The source document for Employment Authorization Document (EAD) applications is Form I-765, also known as the Application for Employment Authorization. This form must be completed accurately and submitted to the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) along with supporting evidence. Proper filing of Form I-765 is essential for obtaining lawful work authorization in the United States.
Understanding Employment Authorization Documents (EAD)
The Employment Authorization Document (EAD) allows individuals to work legally in the United States. It is issued by the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) to eligible applicants.
The primary source document for EAD applications is the Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization. Your submission must include supporting evidence verifying your eligibility category to ensure processing.
Eligibility Criteria for EAD Applications
The primary source document for Employment Authorization Document (EAD) applications is the Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization. Applicants must submit this form along with supporting evidence to demonstrate their eligibility under specific immigration categories.
Eligibility criteria for EAD applications include asylum seekers, refugees, students seeking optional practical training, and certain temporary protected status holders. Applicants must prove their status through USCIS-approved documentation and meet category-specific requirements. Proper submission ensures timely processing and legal work authorization in the United States.
Essential Source Documents for EAD Submission
The essential source document for Employment Authorization Document (EAD) applications is the Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization. This form must be submitted along with supporting documentation to verify the applicant's identity and eligibility.
- Form I-765 - This is the primary application form required by USCIS to request employment authorization.
- Proof of Identity - Applicants must provide a government-issued photo ID such as a passport, national ID card, or driver's license to confirm their identity.
- Eligibility Evidence - Supporting documents confirming the applicant's immigration status or eligibility category, such as an I-94 Arrival/Departure Record, Form I-797 Approval Notice, or asylum application receipt, are necessary for application approval.
Required Forms for EAD Processing
The source document for Employment Authorization Document (EAD) applications is Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization. This form is essential for individuals seeking work authorization in the United States under various immigration categories.
Supporting documents vary depending on the applicant's eligibility category but must always accompany Form I-765. These include proof of identity, immigration status, and any prior work authorization documents if applicable.
Proof of Identity and Immigration Status
The source document for Employment Authorization Document (EAD) applications must verify proof of identity and immigration status. These documents validate eligibility to work legally in the United States.
- Government-issued photo ID - A valid passport or state-issued ID serves as primary proof of identity.
- Immigration status documents - Forms such as I-94, I-797, or previous EAD confirm your current immigration status.
- Supporting evidence - Documents like visa stamps or admission records provide additional verification of authorized status.
Submitting accurate source documents ensures a smooth EAD application process.
Documents Demonstrating Eligibility Category
| Eligibility Category | Source Document | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Asylum Applicant (C08) | Form I-589 Receipt Notice | Proof of pending asylum application filed with USCIS. |
| Refugee (A01) | Form I-94 or I-730 Approval Notice | Documentation of refugee status granted by USCIS or Department of State. |
| Temporary Protected Status (TPS) Holder (C19) | Form I-797 Approval Notice | Official approval of TPS designation by USCIS. |
| Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) (C33) | Form I-797 Notice of Action | Evidence of approved deferred action status under DACA program. |
| F-1 Student Seeking Optional Practical Training (C3C) | Form I-20 with work endorsement | Certification by Designated School Official authorizing OPT participation. |
| L-2 Spouse of L-1 (C26) | Copy of L-1 Visa Approval Notice | Proof of L-2 status as dependent of L-1 visa holder. |
| DACA (C33) | USCIS DACA Approval Notice | Evidence confirming eligibility under DACA program. |
| Pending Adjustment of Status Applicant (C09) | Receipt Notice for Form I-485 | Proof of pending application to adjust status to lawful permanent resident. |
| Temporary Protected Status (TPS) Applicant (C19) | Receipt Notice for TPS Application | Confirmation of pending TPS application with USCIS. |
Supporting Evidence: Photos and Biometric Information
The primary source document for Employment Authorization Document (EAD) applications is Form I-765. Applicants must provide supporting evidence, including passport-style photos that meet USCIS specifications. Biometric information, such as fingerprints and digital signatures, is also required for identity verification and background checks.
Common Mistakes in EAD Documentation
What is the primary source document required for Employment Authorization Document (EAD) applications? The main source document is a valid, government-issued identity proof such as a passport or national ID card. Providing incorrect or expired documentation often leads to application delays or denials.
Which common mistakes occur with source documents in EAD applications? Applicants frequently submit photocopies instead of original documents or fail to include certified translations for foreign-language papers. These errors can result in requests for additional evidence or rejection of the application.
Tips for Organizing Your EAD Application Packet
The primary source document for Employment Authorization Document (EAD) applications is Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization. Organizing your EAD application packet carefully helps ensure a smoother review process.
- Use a checklist - Confirm all required documents such as Form I-765, supporting identification, and any relevant immigration status proofs are included.
- Arrange documents logically - Place the Form I-765 at the top followed by supporting evidence in a clear, sequential order.
- Label each section - Use tabs or dividers to separate different categories of documents, making it easier for officials to find specific items.
What Is the Source Document for Employment Authorization Document (EAD) Applications? Infographic
