Work Authorization Document (EAD): Essential Information When Applying for a Work Permit

Applying for an Employment Authorization Document (EAD) is the first and crucial step if you want to start working legally in the U.S. This is especially important if you are a dependent of an L-1 visa holder (L-2 visa); the work permit will enable you to provide financial support for your spouse.  

What is an Employment Authorization Document (EAD)? 

An Employment Authorization Document (EAD) is a legal document issued by the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) to foreign nationals who are temporarily residing in the United States or are applying for residency. The EAD allows individuals to work legally in the country while their green card or Form I-485 application is being processed. It serves as proof of the holder's eligibility to work and is crucial for those awaiting permanent resident status. 

Features of the EAD Card 

 The EAD card is made of plastic and is the same size as a credit card, making it easy for workers to carry with them. The card contains essential information such as a photo, name, date of birth, gender, country of birth, alien registration number, card number, conditions of use, and validity date.

Application Process for Employment Authorization Document (EAD) 

Eligibility to Apply for EAD 

For L-2 visa holders, you need to complete Form I-765 (Application for Employment Authorization), pay the I-765 filing fee of $520 (if filing by mail) or $470 (if filing online), and pay a biometric services fee of $85. Additionally, you must provide certain personal documents such as flight tickets, passport, and a recent photo taken within the last 30 days from the date of application submission. 

Application Submission Process 

The application package using Form I-765 will be submitted to USCIS. After reviewing your application, USCIS will send a notification instructing you to visit the nearest USCIS Application Support Center (ASC) to complete the biometric process. This includes collecting your fingerprints, taking your photo, and electronically signing the application form.

Processing Time and Application Review 

Processing Time 

The USCIS review process for issuing the Employment Authorization Document (EAD) can take from 3 months to a maximum of 240 days (8 months) from the date of application submission. Therefore, we recommend that you initiate this process as soon as you arrive in the U.S.

Advice When Applying for EAD 

You should plan to renew your Employment Authorization Document (EAD) 3-4 months before the expiration date, as the processing time for renewal will be similar to that of the initial application. 

Using Your Work Permit 

Obtaining a Social Security Number 

If you do not have a Social Security number, you can bring your EAD card to the Social Security Administration office to obtain one.

Validity and Renewal of EAD 

The validity of the EAD is typically one year and can be renewed as long as you hold a valid L-2 visa. When the L-1 visa holder changes status to an H-1B visa, the L-2 dependent will transition to an H-4 visa and will need to apply for a new EAD. 

Conclusion 

The Employment Authorization Document (EAD) is an important document that allows you to work legally in the U.S. It is essential to apply for the EAD early to avoid prolonged processing times.  

If you need more information or assistance, please feel free to contact us.