Form I-766, Explained: your Employment Authorization Document (EAD) for Working in The U.S.

Form I-766, Explained: employment Your Employment Authorization Document (EAD) for Operating In the U.S.

Form I-766 is more commonly referred to as the Employment Authorization Document (EAD) or work permit. It’s a physical card issued by U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) that grants specific nonimmigrant visa holders the legal right to work in the United States. It acts as concrete evidence to possible companies that you have the needed authorization to contribute your abilities and knowledge to the American labor force.

Navigating the complex landscape of U.S. immigration law can be overwhelming, especially when it comes to securing employment authorization. Form I-766 plays a pivotal role in this process, enabling eligible individuals to pursue their profession goals while their immigration status is pending or under specific visa classifications. In this comprehensive guide, we will look into the information of Form I-766, exploring its purpose, eligibility requirements, application process, and different scenarios where it becomes indispensable.

Table of Contents

Who Needs Form I-766?

Form I-765 vs. Form I-766: What’s the Difference?

How to Request Form I-766?

Where to Submit Your Form I-765?

Cost of Form I-766

After You Your Form I-766

Renewing or Replacing Your Form I-766

Frequently Asked Questions

Final Words

Who Needs Form I-766?

Not all nonimmigrant visa holders require a Work Authorization Document (EAD). U.S. residents and lawful long-term residents (permit holders) are automatically licensed to work and do not need to use for an EAD. Similarly, some nonimmigrant visas naturally give work permission, employment such as H-1B visas for specialty occupations.

However, if you fall under specific nonimmigrant classifications or require special permission to work, you needForm I-766 becomes your vital tool. This consists of:

– Individuals qualified for Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA).
– Refugees and Asylees.
– Individuals with U nonimmigrant status.
– Applicants with pending Form I-485 (Adjustment of Status) applications.
– F-1 or M-1 trainees whose visas do not instantly allow work.
– Dependents or partners of particular employment-based nonimmigrant visa holders

Form I-765 vs. Form I-766: What’s the Difference?

You may be questioning the difference between Form I-765 and Form I-766. In essence, they represent 2 sides of the exact same coin. Form I-765 is the actual application you submit to request employment permission, while Form I-766 is the physical EAD card you get upon approval. Think About Form I-765 as the demand, and Form I-766 as the given permission.

How to Look For Form I-766?

The application procedure for employment Form I-766 involves finishing Form I-765 and providing supporting documentation to show your eligibility. It resembles putting together the pieces of a puzzle, guaranteeing you have all the required parts to provide a complete and employment convincing case.

The general requirements for obtaining an EAD consist of:

– Two identical passport-style photographs.
– A copy of your U.S. visa.
– A copy of your current EAD (if suitable)

In addition to these general requirements, you’ll need to send specific proof based on your visa category. For instance, if you’re using as a refugee, you’ll require to supply your final notice of eligibility for resettlement and your Form I-797. If you’re applying under Temporary Protected Status (TPS), you’ll require to submit evidence of your TPS approval.

Where to Submit Your Form I-765?

The filing address for Form I-765 depends upon your eligibility category and your current place. USCIS offers a comprehensive list of direct filing addresses on its site. It’s vital to send your application to the proper address to avoid delays or prospective rejection.

Cost of Form I-766

The filing charge for Form I-765, which leads to the issuance of Form I-766 (EAD), is $410. Additionally, you may need to pay an $85 biometrics cost, depending upon your eligibility category. It’s necessary to inspect the USCIS website for the most updated fee information.

After You Receive Your Form I-766

Congratulations! Once you get your Form I-766, you’re formally authorized to work in the U.S. You can provide this card to potential employers as proof of your work eligibility. Remember, it’s vital to renew your EAD before it ends to keep your work authorization.

Renewing or Replacing Your Form I-766

If your EAD is lost, stolen, damaged, or contains incorrect info, employment you’ll need to use for a replacement. Similarly, if your EAD is expiring, you’ll need to renew it to continue working legally. In both cases, you’ll require to submit a brand-new Form I-765 and pay the needed fees.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need an EAD if I’m adjusting my status to a permit? Yes, if you have a pending Form I-485 (Adjustment of Status), you’ll need to look for an EAD to work while your application is being processed.
Can I get Form I-766 with a K-1 visa? Technically, you can deal with a K-1 visa, however it’s suggested to wait until after you’re married and obtain an EAD, as K-1 visas usually end within 90 days.
The length of time is the processing time for Form I-765? Processing times can vary, employment however USCIS typically intends to process applications within a couple of months.
Can I travel outside the U.S. while my EAD is pending? It’s not recommended to take a trip while your EAD application is pending, as it could complicate your migration procedure.

Final Words

Form I-766, the Employment Authorization Document, is an important tool for numerous nonimmigrants looking for to work lawfully in the United States. It’s a testament to the U.S.’s dedication to inviting proficient people from around the world and employment permitting them to contribute their talents to the American labor force. By comprehending the eligibility requirements, application procedure, and potential obstacles associated with Form I-766, you can navigate this important step in your migration journey with confidence and clarity. Please speak with an immigration lawyer for more details.