What is A Work 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 a recognition card that U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) issues to particular certifying foreign nationals to operate in the United States. Many individuals refer to the card as a work authorization. At USCIS, the Employment Authorization Document is understood as Form I-766.

The EAD card includes a picture of the private licensed to work and may include the person’s finger print. A foreign national who has an EAD usually 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, an Employment Authorization Card is just valid till it’s expiration date. Depending on the person’s migration status, USCIS normally issues cards for a two-year duration or less. However, certain EADs held by individuals with Temporary Protected Status (TPS) and other designated classifications might be instantly extended beyond the validity date on the card.

Eligibility for a Work Authorization Document

There are fundamentally two various types of nonimmigrants who might be eligible to request an EAD. Certain foreign nationals are authorized to work in the United States based on their immigration status. Although they are currently licensed to work, they may need evidence of that advantage. Examples include asylees and refugees. Other foreign nationals are inside the U.S. but require to ask for special authorization to accept work. Examples consist of adjustment of status applicants, DACA, asylum applicants, and specific trainees.

RECOMMENDED: List of Eligibility Categories for EAD

Permanent residents (permit holders) do not need an Employment Authorization Document. The permit is proof of the cardholder’s status and work authorization. Likewise, nonimmigrants authorized to be employed with a particular 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 might request one with Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization. Sometimes, the initial request for work authorization must be sent with the application for the underlying status.

Typically, an applicant should include the following products 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. In other words, applicants need to send other particular supporting files depending upon the certifying basis of eligibility. Additionally, specific initial I-765 requests get submitted with the primary application.

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

Applicants that prepare Form I-765 through CitizenPath’s service also receive individualized filing directions. The filing guidelines will be based on your specific situation and will discuss precisely what files to send out with Form I-765.

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

Renewal

You might restore your Employment Authorization Document if you are still qualified for work authorization. File a new Form I-765 and select the “renewal” alternative. Generally, you ought to not apply for a renewal EAD more than 180 days before your most current EAD expires.

Replacement

You might replace your Employment Authorization Document if your most recent EAD is lost, stolen or ruined. File a new Form I-765 and select the “replacement” option. If you did not get an EAD that USCIS mailed, you can submit an inquiry on non-delivery of a card.

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