USCIS EAD Category Codes: A Concise Guide to Understanding Your Employment Authorization Document

The United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) issues Employment Authorization Documents (EADs) that allow foreign nationals to work legally in the United States. Each EAD is designated with a specific category code, which indicates the applicant’s eligibility criteria and authorization grounds. These category codes play a crucial role in determining whether an individual’s employment authorization can be extended, among other factors.

Understanding USCIS EAD category codes is essential for both foreign workers and their employers in navigating the complex immigration system. Some of the common codes that qualify for automatic 180-day EAD extension, if the renewal application is filed before the current EAD’s expiration, include A03, A05, A07, A08, A10, C08, C09, C10, C16, C20, C22, C24, and C31, as well as A12 or C19 source. Familiarizing oneself with these codes can help streamline the employment process and ensure compliance with immigration regulations.

In short, USCIS EAD category codes serve as a vital aspect of the U.S. immigration system, providing information on an individual’s eligibility for employment and the possibility of extending their authorization. Both employees and employers should thoroughly understand these codes to maintain a legally compliant work environment and make informed decisions regarding hiring and renewals.

Overview of USCIS EAD Category Codes

Purpose of EAD Category Codes

The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) assigns Employment Authorization Document (EAD) category codes to different types of temporary and permanent employment authorizations. EAD category codes serve as a classification system to designate specific eligibility categories for non-citizens and lawful permanent residents seeking permission to work in the United States. These codes play a crucial role in streamlining the application and verification processes for both employers and employees.

Different Types of EAD Category Codes

USCIS EAD category codes cover a wide range of eligibility categories, with each code corresponding to a specific type of employment authorization. Some common EAD category code groups include:

• H4 and L2 EADs: These are issued to eligible dependents of H-1B and L-1 visa holders, respectively.
• Automatic 180-day EAD extension: In certain cases, a 180-day extension of employment authorization is granted automatically. This applies to EAD category codes such as A03, A05, A07, A08, A10, C08, C09, C10, C16, C20, C22, C24, and C31, as well as A12 or C19.

It is crucial for both employers and employees to understand the specifics of each EAD category code and the corresponding employment authorization when applying for, extending, or verifying work eligibility. Detailed information on various EAD category codes can be found on USCIS and AM22Tech websites.

Eligibility Categories and Their Codes

The USCIS EAD (Employment Authorization Document) provides a vast range of eligibility categories and specific codes. These codes allow individuals of various backgrounds to work in the United States. The primary categories include U-Series, C-Series, and A-Series. Each category contains different eligibility criteria and conditions for granting an EAD.

U-Series Category Codes

The U-Series category codes pertain to specific classes of individuals. Some examples are:

• U-1: Crime victims who are eligible for U nonimmigrant status,
• U-2: Qualifying family members of U-1 Visa holders, including the spouse and children under 21 years old.

C-Series Category Codes

The C-Series category codes are among the most prevalent and cover a wide variety of situations. Some of the key C-Series codes are:

• C08: Asylum applications that have been pending for 150 days or more
• C09: Individuals with a pending Adjustment of Status application
• C10: Individuals eligible for Temporary Protected Status (TPS)
• C20, C22, C24, C26, C31: For spouses and children of specific types of visa holders, including H1-B, L1, and E visa holders
• C19, A12: For applicants of Automatic 180 EAD extension

A-Series Category Codes

The A-Series category codes include the following:

• A03: Refugee category, individuals who have been granted asylum
• A05: NACARA (Nicaraguan Adjustment and Central American Relief Act) beneficiaries
• A07: DACA (Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals)
• A08: Citizens of Micronesia, Palau, and the Marshall Islands
• A10: Individuals granted withholding of deportation or removal

It’s important to note that when filing Form I-765, the Application for Employment Authorization, applicants must choose the correct eligibility category code that corresponds to their situation. This ensures the correct processing of their application for an EAD. Additionally, certain category codes are eligible for automatic extensions, which can be helpful to individuals who may require extra processing time for their cases.

EAD Application Process

Form I-765

To apply for an Employment Authorization Document (EAD), you need to file Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization. This form is crucial to determine your eligibility based on several EAD category codes. Each EAD category code represents a specific eligibility situation, such as your immigration status or any possible restrictions to your work authorization.

Complete Form I-765 accurately and follow the instructions provided by USCIS, which detail how to submit your application. The form will ask for your personal information, such as your name, address, date of birth, and Social Security number (if applicable). Also, enter your EAD category code and provide any relevant details related to that particular category.

Required Supporting Documents

Along with Form I-765, you must submit a set of supporting documents to confirm your eligibility for employment authorization. These documents typically include:

• A copy of your Form I-94, Arrival/Departure Record, which serves as proof of your admission into the United States.
• Copies of your immigration status documents, such as your visa, approval notice, or any other relevant document.
• Two identical color passport-style photographs taken within 30 days of filing your application.
• A filing fee, if required for your EAD category.
• Any other documents requested by USCIS to determine your eligibility.

Ensure that you submit legible and accurate copies of your supporting documents to avoid any processing delays.

Renewal and Extension Process

If your EAD expires or is nearing its expiration date, you can apply for a renewal by submitting a new Form I-765 along with the required supporting documents. The process for obtaining a renewed EAD is similar to the initial application process.

You can apply for a renewal or extension up to 180 days before your current EAD expires. After filing your application, USCIS will issue you a Form I-766, Employment Authorization Document, which serves as evidence that you are authorized to work in the United States under your EAD category.

Keep track of your application’s status through the USCIS website and make sure you apply for renewal or extension in a timely manner to avoid any lapses in your employment authorization.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the C09 EAD category?

The C09 EAD category refers to the employment authorization granted to individuals with a pending application for adjustment of status to become a lawful permanent resident. This category allows applicants to work in the United States while their application is being processed, providing them with an Employment Authorization Document (EAD) for the duration of their adjustment of status case.

Which code represents H4 EAD?

The H4 EAD category is represented by the code A17. This category is designated for the H-4 visa holders, who are eligible for work authorization. H-4 visa holders are the spouses and dependent children of H-1B visa holders.

Can you explain A19 EAD category?

The A19 EAD category is for employment authorization given to the T-1 nonimmigrant status holders, also known as Victims of Severe Forms of Trafficking in Persons. This category allows T-1 visa holders to work in the United States and supports them in their efforts to recover from their exploitation.

What is the EAD category C08?

The C08 EAD category is assigned to individuals who have been granted asylum or who have a pending asylum application in the United States. Asylum seekers and asylees are eligible for an Employment Authorization Document as long as their application or status is still active.

How many EAD categories exist?

There are multiple EAD categories that exist, corresponding to various immigration statuses and situations. Each EAD category represents a specific group of people who are eligible for work authorization in the United States. The USCIS EAD category codes provide complete details on the different categories.

Do EAD categories have automatic extensions?

Some EAD categories do offer automatic 180-day extensions, ensuring continuous work authorization during the renewal process. The categories which are eligible for this extension include A03, A05, A07, A08, A10, C08, C09, C10, C16, C20, C22, C24, C31, A12, and C19. You can find more information on the 180-day automatic extension offered by these categories.

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