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 a recognition card that U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) problems to certain certifying foreign nationals to operate in the United States. Lots of people describe 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 specific authorized to work and might include the person’s fingerprint. A foreign national who has an EAD typically has open-market employment authorization, but 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 valid up until it’s expiration date. Depending on the person’s immigration 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 classifications may be immediately extended beyond the credibility date on the card.
Eligibility for a Work Authorization Document
There are basically two various types of nonimmigrants who might be eligible to ask for an EAD. Certain foreign nationals are authorized to operate in the United States based on their immigration status. Although they are already licensed to work, they might need proof of that privilege. Examples consist of asylees and refugees. Other foreign nationals are inside the U.S. but need to request special approval to accept employment. Examples include adjustment of status candidates, DACA, asylum candidates, and specific students.
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Permanent residents (green card holders) do not require an Employment Authorization Document. The green card is proof of the cardholder’s status and work permission. Likewise, nonimmigrants authorized to be utilized with a particular company 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 may request one with Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization. Sometimes, the initial ask for work permission must be sent with the application for the underlying status.
Typically, a candidate should include the following products for a preliminary request:
– Form I-765
USCIS charges
– Copy of Form I-94 Arrival/Departure Record
– Two passport-style photos
– Proof of eligibility
The list above is a generalization. In other words, applicants should send other specific supporting files depending on the qualifying basis of eligibility. Additionally, certain initial I-765 demands get submitted with the primary application.
Mistakes on your Form I-765 can trigger pricey hold-ups or a denial.
Applicants that prepare Form I-765 through CitizenPath’s service also receive customized filing guidelines. The filing guidelines will be based upon your specific situation and will discuss exactly what documents to send out with Form I-765.
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Renewal
You may renew your Employment Authorization Document if you are still qualified for work authorization. File a new Form I-765 and choose the «renewal» option. Generally, you must not apply for a renewal EAD more than 180 days before your newest EAD ends.
Replacement
You may change your Employment Authorization Document if your newest EAD is lost, stolen or damaged. File a brand-new Form I-765 and select the «replacement» option. If you did not get an EAD that USCIS mailed, you can send a questions on non-delivery of a card.
