The term I-776 refers specifically to the card number found on an Employment Authorization Card (EAC), which is more widely known as an Employment Authorization Document (EAD). This number serves as a unique identifier for the physical document that permits certain non-citizens to work legally in the United States.
Understanding the Employment Authorization Card (EAC/EAD)
An Employment Authorization Card, or EAD, is a crucial document issued by U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) to individuals who are authorized to work in the U.S. for a specific period. It is often referred to as a "work permit." The EAD is a physical card that typically includes:
- The holder's photo
- Name and date of birth
- Immigration category
- Card number (the "I-776" identifier)
- Expiration date
This document is essential for proving eligibility to work and is used during the Form I-9, Employment Eligibility Verification process.
I-776: The Card Number Explained
While not a form number itself, "I-776" functions as an identifier for the distinct card number printed on an Employment Authorization Card. This card number is a unique alphanumeric sequence, usually 9 digits long, located on the front of the EAD.
Its primary purpose is to:
- Identify the specific EAD: Each card has a unique number.
- Verify employment eligibility: Employers check this number along with other document details during the I-9 process.
- Track immigration records: USCIS and other agencies use this number for record-keeping and status verification.
Differentiating from Form I-765: A Common Point of Confusion
It is very common for "I-776" to be a misspelling or misunderstanding of Form I-765, which is the actual Application for Employment Authorization. While I-776 refers to a number on the card, Form I-765 is the application form submitted to USCIS to request an EAD.
Here's a comparison to clarify the distinction:
| Feature | I-776 (Card Number Identifier) | Form I-765 (Application Form) |
|---|---|---|
| Nature | Identifier for the card number on an EAD | The official application form |
| Document Type | A specific alphanumeric sequence on the physical card | A document submitted to USCIS |
| Purpose | Verifies the individual EAD document and its holder | Requests permission to obtain an EAD |
| Issuance | Printed on the physical Employment Authorization Card | Filed by an eligible individual with USCIS |
What is Form I-765?
Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization, is the standard application used by various non-citizens in the United States to request permission to work. Eligibility for an EAD is granted based on specific immigration categories, which can include:
- Asylum applicants and asylees
- Refugees
- Students (F-1 visa holders with specific employment authorization types)
- Individuals granted Temporary Protected Status (TPS)
- Spouses of certain visa holders (e.g., L-2, H-4)
- Applicants for adjustment of status (green card applicants)
- DACA (Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals) recipients
Upon approval of Form I-765, USCIS issues the applicant an Employment Authorization Document (EAD), which then bears the unique card number identified as "I-776."
Importance of Accurate Document Identification
Understanding the correct terminology and function of immigration documents is critical for both individuals seeking employment authorization and employers verifying work eligibility. Misinterpreting document identifiers can lead to delays, confusion, or compliance issues.
- For Individuals: Knowing that "I-776" refers to the card number allows you to quickly locate it on your EAD when requested for employment verification or immigration processes.
- For Employers: When an employer asks for an "I-776" in the context of employment eligibility, they are seeking the unique card number from the employee's Employment Authorization Document. This is vital for accurately completing Form I-9, Employment Eligibility Verification.
Key Takeaways on Employment Authorization
- The term "I-776" is used to identify the unique card number on an Employment Authorization Card (EAD).
- An EAD is a physical document that grants non-citizens permission to work in the U.S.
- Form I-765 is the application submitted to USCIS to request an EAD.
- Accurate identification of these documents and their components is crucial for legal employment and immigration compliance.
For more detailed information on employment authorization, you can visit the official USCIS Employment Authorization Document page.
