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CB Immigration:
Your Trusted Partner in Immigration Law
At CB Immigration Law, we understand your trust in our firm is paramount, and we are dedicated to providing unwavering support throughout your immigration journey. We recognize the intricate nature of immigration laws and the challenges they pose. The immigration process can be complex, challenging, and cumbersome. Our experienced team is here to navigate you through the complexities of the immigration process with expertise and dedication, ensuring your peace of mind every step of the way.
Employment Authorization Document
What is an Employment Authorization Document?
An Employment Authorization Document (EAD), also known as a work permit, is a document issued by the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) that allows certain foreign nationals to work legally in the United States for a specific period of time. The EAD serves as evidence that the holder is authorized to work in the U.S. and may be required by employers as part of the employment verification process.
What is the Purpose of an Employment Authorization Document?
An EAD grants the holder authorization to work in the United States for a specific employer, or in some cases, any employer, depending on the individual's immigration status and eligibility category.
Who May Be Issued an Employment Authorization Document?
EADs may be issued to individuals in various non-immigrant and immigrant categories, including but not limited to asylum seekers, refugees, certain visa holders (e.g., H-4 spouses, L-2 spouses), adjustment of status applicants, Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) recipients, and individuals with Temporary Protected Status (TPS).
How Long Are Employment Authorization Documents Valid For?
The validity period of an EAD varies depending on the individual's immigration status and eligibility category. EADs are typically issued for a specific period, usually one to two years, and may be renewable in certain cases.
What Are the Conditions of an Employment Authorization Document?
EAD holders are authorized to work in the United States for the duration specified on the EAD card and within the limitations of their immigration status. They must comply with any restrictions or conditions imposed by their visa or immigration status.
Can I Work Without an Employment Authorization Document?
Employers are required to verify the identity and employment authorization of all employees, including EAD holders, by completing Form I-9, Employment Eligibility Verification, and retaining records of the documentation provided by the employee. Working in the United States without proper authorization, such as an EAD or other valid work permit, is a violation of immigration law and can have serious consequences, including deportation or removal from the country, ineligibility for future immigration benefits, and other penalties.
The EAD Process
01
Determine Eligibility
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Determine whether you are eligible to apply for an EAD based on your immigration status, visa category, or pending immigration application. Eligible individuals include, but are not limited to, H-4 visa holders, F-1 students seeking Optional Practical Training (OPT), spouses of certain visa holders, asylum applicants, and adjustment of status applicants.
02
Prepare and Submit Form Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization
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Obtain and complete Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization. This form is used to request an EAD and must be filed with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). Ensure that you use the most current version of the form and provide accurate and complete information.
03
Gather Supporting Documents
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Gather any required supporting documents to submit with your Form I-765. This may include a copy of your passport, visa, I-94 Arrival/Departure Record, immigration documents proving your eligibility category, and any other documents specified in the form instructions.
Pre-Submission
04
Filing Fee
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Pay the required filing fee for the Form I-765, unless you qualify for a fee waiver based on certain eligibility criteria. Check the USCIS website or the form instructions for the current filing fee amount and payment methods accepted.
05
Submit Application Package
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Compile your completed Form I-765, supporting documents, and filing fee payment (if applicable) into a single application package. Mail the package to the appropriate USCIS Lockbox facility based on your eligibility category and place of residence.
06
Receipt Notice
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Once USCIS receives your application package, they will issue a receipt notice confirming receipt of your application. This notice will include a receipt number that you can use to track the status of your application online.
07
Biometrics Appointment (if required)
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If USCIS requires biometric information (fingerprints, photograph) as part of the application process, you will be scheduled for a biometrics appointment at a designated USCIS Application Support Center (ASC).
08
EAD Processing
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USCIS will review your Form I-765 and supporting documents, conduct any necessary background checks, and make a decision on your EAD application. Processing times vary depending on the volume of applications and USCIS workload.
Update Social Security and USCIS Records
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If your EAD application is approved, USCIS will mail your Employment Authorization Document (EAD card) to the address you provided on your application. If your application is denied, USCIS will notify you of the reasons for the denial and provide information on how to appeal the decision, if applicable.
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EAD Renewal
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If your EAD has an expiration date, you may need to apply for a renewal of your EAD to continue working legally in the United States. Follow the same process outlined above to submit a renewal application before your current EAD expires.
Post-Submission
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Connecting Borders, Building Futures:
Your Immigration Journey Starts Here
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APPOINTMENTS ARE REQUIRED
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4015 Travis Drive, Suite 212,
Nashville, Tennessee 37211
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Email: info@cbimmigrationlaw.com
Phone: 615.899.2866
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