Home" What is a Work Authorization Document (Form I-766)?
What is an Employment 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 specific certifying 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 known as Form I-766.
The EAD card includes a photo of the individual authorized to work and may include the person's finger print. A foreign nationwide who has an EAD typically has open-market employment permission, but there are exceptions. The card (Form I-766) is a valid I-9 file for companies.
EAD Validity Period
Generally, a Work Authorization Card is just valid up until it's expiration date. Depending upon the person's immigration status, USCIS usually concerns cards for a two-year period or less. However, specific EADs held by people with Temporary Protected Status (TPS) and other designated classifications might be automatically extended beyond the validity date on the card.
Eligibility for an Employment Authorization Document
There are essentially 2 different kinds 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 might require evidence of that privilege. Examples consist of asylees and refugees. Other foreign nationals are inside the U.S. but need to request unique consent to accept work. Examples consist of modification of status candidates, DACA, asylum hunters, and certain students.
RECOMMENDED: List of Eligibility Categories for EAD
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 licensed to be employed with a specific company do not need an EAD. Examples of nonimmigrants with this status include H-1B and TN visa.
RECOMMENDED: U.S. Work Visa Types for Foreign Nationals
How to Request an EAD
Foreign nationals who are eligible for an Employment Authorization Document might request one with Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization. In many cases, the preliminary ask for work permission should be submitted with the application for the underlying status.
Typically, a candidate must include the following items for a preliminary demand:
- Form I-765
USCIS fees
- 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 must send other specific supporting documents depending upon the qualifying basis of eligibility. Additionally, specific preliminary I-765 demands get submitted with the main application.
Mistakes on your Form I-765 can cause pricey hold-ups or a denial.
Applicants that prepare Form I-765 through CitizenPath's service also receive tailored filing guidelines. The filing guidelines will be based upon your specific scenario and will explain exactly what files to send with Form I-765.
RECOMMENDED: How to Look for a U.S. Work Permit
Renewal
You might restore your Employment Authorization Document if you are still eligible for work permission. File a brand-new Form I-765 and pick the "renewal" option. Generally, you need to not apply for a renewal EAD more than 180 days before your newest EAD ends.
Replacement
You may replace your Employment Authorization Document if your latest EAD is lost, taken or ruined. File a brand-new Form I-765 and select the "replacement" choice. If you did not get an EAD that USCIS mailed, you can send a questions on non-delivery of a card.
2
What is A Work Authorization Document (Form I 766)?
Abby Bancks edited this page 5 days ago