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 Working in the U.S.

Form I-766 is more frequently called the Employment Authorization Document (EAD) or work allow. It’s a physical card released by U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) that grants specific nonimmigrant visa holders the legal right to operate in the United States. It functions as concrete evidence to prospective employers that you have the essential permission to contribute your abilities and expertise to the American workforce.

Navigating the elaborate landscape of U.S. migration law can be overwhelming, especially when it pertains to protecting employment authorization. Form I-766 plays a pivotal function in this process, job making it possible for qualified individuals to pursue their profession aspirations while their migration status is pending or under particular visa categories. In this detailed guide, we will look into the information of Form I-766, exploring its function, eligibility requirements, application procedure, and different scenarios where it becomes indispensable.

Tabulation

Who Needs Form I-766?

Form I-765 vs. Form I-766: What’s the Difference?

How to Obtain 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 need an Employment Authorization Document (EAD). U.S. people and legal irreversible citizens (green card holders) are instantly authorized to work and do not require to apply for an EAD. Similarly, some nonimmigrant visas naturally approve work permission, such as H-1B visas for specialized occupations.

However, if you fall under specific nonimmigrant classifications or job require special permission to work, you needForm I-766 becomes your vital tool. This includes:

– 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 whose visas do not immediately enable employment.
– Dependents or job spouses of certain employment-based nonimmigrant visa holders

Form I-765 vs. Form I-766: job What’s the Difference?

You might be questioning the difference in between Form I-765 and Form I-766. In essence, they represent two sides of the same coin. Form I-765 is the actual application you send to request employment authorization, while Form I-766 is the physical EAD card you get upon approval. Consider Form I-765 as the demand, and Form I-766 as the granted consent.

How to Request Form I-766?

The application procedure for Form I-766 involves finishing Form I-765 and providing supporting documentation to show your eligibility. It’s like assembling the pieces of a puzzle, guaranteeing you have all the necessary components to provide a complete and persuading case.

The general requirements for making an application for an EAD include:

– Two similar passport-style photos.
– A copy of your U.S. visa.
– A copy of your current EAD (if suitable)

In addition to these general requirements, you’ll need to send particular evidence based upon your visa category. For instance, if you’re applying as a refugee, you’ll require to offer your last notice 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 category and your present area. USCIS provides an in-depth list of direct filing addresses on its site. It’s vital to send your application to the correct address to avoid delays or prospective rejection.

Cost of Form I-766

The filing fee for Form I-765, which leads to the issuance of Form I-766 (EAD), is $410. Additionally, you might require to pay an $85 biometrics cost, depending upon your eligibility category. It’s necessary to check the USCIS website for the most current cost details.

After You Receive Your Form I-766

Congratulations! Once you receive your Form I-766, you’re officially authorized to work in the U.S. You can present this card to possible employers as evidence of your work eligibility. Remember, it’s important to restore your EAD before it expires to preserve your work authorization.

Renewing or Replacing Your Form I-766

If your EAD is lost, stolen, damaged, or consists of incorrect information, you’ll need to obtain a replacement. Similarly, if your EAD is ending, you’ll need to renew it to continue working legally. In both cases, you’ll require to file a new Form I-765 and job pay the required charges.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need an EAD if I’m changing my status to a green card? Yes, if you have a pending Form I-485 (Adjustment of Status), you’ll require to get 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, however it’s recommended to wait till after you’re married and make an application for an EAD, as K-1 visas typically end within 90 days.
How long is the processing time for Form I-765? Processing times can vary, job but USCIS normally intends to process applications within a few months.
Can I travel outside the U.S. while my EAD is pending? It’s not advised 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 a crucial tool for lots of nonimmigrants seeking to work lawfully in the United States. It’s a testimony to the U.S.’s commitment to welcoming competent individuals from around the world and enabling them to contribute their talents to the American labor force. By comprehending the eligibility requirements, job application process, and possible obstacles related to Form I-766, you can navigate this important action in your immigration journey with self-confidence and clearness. Please speak with an immigration lawyer for additional information.