Stop Waiting On Your EAD/AP Combo Card [Use This Proven Method]

How To Fast Track Your EAD/AP Combo Card

Are you still waiting on your EAD/AP combo card? If you have a pending I-485 for adjustment of status, we know how frustrating it can be to also have to wait for travel and work authorization. You need to work and travel like yesterday, but the USCIS is giving you the cold shoulder. You've followed the "tried and true" advice of your lawyer or other experts, but none of it has helped.

If you've waited 6 months or more for your EAD/AP combo card, we have some good news.

Pro Se Pro specializes in speeding up processing times for USCIS applications. We've helped over 1600 families get their work authorization in less than 60 days (our average is closer to 43). We can do this because we know exactly what to send to the USCIS to make you a priority. (HINT:  It's not a phone call to the USCIS or letter to your Congressman)

We've partnered with one of the top immigration attorneys in the United States to provide a service that gets results, both fast and cost effective. Everything we provide is based on proven strategies that work time and time again.

Ready to take control and get results?

If you have a pending I-485 and EAD/AP combo card, stop waiting on the USCIS to get around to your application. Like so many others, you can use our I-485 EAD/AP Combo Card Mandamus Service to get the USCIS to take action and get your combo card faster.

Looking for more general information about the I-485 and EAD/AP combo card?  We've got you covered. Read on to learn about the EAD/AP combo card and what it can do for you.

What Is An EAD/AP Combo Card?

The EAD/AP combo card is a useful document for certain immigrants in the United States. It combines two important functions into one card. This card allows eligible people to work and travel outside the U.S. without abandoning their green card application.

The combo card is also known as an Employment Authorization Document with Advance Parole. It's mainly for those who have a pending Form I-485 application to adjust their status to permanent resident. The card looks like a regular work permit but includes text that says it can be used for travel.

People with this card can renew it up to 180 days before it expires. This helps them keep working and traveling while waiting for their green card decision. The combo card simplifies things by putting two permissions on one document.

Key Takeaways

• The EAD/AP combo card allows work and travel for certain immigrants.
• It's mainly for people with pending green card applications.
• The card can be renewed before it expires to maintain work and travel rights.

Understanding the EAD/AP Combo Card

The EAD/AP combo card is a vital document for certain non-citizens in the United States. It combines work authorization and travel permissions into a single card.

Definition and Purpose

The EAD/AP combo card is an official document issued by U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). It serves two main purposes:

1. Employment Authorization Document (EAD)
2. Advance Parole (AP) for travel

This card allows non-citizens to work legally in the U.S. and travel internationally without abandoning their pending immigration applications. It's often given to people who have applied for a green card.

The combo card looks like a regular work permit but has a special note at the bottom. It says "Serves as I-512 Advance Parole," which lets the holder travel in and out of the U.S.

Legislation Background

The EAD/AP combo card was created to simplify the immigration process. It combined two separate documents into one, making life easier for applicants and reducing paperwork for USCIS.

The card is typically issued to people with a pending Form I-485, which is an application to adjust status to permanent resident. This approach streamlined the process for many immigrants seeking to work and travel while waiting for their green card.

Recently, USCIS has started to change this practice. They're now sending separate EAD and AP documents to some applicants. This change aims to speed up EAD processing times.

Eligibility Criteria

Getting an EAD/AP combo card requires meeting specific conditions. The criteria vary based on your immigration status and situation. Let's look at who can apply and what they need to qualify.

Qualifying Categories

Certain non-citizens can apply for an EAD/AP combo card. These include people with pending green card applications, refugees, and asylees. Some students and temporary workers may also be eligible.

To qualify, you must have a valid reason to work and travel. You'll need to prove your status and explain why you need the card. USCIS reviews each case carefully.

Not everyone who can get an EAD can also get AP. The combo card is only for those who need both.

Adjustment of Status Applicants

People with a pending Form I-485 can often get a combo card. This form is for adjusting status to become a permanent resident.

To be eligible, you must:

• Have a properly filed I-485
• Pay the correct fees
• Be in a valid immigration status
• Not have any disqualifying factors

The combo card lets you work and travel while waiting for your green card. It's valid for up to two years and can be renewed.

Refugees and Asylees

Refugees and asylees have special rules for EAD/AP combo cards. They can often get these cards more easily than other groups.

Refugees can apply right after arrival in the U.S. Asylees can apply once they're granted asylum. Both groups don't need to pay the usual fees.

The combo card helps refugees and asylees integrate into the U.S. They can work legally and travel if needed. The card is usually valid for two years for these groups.

Application Process

Getting an EAD AP combo card involves a specific process. Applicants need to gather documents, fill out forms, pay fees, and wait for processing. Here's what you need to know about each step.

Required Documentation

To apply for an EAD AP combo card, you must provide proof of identity and eligibility. This includes:

• A copy of your passport or other travel document
• Two passport-style photos
• Copy of your current or expired EAD (if applicable)
• Proof of pending Form I-485 (Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status)

You may also need to submit extra documents based on your specific situation. It's important to check the USCIS website for the most up-to-date list of required items.

Form I-765 and Form I-131

The EAD AP combo card requires filling out two forms:

1. Form I-765 (Application for Employment Authorization)
2. Form I-131 (Application for Travel Document)

These forms ask for personal information, immigration status details, and the reason for your application. Fill them out carefully and completely. Make sure to sign and date both forms.

You can download these forms from the USCIS website. Read the instructions carefully before filling them out. If you make mistakes, it could delay your application or lead to rejection.

Filing Fees and Waivers

As of August 2024, the filing fees for the EAD AP combo card are:

• Form I-765: $410
• Form I-131: $575

The total cost is $985. You must pay these fees when you submit your application. USCIS accepts payment by check, money order, or credit card.

In some cases, you might be eligible for a fee waiver. To request a waiver, fill out Form I-912 (Request for Fee Waiver). You'll need to prove that you can't afford the fees due to financial hardship.

Processing Timescales

The processing time for an EAD AP combo card can vary. It usually takes about 3 to 5 months, but it can be longer in some cases. You can check current processing times on the USCIS website.

If you need your card urgently, you can request expedited processing. USCIS may speed up your application if you have a valid reason, such as:

• Severe financial loss
• Emergency situation
• Humanitarian reasons

To request expedited processing, contact USCIS directly. Be ready to provide proof of your urgent need.

Benefits of the Combo Card

The combo card offers significant advantages for immigrants in the United States. It combines work and travel permissions into one document, simplifying life for green card applicants.

Employment Authorization

The combo card allows holders to work legally in the United States. This is crucial for those waiting for their green card application to be processed.

The card serves as proof of employment eligibility for employers. It eliminates the need for separate work permits, making job searches easier.

Holders can switch jobs or work in multiple positions without additional paperwork. This flexibility is valuable in today's dynamic job market.

Travel Authorization

The combo card includes Advance Parole, which permits international travel. This feature is essential for those who need to leave and re-enter the U.S. while their green card application is pending.

Cardholders can visit family, attend business meetings, or go on vacation abroad. They can return to the U.S. without abandoning their green card application.

The travel authorization saves time and money by avoiding separate application processes for travel documents.

Renewal and Validity

Combo cards are typically valid for one to two years. The exact duration depends on the holder's immigration status and type of application.

Renewal processes are streamlined compared to applying for separate work and travel documents. This saves time and reduces paperwork for both applicants and immigration officials.

It's important to apply for renewal well before the expiration date. This ensures continuous work authorization and travel privileges.

Maintaining Status

Keeping your EAD/AP combo card valid requires strict adherence to rules and timely action. Proper compliance and renewal are key to avoiding issues with your immigration status.

Compliance and Reporting Requirements

EAD/AP combo card holders must follow specific rules. They need to tell USCIS about any address changes within 10 days. This can be done online or by mail using Form AR-11.

Work only for approved employers listed on your EAD. If you change jobs, you may need to file a new application.

Keep track of your card's expiry date. Start the renewal process well before it expires.

When traveling, always carry your valid combo card. Re-enter the U.S. before the Advance Parole part expires.

Renewal and Expiration Consequences

Renew your EAD/AP combo card at least 120 days before it expires. Late renewals can lead to gaps in work permission and travel rights.

If your card expires:

• You can't work legally in the U.S.
• Traveling abroad may be risky
• Your pending green card application could be affected

To renew, submit Form I-765 for the EAD part and Form I-131 for Advance Parole. Include:

• Copies of your current card
• Passport photos
• Proof of pending green card application

If denied, you might need to leave the U.S. or find another way to stay legally. Always consult with an immigration lawyer for your specific case.

Possible Issues and Resolutions

EAD/AP combo cards can face several challenges. Problems may arise with lost or stolen cards, incorrect information, or denials. Quick action and proper steps can help resolve these issues.

Lost or Stolen Cards

If your EAD/AP combo card is lost or stolen, report it to USCIS right away. Call the USCIS Contact Center at 1-800-375-5283 to notify them.

File Form I-765 to request a replacement card. Include proof of your identity and evidence of your pending green card application.

While waiting for the new card, you may need a temporary proof of work authorization. Ask your employer about I-9 reverification options.

For travel, obtain an emergency advance parole document from USCIS if you must leave the U.S. urgently.

Incorrect Information on Card

Check your EAD/AP combo card carefully when you receive it. Look for errors in name, date of birth, or expiration date.

If you find mistakes, file Form I-90 to request a corrected card. Provide clear evidence of the error and the correct information.

Keep the incorrect card until you receive the new one. It may still be valid for work and travel purposes.

Contact USCIS if the error affects your ability to work or travel. They may issue temporary documents while processing your correction request.

Denials and Appeals

If USCIS denies your EAD/AP combo card application, they will send a denial notice explaining the reasons. Review this notice carefully to understand the grounds for denial.

You can file an appeal using Form I-290B within 30 days of the denial date. Include new evidence or arguments to address the reasons for denial.

Consider consulting an immigration attorney to strengthen your appeal. They can help identify weaknesses in your original application and suggest improvements.

If time is critical, you may file a new EAD/AP application instead of appealing. This can be faster if you can quickly resolve the issues that led to the denial.

Employer Considerations

Employers must understand their responsibilities when hiring workers with EAD/AP combo cards. This includes proper verification and avoiding discrimination.

Verification of Work Authorization

Employers need to check the EAD/AP combo card carefully when verifying work authorization. The card looks like a regular EAD but has extra text about advance parole.

When completing Form I-9, employers should:

• Accept the combo card as List A document
• Check the card's expiration date
• Not ask for additional proof of work authorization

Employers must reverify work authorization before the card expires. They should remind employees to renew their cards early to avoid gaps in employment.

Anti-Discrimination Provisions

Employers must follow anti-discrimination rules when dealing with EAD/AP cardholders. They cannot treat these workers differently based on their immigration status.

Key points for employers:

• Don't ask for specific documents during I-9 process
• Accept any valid documents the employee chooses to present
• Avoid "citizen-only" hiring policies unless required by law
• Treat all workers equally regardless of national origin

If employers have doubts, they should consult an immigration lawyer. Violating anti-discrimination rules can lead to fines and legal issues.

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