Employment Authorization Document (EAD)

Role and Importance of EAD

The EAD plays a crucial role in the U.S. immigration system because it allows individuals who are not U.S. citizens or permanent residents to work legally. It is issued to foreign nationals who are authorized to work based on their immigration status.

This document is essential for asylum seekers, participants in specific visa programs, spouses of U.S. citizens waiting for a green card decision, and international students with work authorization through programs like OPT (Optional Practical Training). With an EAD, employers can legally hire foreign nationals without violating immigration laws.

Application Procedure

To obtain an EAD, an individual must file Form I-765 (Application for Employment Authorization) with USCIS. The application must include proof of immigration status and, in some cases, an administrative fee. If approved, USCIS issues the EAD card for a limited period — typically one or two years, depending on the applicant’s eligibility category.

Once the EAD expires, the holder must apply for renewal to maintain continuous work authorization. Without a valid EAD, a foreign national loses the legal right to work in the United States.

Practical Importance and Limitations

The EAD is not an identity document like a passport or green card — its sole purpose is to confirm the right to work. It does not grant permanent residency or U.S. citizenship. However, it is often an important step toward obtaining a green card, as many applicants rely on an EAD while waiting for their permanent residency application to be processed.

Employers in the United States are legally required to verify an employee’s work authorization, making the EAD an essential document for many noncitizens. Without it, legal employment is not possible.

Summary

The Employment Authorization Document (EAD) is one of the most important documents in the U.S. immigration system, granting foreign nationals the legal right to work. It confirms lawful employment eligibility, but its validity depends on the individual’s immigration status.

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