What is an Employment Authorization Number (EAN)?
An Employment Authorization Number (EAN), often referred to as an Employment Authorization Document (EAD), is a document issued by the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) that allows foreign nationals to legally work in the United States. This number is a unique identifier assigned to each individual who has been granted permission to work in the country. The EAN is crucial for foreign workers, students, and other authorized individuals to prove their eligibility to work in the U.S. and to comply with employment verification requirements. In this article, we will delve into the details of the EAN, its importance, and the process of obtaining it.
Importance of the Employment Authorization Number
The EAN plays a vital role in the lives of foreign nationals in the United States. Here are some key reasons why it is important:
1. Legal Work Authorization: The EAN serves as proof that an individual has been legally authorized to work in the U.S. Employers are required to verify the employment eligibility of their employees by checking their immigration status, and the EAN is one of the documents that can be used to demonstrate this eligibility.
2. Compliance with Employment Verification Requirements: The U.S. government mandates that employers must verify the identity and employment authorization of their employees. The EAN is one of the documents that employers can use to meet these requirements.
3. Travel and Re-entry: Foreign nationals with an EAN may travel outside the United States and return to the country without losing their work authorization. The EAN is often required when applying for a passport or visa and can be used to prove that the individual has the right to return to the U.S. to work.
4. Proof of Identity: The EAN can also serve as a form of identification for foreign nationals in the United States. It contains the individual’s name, photograph, and the unique number that can be used to verify their identity.
Process of Obtaining an Employment Authorization Number
Foreign nationals who are eligible for an EAN must apply for it through the USCIS. The process typically involves the following steps:
1. Determine Eligibility: Before applying for an EAN, individuals must ensure that they meet the eligibility requirements. These requirements may vary depending on the individual’s immigration status, such as being a student, a temporary worker, or a refugee.
2. Complete Form I-765: The USCIS requires applicants to complete Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization. This form includes information about the applicant’s background, eligibility, and reason for applying for an EAN.
3. Pay the Application Fee: There is a filing fee associated with applying for an EAN. The fee amount may vary depending on the applicant’s eligibility and the purpose of the application.
4. Submit Required Documents: In addition to the completed form and fee, applicants must submit supporting documents that prove their eligibility for an EAN. These documents may include a passport, visa, or other immigration-related documents.
5. Wait for Processing: Once the application and required documents are submitted, the USCIS will process the application. This process can take several months, and applicants may be required to provide biometric information during this time.
6. Receive the Employment Authorization Document: If the application is approved, the USCIS will issue an EAD, which includes the EAN. The EAD is valid for a specific period and may require renewal at the end of its validity.
In conclusion, the Employment Authorization Number (EAN) is a crucial document for foreign nationals in the United States. It serves as proof of legal work authorization, helps employers comply with employment verification requirements, and provides a unique identifier for individuals. Understanding the process of obtaining an EAN is essential for those seeking to work in the U.S. and comply with immigration regulations.
