1. How long does it take to receive a decision on my EAD renewal application?

The current processing time for an EAD renewal application is approximately 4-6 months from the date of receipt. However, processing times may vary depending on the volume of applications received by USCIS and any potential delays or issues with your individual application. It is important to submit your renewal application as early as possible to avoid any gaps in employment authorization. You can check the current processing times for EAD renewal applications on the USCIS website.

2. Can I work while my EAD is being renewed?

Yes, you can continue to work while your EAD is being renewed. As long as you have filed your renewal application on time and your current EAD has not yet expired, you are authorized to continue working until a decision is made on your new EAD.

3. How long does it take to renew an EAD?
The processing time for an EAD renewal can vary depending on the location of your application and any potential delays in processing. On average, USCIS takes about 2-5 months to process and issue a new EAD.

4. Can I expedite my EAD renewal?
Yes, you may request to expedite your EAD renewal if you can demonstrate that you meet specific criteria such as severe financial loss or humanitarian reasons. You must submit evidence supporting your request for expediting along with your application.

5. Can I continue working if my current EAD has expired but my renewal is still pending?
If your current EAD has expired and your renewal application is still pending, you may be eligible for automatic employment authorization for up to 180 days as long as you have filed for renewal before the expiration of your initial EAD.

6. Do I need to include new supporting documents when I renew my EAD?

You do not necessarily need to provide updated documents when renewing your EAD unless there are changes in your eligibility category or personal information. Updated passport photos are also required if there have been significant changes in appearance since the last submission (such as a significant change in weight or facial hair). It is recommended that you review the instructions for Form I-765 carefully before submitting your application.

7. What if my personal circumstances have changed since I received my initial EAD?

If there have been any significant changes in the circumstances of your initial application (such as a change in immigration status), you must inform USCIS by filing Form I-765 and provide supporting documentation proving the change in circumstances. Failure to do so may result in a denial of your EAD renewal.

3. What is the payment method for the EAD renewal application fee?

The payment method for the EAD renewal application fee varies depending on the applicant’s eligibility category. For most categories, the fee can be paid by personal check, cashier’s check, or money order made payable to the U.S. Department of Homeland Security. Some categories may also allow for payment by credit card or debit card if submitting the application online. Applicants should refer to the specific instructions for their category to determine the accepted methods of payment.

4. What documents do I need to submit with my EAD renewal application?

The documents you need to submit with your EAD renewal application may vary depending on your eligibility category and individual circumstances. However, generally the following documents are required:

1. Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization

2. The appropriate filing fee (unless you are eligible for a fee waiver)

3. A copy of your previous employment authorization document (front and back) if renewing based on the same category

4. Two passport-style photos taken within 30 days of the application submission date

5. A photocopy of government-issued identification such as a passport, birth certificate, or valid driver’s license

6. A copy of your current immigration status documents such as an I-94 arrival/departure record, approval notice from USCIS, or valid visa stamp in passport

7. Supporting documentation for your eligibility category (e.g. Form I-20 for F1 students, Form I-797 for temporary workers)

8. Any additional documents specified by USCIS for your specific eligibility category (e.g. marriage certificate for dependents applying under the spouse’s immigration case)

9.Completion of signature section on Form I-765 and any other relevant forms (such as G-28 if represented by an attorney)

10.A cover letter explaining the purpose of the application and any additional information or supporting documentation.

It is important to carefully review the instructions provided by USCIS for your specific eligibility category to ensure you include all necessary documents with your renewal application.

5. Can I expedite the processing of my EAD renewal application?

Yes, you may be able to expedite the processing of your EAD renewal application by requesting an expedited review from U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). However, this option is only available in certain circumstances, such as if you have an urgent job offer or humanitarian reasons for needing your EAD sooner. You will need to provide evidence to support your request for expedited processing.

6. Will my current EAD be valid while my renewal application is pending?

If your current EAD has expired and you have timely filed for renewal, your work authorization will be automatically extended for up to 180 days from the date of expiration. This is known as an automatic extension. You may continue working with your current EAD during this time period if you meet all the eligibility requirements.

7. Can I apply for a different category when I renew my EAD?
It depends on your current legal status and eligibility for the different category. For example, if you currently have an EAD based on DACA (Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals) and are now eligible for employment-based immigration status, you can request the new category when filing for renewal.

8. What happens if my EAD renewal application is denied?
If your application is denied, you will receive a notice explaining the reason for the denial. If you do not agree with the decision, you may file an appeal or motion to reopen or reconsider with USCIS within certain time frames.

9. What happens if I lose my job while waiting for my EAD renewal?
If your EAD expires and you have not yet received a decision on your renewal application, you may experience a temporary interruption in employment until you receive your new EAD approval. However, as long as you timely filed your renewal application before your current EAD expired, it should be automatically extended for up to 180 days while USCIS processes your case.

10. Can I travel outside of the United States while my EAD renewal is pending?
No, once your original EAD expires, any pending applications associated with that same EAD become null and void. You will need to wait until USCIS approves your renewed EAD in order to travel outside of the United States.

7. Can I travel outside of the US while my EAD is being renewed?

Yes, you can travel outside of the US while your Employment Authorization Document (EAD) is being renewed. However, you must ensure that your EAD renewal application has been filed and received by USCIS before departing. Additionally, you should bring evidence of your pending EAD renewal application with you when traveling, such as a receipt notice from USCIS. It is also important to note that if your EAD expired while you were outside of the US, you may experience difficulties re-entering the country without a valid EAD.

8. Will I receive a new EAD card or just an approval notice for the renewal?

Generally, you will receive both a new EAD card and an approval notice for your renewal. However, there may be instances where you only receive an approval notice and are instructed to download or print your new EAD from the USCIS website. It is important to carefully review any correspondence from USCIS regarding your renewal to ensure you have all necessary documents.

9. Do I need to provide biometrics for my EAD renewal application?

No, biometrics (fingerprints, photo, and signature) are not required for the processing of Employment Authorization Document (EAD) renewal applications. However, USCIS may issue a Request for Evidence (RFE) for biometrics if they need to verify your identity or if there are issues with your previous biometric data. In that case, you will need to schedule an appointment at an Application Support Center (ASC) to provide your biometrics.

10. Can I check the status of my EAD renewal online?

No, there is currently no online system to check the status of your EAD renewal. You can only track the delivery of your EAD card through the tracking number provided by USCIS.

11. What happens if my current EAD expires before I receive a decision on my renewal application?

If your current EAD expires before you receive a decision on your renewal application, you may request an interim EAD. This interim EAD will be valid for 240 days or until a decision is made on your renewal application, whichever comes first. You must file Form I-765 to request an interim EAD and include a copy of the receipt notice for your renewal application as well as a copy of your soon-to-expire EAD.

12. Can I continue working with my old EAD while my renewal application is pending?
Yes, you can continue working with your old EAD while your renewal application is pending as long as you filed the renewal application before the expiration of your current EAD. However, if your current EAD expires before you receive a decision on your renewal application, you must stop working until you receive an approved EAD.

13. What documents do I need to submit with my DACA renewal application?
You will need to submit Form I-821D, Form I-765, and Form I-765 worksheet along with supporting documentation such as copies of previous DACA approvals, evidence of any criminal history or removal proceedings, and evidence of financial need (if applying for a fee waiver).

14. How much does it cost to renew DACA?
The total filing fee for renewing DACA is $495. This includes the $410 filing fee for Form I-765 and the $85 biometric services fee.

15. Is there any way to reduce or waive the filing fee for DACA renewal?
You may be eligible for a fee waiver if you can demonstrate that you are unable to pay the filing fees due to financial hardship. To apply for a fee waiver, you must file Form I-912 along with your other DACA renewal forms and provide supporting documentation such as tax returns or proof of public benefits received.

16. Can I travel outside of the United States while my DACA renewal application is pending?
No, if you leave the United States while your DACA renewal application is pending, your application may be considered abandoned. In certain emergency situations, you may be able to request advance parole to travel outside of the United States but it is highly recommended that you consult with an immigration attorney before doing so.

17. What happens if my DACA renewal application is denied?
If your DACA renewal application is denied, you will receive a written notice explaining the reason for denial and any options you have for appealing the decision. It is important to consult with an immigration attorney if your application is denied in order to discuss next steps.

18. Can I still renew my DACA if I have left school?
Yes, as long as the rest of the eligibility criteria are met, leaving school or not currently being enrolled in school does not disqualify you from renewing your DACA status. However, losing your eligibility for DACA (such as through a criminal conviction) can affect your ability to renew.

19. Will renewing my DACA affect my chances of obtaining permanent resident status later on?
Renewing your DACA should not negatively affect any future applications for permanent resident status or citizenship. However, it is always recommended to consult with an immigration attorney before making any decisions regarding changes in your immigration status.

20. Can I apply for a Green Card with my renewed DACA status?
No, having renewed DACA status does not qualify you for a Green Card (permanent residence). You must meet specific eligibility requirements and go through a separate application process in order to obtain a Green Card.

12. How do I know if USCIS has received and accepted my EAD renewal application?

To know if USCIS has received and accepted your EAD renewal application, you can check the status of your case on the USCIS website using your receipt number. You should receive a receipt notice in the mail within 2-3 weeks after filing your application, which will also provide information on how to track your case. Additionally, you may contact USCIS directly at 1-800-375-5283 to inquire about the status of your application.

13. Is there a difference in processing times for different categories of EAD renewals (e.g., employment-based vs family-based)?

USCIS does not differentiate processing times for EAD renewals based on different categories. The processing time for an EAD renewal depends on factors such as the USCIS workload, the completeness of the application, and any requests for additional evidence.

14. Can I track the delivery of my new/renewed EAD card once it has been approved and issued by USCIS?

Yes, you can track the delivery of your EAD card through the USCIS website or by contacting the USCIS Contact Center. Once your EAD card has been issued, you will receive a tracking number that allows you to monitor its delivery status. You can also sign up for automatic updates on your case status through the USCIS Online Account Access portal.

15.Can someone else check the status of my USCIS case on my behalf, such as an attorney or family member?

Yes, you can authorize someone else to check the status of your USCIS case on your behalf. You can do this by filling out and signing a G-28 form, which authorizes an attorney or other representative to act on your behalf. If you want a family member or friend to check the status for you, you can also provide them with a completed and signed G-28 form granting them permission to access your case information. They will need to submit this form with any requests for information about your case.

16.What are some common reasons for a delay in processing an EAD renewal application?

1. Missing or incomplete information: If any required information or supporting documentation is missing or incomplete, it can cause delays in processing the EAD renewal application.

2. Errors on the application: Any errors made on the application, such as incorrect dates or personal information, can also result in delays as USCIS may need to request additional information or clarification.

3. Inconsistent or conflicting information: If the information provided on the EAD renewal application does not match other records in USCIS’s system, it may take longer for them to verify the applicant’s identity and eligibility.

4. Increased demand: During times of high demand, USCIS may experience a backlog of EAD renewal applications which can result in processing delays.

5. Changes in immigration policies: Changes in immigration policies or procedures can also cause processing delays as USCIS adjusts their processes and procedures accordingly.

6. Incomplete filing fees: If the correct fees are not included with the EAD renewal application, it will be rejected and returned to the applicant, causing a delay in processing.

7. Request for evidence (RFE): If USCIS needs more information or evidence to make a decision on an EAD renewal application, they will issue an RFE which can cause significant delays if not responded to promptly and accurately.

8. Background checks: Some occupations may require additional background checks before an EAD can be issued, which could potentially lead to delays if there are any issues with the checks.

9. Adjudication workload: High volumes of applications coupled with limited resources and staffing can contribute to longer processing times for EAD renewals.

10. Technical issues: Technical issues with electronic filing systems or other internal systems at USCIS can also lead to processing delays.

11. COVID-19 pandemic: The ongoing COVID-19 pandemic has caused disruptions and slowdowns in many government agencies, including USCIS, resulting in delayed processing times for many types of applications including EAD renewals.

12. Holidays and government shutdowns: Delays may also occur during federal holidays or government shutdowns when USCIS offices are closed.

13. Processing errors: In rare cases, processing errors at USCIS can also cause delays in the processing of an EAD renewal application.

14. Delays in receiving biometrics appointments: If biometrics are required for an EAD renewal, any delay in scheduling or conducting the appointment can result in delayed processing times.

15. Failure to meet eligibility requirements: If the applicant fails to meet all of the eligibility requirements for an EAD renewal, it can lead to delays or even a denial of the application.

16. Request for correction: If USCIS identifies any discrepancies or errors on an EAD renewal application, they may request that the applicant correct them before continuing with the processing. This can cause significant delays if not addressed promptly.

17.How can I request an extension of my current work authorization while waiting for a decision on my EAD renewal?

You can request an extension of your current work authorization by submitting Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization, along with all required supporting documents, to U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). In your application, you should explain that you are awaiting a decision on your EAD renewal and provide any evidence or documentation that supports your need for an extension. USCIS will review your request and make a decision based on the information provided. If approved, you will receive a new work authorization card that will be valid until a decision is made on your EAD renewal application.

18.Do I need to submit new supporting documents with every EAD renewal, or only when they have expired (e.g., passport, visa)?

The supporting documents required for an EAD renewal depend on the individual’s situation and the type of EAD being applied for. Generally, if the relevant supporting documents (such as passport or visa) are still valid, there is no need to submit new ones with every renewal. However, if any of the supporting documents have expired or changed since the previous EAD application, it is recommended to submit updated versions along with the renewal application.

19.What should I do if there is an error on my new/renewed EAD card (e.g., wrong name, incorrect dates, misspelling)?

If there is an error on your new or renewed EAD card, you should contact the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) as soon as possible to request a correction. You can do this by submitting a written request through their online portal or by calling the USCIS Contact Center at 1-800-375-5283. You will need to provide evidence of the error and may be required to submit a new application or pay a fee for the correction. It is important to correct any errors on your EAD card as soon as possible, as it may affect your ability to work legally in the United States.

20.How long after my EAD renewal is approved can I expect to receive my new card in the mail?

The timeframe for receiving your new EAD card after renewal approval can vary and is dependent on several factors such as processing times, mailing delays, and the location of the USCIS office that approved your application. On average, it can take anywhere from 2-4 weeks to receive your new card in the mail. If you do not receive it within this timeframe, you can contact USCIS for an update on the status of your card.