What is A Work Authorization Document (Form I-766)?
Home” What is a Work Authorization Document (Form I-766)?
What is an Employment 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) issues to particular certifying foreign nationals to work in the United States. Many individuals refer to the card as a work license. At USCIS, the Employment Authorization Document is known as Form I-766.
The EAD card consists of a picture of the private licensed to work and might include the individual’s finger print. A foreign national who has an EAD usually has open-market work authorization, but there are exceptions. The card (Form I-766) is a valid I-9 file for companies.
EAD Validity Period
Generally, a Work Authorization Card is just legitimate up until it’s expiration date. Depending on the individual’s immigration status, USCIS usually concerns cards for a two-year duration or less. However, particular EADs held by individuals 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 basically two various types of nonimmigrants who might be eligible 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 need proof of that benefit. Examples include asylees and refugees. Other foreign nationals are inside the U.S. but need to request special permission to accept employment. Examples consist of change of status applicants, DACA, asylum applicants, and specific trainees.
RECOMMENDED: List of Eligibility Categories for EAD
Permanent citizens (permit holders) do not need a Work Authorization Document. The permit is proof of the cardholder’s status and work permission. Likewise, nonimmigrants licensed to be used with a particular employer do not need 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 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 submitted 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. To put it simply, candidates should send other particular supporting documents depending upon the certifying basis of eligibility. Additionally, certain preliminary I-765 requests get submitted with the primary application.
Mistakes on your Form I-765 can cause pricey hold-ups or a denial.
Applicants that prepare Form I-765 through CitizenPath’s service likewise get personalized filing instructions. The filing directions will be based on your specific scenario and will describe precisely what files to send with Form I-765.
RECOMMENDED: How to Obtain a U.S. Work Permit
Renewal
You might renew your Employment Authorization Document if you are still eligible for work permission. File a brand-new Form I-765 and pick the “renewal” alternative. Generally, you ought to not declare a renewal EAD more than 180 days before your latest EAD ends.
Replacement
You may replace your Employment Authorization Document if your latest EAD is lost, stolen or damaged. File a new Form I-765 and pick the “replacement” choice. If you did not receive an EAD that USCIS sent by mail, you can send a query on non-delivery of a card.
