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 an identification card that U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) issues to certain qualifying foreign nationals to work in the United States. Lots of people describe the card as a work license. At USCIS, the Employment Authorization Document is referred to as Form I-766.
The EAD card includes a photo of the specific licensed to work and may include the individual's finger print. A foreign national who has an EAD generally has open-market employment permission, 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 only valid till it's expiration date. Depending on the individual's migration status, USCIS normally problems cards for a two-year duration or less. However, specific EADs held by individuals with Temporary Protected Status (TPS) and other designated classifications might be instantly extended beyond the credibility date on the card.
Eligibility for an Employment Authorization Document
There are fundamentally two different types of nonimmigrants who might be qualified to request an EAD. Certain foreign nationals are authorized to work in the United States based upon their migration status. Although they are currently licensed to work, they may require evidence of that privilege. Examples include asylees and refugees. Other foreign nationals are inside the U.S. but require to ask for special consent to accept work. Examples consist of adjustment of status applicants, DACA, asylum applicants, and particular students.
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Permanent homeowners (green card holders) do not require an Employment Authorization Document. The green card is evidence of the cardholder's status and work authorization. Likewise, nonimmigrants authorized to be used with a particular company do not require an EAD. Examples of nonimmigrants with this status consist of 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. Sometimes, the preliminary ask for work authorization need to be submitted with the application for the underlying status.
Typically, a candidate ought 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 images
- Proof of eligibility
The list above is a generalization. In other words, candidates need to submit other specific supporting files depending upon the certifying basis of eligibility. Additionally, particular preliminary I-765 requests get submitted with the main application.
Mistakes on your Form I-765 can trigger expensive delays or a denial.
Applicants that prepare Form I-765 through CitizenPath's service also receive personalized filing guidelines. The filing guidelines will be based on your specific situation and will describe precisely what files to send with Form I-765.
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Renewal
You may restore your Employment Authorization Document if you are still eligible for work permission. File a brand-new Form I-765 and select the "renewal" choice. Generally, you ought to not apply for a renewal EAD more than 180 days before your latest EAD expires.
Replacement
You might replace your Employment Authorization Document if your latest EAD is lost, stolen or ruined. File a brand-new Form I-765 and pick the "replacement" option. If you did not get an EAD that USCIS mailed, you can send a query on non-delivery of a card.