What is A Work Authorization Document (Form I-766)?
Home” What is a Work Authorization Document (Form I-766)?
What is a Work Authorization Document (Form I-766)?
May 9, 2021
An Employment Authorization Document (EAD) is a recognition card that U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) issues to certain certifying foreign nationals to operate in the United States. Many individuals refer to the card as a work permit. At USCIS, the Employment Authorization Document is known as Form I-766.
The EAD card includes a photograph of the private 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 document for employers.
EAD Validity Period
Generally, a Work Authorization Card is only valid until it’s expiration date. Depending upon the individual’s migration status, USCIS normally problems cards for a two-year duration or less. However, specific EADs held by people with Temporary Protected Status (TPS) and other designated categories may be immediately extended beyond the validity date on the card.
Eligibility for a Work Authorization Document
There are essentially 2 different types of nonimmigrants who might be qualified to ask for an EAD. Certain foreign nationals are authorized to operate in the United States based upon their immigration status. Although they are already authorized to work, they may need proof of that privilege. Examples include asylees and refugees. Other foreign nationals are inside the U.S. however need to ask for unique approval to accept employment. Examples consist of change of status candidates, DACA, asylum applicants, and specific trainees.
RECOMMENDED: List of Eligibility Categories for EAD
Permanent locals (green card holders) do not need a Work Authorization Document. The permit is evidence of the cardholder’s status and work permission. Likewise, nonimmigrants authorized 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 eligible for an Employment Authorization Document may ask for 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, a candidate ought to include the following products for an initial request:
– Form I-765
USCIS fees
– Copy of Form I-94 Arrival/Departure Record
– Two passport-style photos
– Proof of eligibility
The list above is a generalization. Simply put, applicants need to submit other specific supporting documents depending on the qualifying basis of eligibility. Additionally, particular preliminary I-765 requests get submitted with the main application.
Mistakes on your Form I-765 can cause costly delays or a rejection.
Applicants that prepare Form I-765 through CitizenPath’s service likewise get individualized filing instructions. The filing directions will be based on your particular situation and will discuss exactly what documents to send out with Form I-765.
RECOMMENDED: How to Obtain a U.S. Work Permit
Renewal
You may renew your Employment Authorization Document if you are still eligible for work authorization. File a new Form I-765 and select the “renewal” alternative. Generally, you should not file for a renewal EAD more than 180 days before your most recent EAD ends.
Replacement
You might replace your Employment Authorization Document if your newest EAD is lost, taken or destroyed. File a new Form I-765 and choose the “replacement” alternative. If you did not receive an EAD that USCIS sent by mail, you can send a query on non-delivery of a card.
