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
An Employment Authorization Document (EAD) is a recognition card that U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) problems to certain qualifying foreign nationals to work in the United States. Many individuals refer to the card as a work authorization. At USCIS, the Employment Authorization Document is referred to as Form I-766.
The EAD card contains a picture of the private authorized to work and may consist of the person's fingerprint. A foreign national who has an EAD usually 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, a Work Authorization Card is only legitimate up until it's expiration date. Depending on the individual's migration status, USCIS usually issues cards for a two-year duration or less. However, specific EADs held by people with Temporary Protected Status (TPS) and other designated classifications might be instantly extended beyond the credibility date on the card.
Eligibility for a Work Authorization Document
There are essentially 2 various kinds of nonimmigrants who might be eligible to request an EAD. Certain foreign nationals are authorized to work in the United States based upon their migration status. Although they are already authorized to work, they might require proof of that privilege. Examples include asylees and refugees. Other foreign nationals are inside the U.S. however require to ask for special authorization to accept employment. Examples include adjustment of status candidates, DACA, asylum hunters, and specific students.
RECOMMENDED: List of Eligibility Categories for EAD
Permanent residents (permit holders) do not need a Work Authorization Document. The green card is evidence of the cardholder's status and work permission. Likewise, nonimmigrants licensed to be utilized 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 qualified for a Work Authorization Document might ask for one with Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization. In some cases, the preliminary request for work permission should be sent with the application for the underlying status.
Typically, an applicant ought to consist of the following items for a preliminary demand:
- Form I-765
USCIS charges
- Copy of Form I-94 Arrival/Departure Record
- Two passport-style photos
- Proof of eligibility
The list above is a generalization. In other words, candidates should submit other particular supporting documents depending on the qualifying basis of eligibility. Additionally, specific preliminary I-765 requests get submitted with the primary application.
Mistakes on your Form I-765 can trigger expensive hold-ups or a rejection.
Applicants that prepare Form I-765 through CitizenPath's service likewise get personalized filing directions. The filing instructions will be based on your particular scenario and will explain precisely what documents to send 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 new Form I-765 and select the "renewal" alternative. Generally, you need to not apply for a renewal EAD more than 180 days before your most recent EAD expires.
Replacement
You might change your Employment Authorization Document if your newest EAD is lost, taken or damaged. File a brand-new Form I-765 and choose 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.