FAQ: What Is Employment Authorization Card?

Is an employment authorization card the same as a visa?

Both, an Employment Authorization Document (EAD) and a non-immigrant work visa allow the holders to work in the United States, but both documents are not the same. The eligibility requirements for an EAD is different from that of a work visa.

How do I get an employment authorization card?

How to Apply for an EAD?

1. Step 1: File Form I-765. Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization is the main form for the EAD.
2. Step 2: Attach supporting documents. The documents you will attach will be proof that you are eligible for an EAD.
3. Step 3: Attach the fee receipts.
4. Step 4: Submit the application.

What does the EAD card allow you to do?

Employment Authorization Documents (EAD) are granted when an individual has a pending Immigration Petition for Permanent Residence or I-485. The card permits non-citizens to legally work in the United States for a U.S. employer.

What is the difference between EAD and green card?

First, EAD cards allow immigrants to temporarily work for a specific job, while green card holders become permanent residents of the U.S. Another difference between these two cards is the freedoms allowed. With an EAD card, you need to file for a travel document to get in and out of the country.

Can I use my employment authorization card as an ID?

Other acceptable forms of identification A USCIS Employment Authorization Document (EAD); A U.S. lawful permanent resident card (green card); or. An enhanced driver’s license (EDL) (even if your state is not otherwise compliant with REAL ID).

Can you work anywhere with an EAD card?

Generally, a person with EAD can work for any US employer and a multiple of US employers. However, F-1 students with EAD solely due to a STEM-OPT extension can only work for an employer who has enrolled in E-Verify. Multiple employers are permitted, but each employer must be enrolled in E-Verify.

How much does an employment authorization card cost?

USCIS Filing fees for Employment Authorization Document USCIS filing fees to file Form I-765 is $410. You’ll also have to pay an additional $85 fee if a biometric service fee applies to your situation.

WHO issues an employment authorization card?

A Form I-765 employment authorization document (EAD; [1]) or EAD card, known popularly as a work permit, is a document issued by the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) that provides temporary employment authorization to noncitizens in the United States.

How long is an employment authorization card good for?

The combined travel and employment authorization card will be valid for one year, if the applicant’s immigrant visa is currently available. If the immigrant visa is not currently available, then the combined card will be valid for two years.

What happens after EAD is approved?

If USCIS approves your application, you will receive two documents – your Employment Authorization Document (EAD), also known as the “USCIS I-766 card” or “work permit”, and in another envelope your SSN card. You should receive your SSN card no later than 7 business days after you receive your EAD from USCIS.

How long can you stay on EAD without job?

Practically forever (just half kidding). There is no time limit. With your I-485 having been filed and pending for more than 180 days you are in great shape to “port” to another employer, as long as in the “same” or “similar” “occupation”.

Can I work with EAD without SSN?

You can start to work without an SSN, if you have an employment authorization document, but you must obtain the number and provide it to your employer later.

Do I need an EAD if I have a green card?

You do not need to apply for an EAD if you are a lawful permanent resident. Your Green Card (Form I-551, Permanent Resident Card) is evidence of your employment authorization.

Can you receive green card before EAD?

Absolutely, once the I-485 is approved, there is no longer any need for EAD and AP because you can work and travel with the green card.

How long is green card EAD valid?

Once you receive your GC EAD and begin working it is typically valid for one year. You must renew your EAD within 180 days of expiring, otherwise after the expiration date you will no longer be legally permitted to work in the US.