Form I-766, Explained: your Employment Authorization Document (EAD) for Working in The U.S.

Form I-766, Explained: Your Employment Authorization (EAD) for Working in the U.S.

Form I-766 is more commonly called the Employment Authorization Document (EAD) or work permit. It’s a physical card provided by U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) that grants certain nonimmigrant visa holders the legal right to work in the United States. It functions as tangible evidence to potential employers that you have the needed permission to contribute your abilities and know-how to the American workforce.

Navigating the intricate landscape of U.S. migration law can be complicated, specifically when it concerns securing employment authorization. Form I-766 plays an essential function in this procedure, allowing qualified people to pursue their career goals while their migration status is pending or under specific visa categories. In this detailed guide, we will delve into the details of Form I-766, exploring its function, eligibility requirements, application procedure, and different scenarios where it becomes important.

Tabulation

Who Needs Form I-766?

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

How to Apply 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 need an Employment Authorization Document (EAD). U.S. residents and lawful permanent locals (permit holders) are immediately licensed to work and do not require to obtain an EAD. Similarly, some nonimmigrant visas naturally approve work authorization, such as H-1B visas for specialty occupations.

However, if you fall under specific nonimmigrant classifications or need unique approval to work, you needForm I-766 becomes your vital tool. This includes:

– Individuals eligible 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 trainees whose visas do not immediately permit employment.
– Dependents or partners of certain employment-based nonimmigrant visa holders

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

You may be wondering about 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 real application you submit to ask for employment permission, while Form I-766 is the physical EAD card you get upon approval. Think of Form I-765 as the demand, and Form I-766 as the granted permission.

How to Obtain Form I-766?

The application procedure for Form I-766 includes finishing Form I-765 and offering supporting documentation to demonstrate your eligibility. It resembles putting together the pieces of a puzzle, guaranteeing you have all the necessary parts to present a complete and persuading case.

The basic requirements for requesting an EAD consist of:

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

In addition to these basic requirements, you’ll need to submit particular proof based on your visa category. For somalibidders.com example, if you’re using as a refugee, you’ll need to provide 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 submit evidence of your TPS approval.

Where to Submit Your Form I-765?

The filing address for Form I-765 depends upon your eligibility category and your current place. USCIS offers a comprehensive list of direct filing addresses on its site. It’s essential to send your application to the appropriate address to prevent hold-ups or potential rejection.

Cost of Form I-766

The filing fee for Form I-765, which causes the issuance of Form I-766 (EAD), is $410. Additionally, you might require to pay an $85 biometrics fee, depending on your eligibility category. It’s vital to check the USCIS site for the most updated charge information.

After You Receive Your Form I-766

Congratulations! Once you receive your Form I-766, you’re officially authorized to operate in the U.S. You can provide this card to potential employers as evidence of your work eligibility. Remember, referall.us it’s crucial to renew your EAD before it ends to maintain your work permission.

Renewing or Replacing Your Form I-766

If your EAD is lost, stolen, damaged, or includes inaccurate info, you’ll need to request a replacement. Similarly, if your EAD is expiring, you’ll require to renew it to continue working legally. In both cases, you’ll require to submit a new Form I-765 and pay the needed costs.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I require 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 obtain an EAD to work while your application is being processed.
Can I obtain Form I-766 with a K-1 visa? Technically, you can work on a K-1 visa, however it’s recommended to wait until after you’re wed and get an EAD, as K-1 visas typically expire within 90 days.
For how long is the processing time for Form I-765? Processing times can differ, however USCIS normally aims to process applications within a few months.
Can I travel outside the U.S. while my EAD is pending? It’s not suggested to travel while your EAD application is pending, as it might complicate your migration 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 inviting skilled individuals from all over the world and permitting them to contribute their talents to the American labor force. By comprehending the eligibility requirements, application process, and possible difficulties connected with Form I-766, you can browse this essential action in your immigration journey with self-confidence and clarity. Please seek advice from an immigration attorney for more details.