Employment Authorization Document (EAD)

Employers are supposed to ensure that all of their employees, regardless of citizenship or national origin, are allowed to work in the United States. Workers should complete the Application for Employment Authorization or EAD form prior to seeking work in the United States.

This form is offered to the employer as proof that a worker is allowed to work in the United States for a specific time period while they have a specific immigration status. It may also be given if another EAD has expired or has been lost. For example, if the worker's EAD has expired they may file for a new EAD form by submitting a Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization. EAD forms may also be replaced if they have been destroyed, lost or stolen. Workers must file Form I-765 to replace an EAD.