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

A Work Authorization Document (EAD) is an identification card that U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) issues to certain qualifying foreign nationals to operate in the United States. Many individuals refer to the card as a work license. At USCIS, the Employment Authorization Document is called Form I-766.

The EAD card consists of a picture of the individual licensed to work and might consist of the individual’s finger print. A foreign national who has an EAD normally 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, an Employment Authorization Card is just legitimate until it’s expiration date. Depending upon the individual’s migration status, USCIS generally issues cards for a two-year duration or less. However, certain EADs held by people with Temporary Protected Status (TPS) and other designated categories may be instantly extended beyond the validity date on the card.

Eligibility for a Work Authorization Document

There are essentially two different types of nonimmigrants who may be eligible to ask for an EAD. Certain foreign nationals are licensed to operate in the United States based upon their immigration status. Although they are currently authorized to work, they might need evidence 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 include adjustment of status candidates, DACA, asylum applicants, and specific students.

RECOMMENDED: List of Eligibility Categories for EAD

Permanent homeowners (green card holders) do not need an Employment Authorization Document. The permit is evidence of the cardholder’s status and work authorization. Likewise, nonimmigrants licensed to be used with a particular employer do not require an EAD. Examples of nonimmigrants with this status consist of H-1B and TN visa.

RECOMMENDED: U.S. Work Visa Types for Foreign Nationals

How to Request an EAD

Foreign nationals who are qualified for an Employment Authorization Document might ask for one with Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization. In some cases, the initial demand for work permission should be sent with the application for the underlying status.

Typically, a candidate should consist of the following items for an initial request:

– Form I-765

USCIS fees

– Copy of Form I-94 Arrival/Departure Record

– Two passport-style pictures

– Proof of eligibility

The list above is a generalization. Simply put, candidates must submit other specific supporting files depending on the qualifying basis of eligibility. Additionally, particular preliminary I-765 requests get sent with the main application.

Mistakes on your Form I-765 can trigger costly hold-ups or a rejection.

Applicants that prepare Form I-765 through CitizenPath’s service likewise receive personalized filing directions. The filing guidelines will be based upon your particular situation and will explain precisely what documents to send out with Form I-765.

RECOMMENDED: How to Look for a U.S. Work Permit

Renewal

You may restore your Employment Authorization Document if you are still qualified for work authorization. File a brand-new Form I-765 and pick the “renewal” option. Generally, you ought to not apply for a renewal EAD more than 180 days before your latest EAD ends.

Replacement

You may replace your Employment Authorization Document if your most recent EAD is lost, stolen or ruined. File a new Form I-765 and select the “replacement” choice. If you did not receive an EAD that USCIS mailed, you can submit an inquiry on non-delivery of a card.

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