How long does USCIS take to process an EAD renewal?

By author | August 19, 2022 |

How long does USCIS take to process an EAD renewal? Keep in mind that USCIS processes an EAD renewal like a normal EAD application, so the work permit processing time depends on your type of visa and the processing center that it is going through. As of May 2022, EAD processing time can range from anywhere from 2 months to 20 months.

We recommend you start the process four months before the expiration date, which is on your EAD, but not before. For instance, if your EAD is to expire in the next 120 days, you can file your renewal application now.

What happens if I lose my work permit?

You may replace your Employment Authorization Document if your document is lost, stolen, or destroyed. File a new Form I-765 and select the “replacement” option and wait 60-90 days to receive it.

There is a difference between an EAD renewal and replacement, according to USCIS terms. Your case will determine if you need a replacement or renewal. USCIS requires a work permit renewal if you still meet eligibility, but your current EAD is about to expire or has expired.

In addition, you will need to file a new I-765 and pay the filing fee, unless USCIS grants a fee waiver. Two situations may require work permit replacement:

If your EAD is stolen, lost, or destroyed, you will need to file an I-765 and pay the filing fee.

If your EAD contains incorrect information, the steps to take will depend on two things:

If the incorrect information is not due to a USCIS error, follow the same process as the renewal application and pay the filing fee. You must submit the work permit card containing the error.

If the incorrect information is due to a USCIS error, you do not need to file a new form or pay the filing fee. The USCIS will make the appropriate correction on the card at no additional cost to you. You will only need to provide the following to the USCIS:

  • Original work permit card contains the error;
  • Explanation of the error on the card;
  • Supporting documentation for the correct information;
  • Temporary Automatic EAD Extension 2022;

To help reduce gaps in employment due to the USCIS backlogs, the government enacted a temporary automatic EAD extension for certain visa holders. EAD extensions usually last 180 days, but under the temporary rule, the extension will be for up to 540 days. The temporary rule will expire on October 27, 2023.

Those eligible for the longer automatic extension must correctly file an EAD renewal before their current EAD expires and must fall under one of the following categories:

  • Refugee: (a)(3);
  • Asylee: (a)(5);
  • N-8 or N-9: (a)(7);
  • Citizen of Micronesia, Marshall Islands, or Palau: (a)(8);
  • Withholding of Deportation or Removal Granted: (a)(10);
  • Granted Temporary Protected Status: (a)(12);
  • Spouse of E nonimmigrant with unexpired I-94: (a)(17);
  • Spouse of L-1 nonimmigrant with unexpired I-94: (a)(18);
  • Asylum Application Pending: (c)(8);
  • Pending Adjustment of Status under Section 245 of the Act: (c)(9);
  • Suspension of Deportation Applicants, Cancelation of Removal Applicants, Special Rule Cancellation of Removal Applicants under NACARA: (c)(10);
  • Creation of Record: (c)(16);

How Long Is a Work Permit (EAD) Valid?

A work permit’s validity period will depend on each applicant’s case. This is because the USCIS usually issues an EAD based on the validity of each applicant’s underlying nonimmigrant current status. In most cases, USCIS issues an EAD with a one-year validity period with the option of renewal before its expiration. The number of times permitted for renewal will also depend on each applicant’s status.

However, in some cases, USCIS may issue an EAD with a validity period of up to two years. This type of EAD is available to Green Card adjustment of status (AOS) applicants who are currently unable to adjust their status due to the unavailability of an immigrant visa number.

To be eligible for a work permit with a two-year validity period, applicants must submit their approved I-140 petition. Asylum applicants are another category of people who may get an EAD valid for two years.

Do you need to renew your EAD or another immigration service? Contact Us! Wizard Visa helps you get your application done faster. Ready to start?

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