Home" What is a Work Authorization Document (Form I-766)?
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. Lots of people describe the card as a work permit. At USCIS, the Employment Authorization Document is understood as Form I-766.
The EAD card consists of a photograph of the individual authorized to work and might include the individual's fingerprint. A foreign nationwide who has an EAD typically has open-market employment authorization, however there are exceptions. The card (Form I-766) is a legitimate I-9 file for employers.
EAD Validity Period
Generally, an Employment Authorization Card is just legitimate till it's expiration date. Depending on the individual's immigration status, USCIS normally concerns cards for a two-year period or less. However, specific EADs held by individuals with Temporary Protected Status (TPS) and other designated categories may be automatically extended beyond the credibility date on the card.
Eligibility for an Employment Authorization Document
There are fundamentally two different kinds of nonimmigrants who might be qualified to request an EAD. Certain foreign nationals are licensed to work in the United States based on their migration status. Although they are currently authorized to work, they may need proof of that privilege. Examples consist of asylees and refugees. Other foreign nationals are inside the U.S. but require to request special consent to accept work. Examples consist of adjustment of status applicants, DACA, asylum hunters, and specific trainees.
RECOMMENDED: List of Eligibility Categories for EAD
Permanent residents (green card holders) do not require a Work Authorization Document. The green card is proof of the cardholder's status and work authorization. Likewise, nonimmigrants authorized to be employed with a particular 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 qualified for an Employment Authorization Document may request one with Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization. Sometimes, the preliminary ask for work permission should be sent with the application for the underlying status.
Typically, an applicant needs to consist of the following items for an initial request:
- 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. To put it simply, candidates should send other particular supporting files depending upon the qualifying basis of eligibility. Additionally, particular preliminary I-765 demands get submitted with the main application.
Mistakes on your Form I-765 can trigger expensive delays or a denial.
Applicants that prepare Form I-765 through CitizenPath's service also get personalized filing guidelines. The filing directions will be based upon your specific circumstance and will discuss exactly what documents to send with Form I-765.
RECOMMENDED: How to Get a U.S. Work Permit
Renewal
You might restore your Employment Authorization Document if you are still eligible for work authorization. File a new Form I-765 and choose the "renewal" option. Generally, you must not declare a renewal EAD more than 180 days before your most recent EAD ends.
Replacement
You might replace your Employment Authorization Document if your most recent EAD is lost, stolen or damaged. File a new Form I-765 and pick the "replacement" choice. If you did not get an EAD that USCIS mailed, you can send an inquiry on non-delivery of a card.
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What is an Employment Authorization Document (Form I 766)?
Adolph Brinkman edited this page 4 months ago