EAD stands for "Employment Authorization Document." It is a official document issued by the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) that grants temporary work authorization to non-U.S. citizens in the United States. The EAD serves as proof that an individual is authorized to work legally in the country.
The EAD is typically issued to individuals who are not U.S. citizens or permanent residents, but who are eligible to work in the United States based on their immigration status. This includes foreign students on certain visas, dependents of certain visa holders, refugees, asylees, and individuals applying for certain types of immigration benefits.
To obtain an EAD, an individual must file an application with the USCIS, providing the necessary supporting documents and paying the required fees. The application process may vary depending on the individual's immigration status and eligibility category. Once approved, the EAD is typically valid for a specific period of time, usually one to two years, and can be renewed if the individual remains eligible.
Having an EAD is crucial for individuals who wish to work lawfully in the United States, as it is often required by employers as part of the hiring process. It provides legal protection to the individual, ensuring that they are not engaged in unauthorized employment, and allows them to receive the benefits and protections afforded to U.S. workers.
