Form I-766, Explained: your Employment Authorization Document (EAD) for Working in The U.S.
Form I-766, Explained: Your Employment Authorization Document (EAD) for Operating In the U.S.
Form I-766 is more commonly referred to as the Employment Authorization Document (EAD) or job work permit. It’s a physical card released by U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) that grants specific nonimmigrant visa holders the legal right to work in the United States. It works as tangible proof to potential employers that you have the needed permission to contribute your abilities and expertise to the American labor force.
Navigating the detailed landscape of U.S. migration law can be daunting, especially when it concerns securing employment authorization. Form I-766 plays a critical role in this procedure, enabling eligible individuals to pursue their career aspirations while their migration status is pending or under specific visa classifications. In this comprehensive guide, we will dive into the details of Form I-766, exploring its purpose, eligibility requirements, application procedure, and numerous circumstances where it becomes essential.
Table of Contents
Who Needs Form I-766?
Form I-765 vs. Form I-766: What’s the Difference?
How to Look For Form I-766?
Where to Submit Your Form I-765?
Cost of Form I-766
After You Receive Your Form I-766
Renewing or Replacing Your Form I-766
Frequently Asked Questions
Final Words
Who Needs Form I-766?
Not all nonimmigrant visa holders require a Work Authorization Document (EAD). U.S. citizens and legal irreversible locals (green card holders) are automatically authorized to work and do not need to obtain an EAD. Similarly, some nonimmigrant visas inherently grant work permission, such as H-1B visas for specialized professions.
However, if you fall under particular nonimmigrant classifications or require special authorization to work, you needForm I-766 becomes your vital tool. This consists of:
– Individuals qualified for Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA).
– Refugees and Asylees.
– Individuals with U nonimmigrant status.
– Applicants with pending Form I-485 (Adjustment of Status) applications.
– F-1 or M-1 students whose visas do not instantly permit work.
– Dependents or partners of specific employment-based nonimmigrant visa holders
Form I-765 vs. Form I-766: What’s the Difference?
You may be wondering about the distinction in between Form I-765 and Form I-766. In essence, they represent 2 sides of the very same coin. Form I-765 is the real application you submit to request employment authorization, while Form I-766 is the physical EAD card you receive upon approval. Think About Form I-765 as the request, and Form I-766 as the given consent.
How to Obtain Form I-766?
The application process for Form I-766 involves finishing Form I-765 and offering supporting documents to show your eligibility. It’s like assembling the pieces of a puzzle, guaranteeing you have all the essential parts to provide a total and convincing case.
The general requirements for obtaining an EAD consist of:
– Two identical passport-style photographs.
– A copy of your U.S. visa.
– A copy of your current EAD (if appropriate)
In addition to these basic requirements, you’ll require to send specific evidence based upon your visa classification. For example, if you’re using as a refugee, you’ll need to supply your last notification of eligibility for resettlement and your Form I-797. If you’re using under Temporary Protected Status (TPS), you’ll need to send proof of your TPS approval.
Where to Submit Your Form I-765?
The filing address for Form I-765 depends on your eligibility classification and your present location. USCIS provides a breakdown of direct filing addresses on its website. It’s important to send your application to the right address to prevent delays or possible rejection.
Cost of Form I-766
The filing cost for Form I-765, which causes the issuance of Form I-766 (EAD), job is $410. Additionally, you may require to pay an $85 biometrics charge, depending upon your eligibility classification. It’s vital to inspect the USCIS site for the most updated charge information.
After You Receive Your Form I-766
Congratulations! Once you get your Form I-766, you’re formally licensed to work in the U.S. You can provide this card to possible employers as proof of your work eligibility. Remember, it’s important to renew your EAD before it expires to keep your work permission.
Renewing or Replacing Your Form I-766
If your EAD is lost, stolen, harmed, or includes inaccurate info, you’ll need to obtain a replacement. Similarly, if your EAD is expiring, you’ll need to restore it to continue working legally. In both cases, you’ll to submit a brand-new Form I-765 and pay the required costs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I require an EAD if I’m adjusting my status to a permit? Yes, if you have a pending Form I-485 (Adjustment of Status), you’ll require to apply for an EAD to work while your application is being processed.
Can I get Form I-766 with a K-1 visa? Technically, you can work on a K-1 visa, but it’s suggested to wait up until after you’re wed and make an application for an EAD, as K-1 visas usually end within 90 days.
How long is the processing time for job Form I-765? Processing times can vary, however USCIS typically aims to process applications within a couple of months.
Can I take a trip outside the U.S. while my EAD is pending? It’s not suggested to take a trip while your EAD application is pending, as it could complicate your immigration process.
Final Words
Form I-766, the Employment Authorization Document, is an essential tool for many nonimmigrants looking for to work lawfully in the United States. It’s a testament to the U.S.’s dedication to welcoming skilled people from all over the world and permitting them to contribute their talents to the American labor force. By comprehending the eligibility requirements, application procedure, and prospective difficulties connected with Form I-766, you can browse this essential action in your immigration journey with confidence and clearness. Please seek advice from a migration lawyer for more details.
