Definition:
An employment authorization document (EAD) is a USCIS document proving the holder is authorized to work in the United States.
Those who are in the following categories are eligible for an employment authorization document:
- Asylees/Refugees and their spouses or children
- Certain nationality categories
- Foreign students
- Eligible dependents of employees of diplomatic missions, International Organization or NATO
- Employment-based nonimmigrants
- Family-based nonimmigrants
- Adjustment of status categories
- Certain other categories
A full listing of eligible categories is available from the current I-765 instructions.
Lawful permanent residents, conditional residents, or nonimmigrants authorized to work with a specific employer under 8 CFR 274a.12(b) do NOT need an employment authorization document.
Find out how you can get an employment authorization document from USCIS.
Also Known As: An EAD card is sometimes referred to as a work permit or form I-766.