What is A Work 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) problems to certain certifying foreign nationals to work in the United States. Many individuals describe the card as a work permit. At USCIS, the Employment Authorization Document is called Form I-766.
The EAD card includes a picture of the specific licensed to work and may include the person's fingerprint. A foreign national who has an EAD typically has open-market work 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 just legitimate till it's expiration date. Depending on the person's immigration status, USCIS generally concerns cards for a two-year duration or less. However, specific EADs held by individuals with Temporary Protected Status (TPS) and other designated categories 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 might be eligible to request an EAD. Certain foreign nationals are authorized to work in the United States based on their migration status. Although they are currently authorized to work, they may need evidence of that advantage. Examples consist of asylees and refugees. Other foreign nationals are inside the U.S. but require to ask for unique consent to accept work. Examples include change of status applicants, DACA, asylum applicants, and certain trainees.
RECOMMENDED: List of Eligibility Categories for EAD
Permanent residents (green card holders) do not require an Employment Authorization Document. The permit is evidence of the cardholder's status and work permission. Likewise, nonimmigrants authorized to be employed with a specific company 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 eligible for a Work Authorization Document may request one with Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization. In many cases, the preliminary ask for work permission need to be submitted with the application for the underlying status.
Typically, a candidate needs to include the following products for a preliminary request:
- Form I-765
USCIS charges
- 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 should send other particular supporting files depending on the qualifying basis of eligibility. Additionally, particular preliminary I-765 demands get submitted with the main application.
Mistakes on your Form I-765 can trigger pricey hold-ups or a denial.
Applicants that prepare Form I-765 through CitizenPath's service likewise receive individualized filing instructions. The filing guidelines will be based on your specific situation and will explain exactly what files to send out with Form I-765.
RECOMMENDED: How to Look for a U.S. Work Permit
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" choice. Generally, you ought to not declare a renewal EAD more than 180 days before your latest EAD expires.
Replacement
You may change your Employment Authorization Document if your newest EAD is lost, taken or damaged. 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 send a query on non-delivery of a card.