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 a recognition card that U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) problems to particular qualifying foreign nationals to work in the United States. Many individuals describe the card as a work authorization. At USCIS, the Employment Authorization Document is referred to as Form I-766.
The EAD card consists of a photograph of the individual authorized to work and might consist of the individual's fingerprint. A foreign national who has an EAD normally has open-market work authorization, however there are exceptions. The card (Form I-766) is a legitimate I-9 file for companies.
EAD Validity Period
Generally, a Work Authorization Card is only valid till it's expiration date. Depending upon the individual's migration status, USCIS normally issues cards for a two-year period or less. However, particular EADs held by individuals with Temporary Protected Status (TPS) and other designated classifications may be immediately extended beyond the validity date on the card.
Eligibility for an Employment Authorization Document
There are fundamentally 2 different types of nonimmigrants who may be qualified to request an EAD. Certain foreign nationals are licensed to operate in the United States based upon their migration status. Although they are already authorized to work, they may need proof of that advantage. Examples include asylees and refugees. Other foreign nationals are inside the U.S. but require to request unique consent to accept work. Examples include change of status applicants, DACA, asylum seekers, and certain trainees.
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Permanent residents (permit holders) do not require an Employment Authorization Document. The green card 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 might request one with Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization. Sometimes, the initial ask for work permission must be submitted with the application for the underlying status.
Typically, a candidate should consist of the following items for an initial request:
- Form I-765
USCIS fees
- Copy of Form I-94 Arrival/Departure Record
- Two passport-style pictures
- Proof of eligibility
The list above is a generalization. In other words, applicants should send other particular supporting documents depending upon the qualifying basis of eligibility. Additionally, certain preliminary I-765 requests get submitted with the primary application.
Mistakes on your Form I-765 can trigger costly delays or a rejection.
Applicants that prepare Form I-765 through CitizenPath's service also receive customized filing directions. The filing instructions will be based upon your specific situation and will describe exactly what documents 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 must not apply for a renewal EAD more than 180 days before your newest EAD expires.
Replacement
You may replace your Employment Authorization Document if your newest EAD is lost, stolen or destroyed. File a brand-new Form I-765 and pick the "replacement" choice. If you did not receive an EAD that USCIS mailed, you can submit a questions on non-delivery of a card.