending on the person's migration status, USCIS normally concerns cards for a two-year period or less. However, certain EADs held by people with Temporary Protected Status (TPS) and other designated categories may be immediately extended beyond the credibility date on the card.
Eligibility for a Work Authorization Document
There are fundamentally two various types of nonimmigrants who might be qualified to request an EAD. Certain foreign nationals are licensed to work in the United States based on their immigration status. Although they are already authorized to work, they may require proof of that opportunity. Examples include asylees and refugees. Other foreign nationals are inside the U.S. but require to request unique consent to accept employment. Examples consist of adjustment of status applicants, DACA, asylum seekers, and specific students.
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Permanent residents (green card holders) do not require an Employment Authorization Document. The green card is evidence of the cardholder's status and work permission. Likewise, nonimmigrants licensed to be employed 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 must be submitted with the application for the underlying status.
Typically, an applicant should consist of the following products for a preliminary demand:
- 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 must send other specific supporting files depending on the qualifying basis of eligibility. Additionally, particular initial I-765 demands get submitted with the primary application.
Mistakes on your Form I-765 can trigger expensive hold-ups or a denial.
Applicants that prepare Form I-765 through CitizenPath's service also get customized filing guidelines. The filing guidelines will be based upon your particular circumstance and will explain precisely what files to send 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 brand-new Form I-765 and choose the "renewal" alternative. Generally, you should not submit for a renewal EAD more than 180 days before your latest EAD ends.
Replacement
You might change your Employment Authorization Document if your most current EAD is lost, stolen or ruined. File a new Form I-765 and pick the "replacement" alternative. If you did not receive an EAD that USCIS sent by mail, you can submit an inquiry on non-delivery of a card.