What is A Work Authorization Document (Form I-766)?
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What is a Work Authorization Document (Form I-766)?
May 9, 2021
An Employment 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. Many people describe 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 individual licensed to work and may include the person's finger print. A foreign nationwide who has an EAD usually has open-market work permission, 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 till it's expiration date. Depending upon the person's migration status, USCIS normally problems cards for a two-year period or less. However, specific EADs held by people with Temporary Protected Status (TPS) and other designated categories may be instantly extended beyond the validity date on the card.
Eligibility for an Employment Authorization Document
There are basically 2 different kinds of nonimmigrants who may be eligible to ask for an EAD. Certain foreign nationals are authorized to work in the United States based upon their immigration status. Although they are already licensed to work, they might require proof of that opportunity. Examples consist of asylees and refugees. Other foreign nationals are inside the U.S. but require to ask for unique approval to accept work. Examples include adjustment of status applicants, DACA, asylum seekers, and particular trainees.
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Permanent citizens (permit holders) do not require an Employment Authorization Document. The green card is proof of the cardholder's status and work authorization. Likewise, nonimmigrants authorized to be used with a particular company do not need 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 might request one with Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization. In many cases, the preliminary ask for work permission need to be submitted with the application for the underlying status.
Typically, an applicant must consist of 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. Simply put, candidates need to send other particular supporting documents depending on the qualifying basis of eligibility. Additionally, particular initial I-765 demands get sent with the main application.
Mistakes on your Form I-765 can trigger expensive delays or a rejection.
Applicants that prepare Form I-765 through CitizenPath's service also get personalized filing guidelines. The filing directions will be based upon your particular situation and will describe exactly what documents to send with Form I-765.
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Renewal
You might restore your Employment Authorization Document if you are still eligible for work authorization. File a brand-new Form I-765 and choose the "renewal" option. Generally, you ought to not apply for a renewal EAD more than 180 days before your most recent EAD expires.
Replacement
You might change your Employment Authorization Document if your most current EAD is lost, taken or destroyed. File a brand-new Form I-765 and select the "replacement" option. If you did not receive an EAD that USCIS sent by mail, you can send a query on non-delivery of a card.