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) concerns 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 called Form I-766.
The EAD card consists of a photo of the specific authorized to work and might consist of the person's fingerprint. A foreign national who has an EAD usually has open-market work authorization, however there are exceptions. The card (Form I-766) is a legitimate I-9 document for employers.
EAD Validity Period
Generally, a Work Authorization Card is only valid until it's expiration date. Depending upon the person's migration status, USCIS usually issues cards for a two-year duration or less. However, certain EADs held by people with Temporary Protected Status (TPS) and other designated categories may 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 might be eligible to request an EAD. Certain foreign nationals are authorized to operate in the United States based on their immigration status. Although they are already licensed to work, they may require proof of that privilege. Examples consist of asylees and refugees. Other foreign nationals are inside the U.S. however need to request unique consent to accept work. Examples include adjustment of status applicants, DACA, asylum hunters, and particular students.
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Permanent residents (green card holders) do not require an Employment Authorization Document. The green card is proof of the cardholder's status and work permission. Likewise, nonimmigrants licensed 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 a Work Authorization Document may ask for one with Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization. In many cases, the initial ask for work authorization need to be sent with the application for the underlying status.
Typically, a candidate needs to consist of the following products for an initial request:
- Form I-765
USCIS costs
- 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 need to send other particular supporting files depending on the qualifying basis of eligibility. Additionally, specific initial I-765 requests get sent 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 directions. The filing guidelines will be based on your particular situation and will explain exactly what files to send with Form I-765.
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Renewal
You may renew your Employment Authorization Document if you are still eligible for work authorization. File a brand-new Form I-765 and select the "renewal" alternative. Generally, you ought to not file for a renewal EAD more than 180 days before your newest EAD expires.
Replacement
You may change your Employment Authorization Document if your latest EAD is lost, stolen or damaged. File a new Form I-765 and choose the "replacement" alternative. If you did not receive an EAD that USCIS mailed, you can submit a questions on non-delivery of a card.