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

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

The EAD card includes a photograph of the specific licensed to work and might include the individual’s fingerprint. A foreign national who has an EAD usually 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 valid up until it’s expiration date. Depending upon the person’s migration status, USCIS typically problems cards for a two-year duration or less. However, certain EADs held by individuals with Temporary Protected Status (TPS) and other designated categories might be instantly extended beyond the validity date on the card.

Eligibility for an Employment Authorization Document

There are basically two different kinds of nonimmigrants who may be qualified to ask for an EAD. Certain foreign nationals are licensed to operate in the United States based upon their migration status. Although they are currently licensed to work, they might require proof of that privilege. Examples include asylees and refugees. Other foreign nationals are inside the U.S. however need to ask for special consent to accept employment. Examples include modification of status applicants, DACA, asylum hunters, and specific students.

RECOMMENDED: List of Eligibility Categories for EAD

Permanent locals (green card holders) do not require an Employment Authorization Document. The permit is proof of the cardholder’s status and work permission. Likewise, nonimmigrants licensed to be used with a specific employer 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 qualified for an Employment Authorization Document may request one with Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization. In some cases, the preliminary demand for work authorization must be sent with the application for the underlying status.

Typically, a candidate ought to include the following items for a preliminary request:

– Form I-765

USCIS costs

– Copy of Form I-94 Arrival/Departure Record

– Two passport-style photos

– Proof of eligibility

The list above is a generalization. Simply put, candidates should submit other specific supporting documents depending upon the certifying basis of eligibility. Additionally, particular initial I-765 demands get submitted with the main application.

Mistakes on your Form I-765 can trigger expensive hold-ups or a denial.

Applicants that prepare Form I-765 through CitizenPath’s service also receive customized filing instructions. The filing instructions will be based on your particular circumstance and will describe precisely what files to send out with Form I-765.

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

Renewal

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

Replacement

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

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