What is an Employment 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 an identification card that U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) concerns to specific certifying foreign nationals to work in the United States. Many individuals describe the card as a work authorization. At USCIS, the Employment Authorization Document is known as Form I-766.
The EAD card consists of a picture of the specific licensed to work and might include the individual's finger print. A foreign national who has an EAD typically has open-market employment authorization, however there are exceptions. The card (Form I-766) is a legitimate I-9 document for employers.
EAD Validity Period
Generally, a Work Authorization Card is just legitimate until it's expiration date. Depending upon the person's migration status, USCIS generally problems 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 immediately extended beyond the credibility date on the card.
Eligibility for an Employment Authorization Document
There are fundamentally two different kinds of nonimmigrants who may be qualified to request an EAD. Certain foreign nationals are licensed to operate in the United States based on their migration status. Although they are currently licensed to work, they may require proof of that advantage. Examples consist of asylees and refugees. Other foreign nationals are inside the U.S. however need to request special authorization to accept employment. Examples consist of change of status applicants, DACA, asylum candidates, and particular trainees.
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Permanent locals (permit holders) do not require an Employment Authorization Document. The green card is proof of the cardholder's status and work authorization. Likewise, nonimmigrants authorized to be used with a specific employer 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 might request one with Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization. Sometimes, the initial demand for work authorization must be submitted with the application for the underlying status.
Typically, a candidate ought to include the following items for a preliminary demand:
- Form I-765
USCIS costs
- 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 particular supporting files depending upon the qualifying basis of eligibility. Additionally, specific preliminary I-765 requests get sent with the primary application.
Mistakes on your Form I-765 can cause costly hold-ups or a denial.
Applicants that prepare Form I-765 through CitizenPath's service likewise get personalized filing instructions. The filing instructions will be based upon your specific circumstance and will describe exactly what documents to send with Form I-765.
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Renewal
You might restore your Employment Authorization Document if you are still qualified for work permission. File a brand-new Form I-765 and select the "renewal" alternative. Generally, you ought to not file for 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, stolen or destroyed. File a brand-new Form I-765 and choose the "replacement" choice. If you did not get an EAD that USCIS sent by mail, you can submit a query on non-delivery of a card.