How soon after filing I-485 did you get EAD?

By author | August 24, 2022 |

How soon after filing I-485 did you get EAD? The whole Form I-485 process typically takes 8 to 14 months from the time of filing but there are some steps that you should know. The processing time is long, check now the different steps that so often cause a long ​​Form I-485 processing time:

Application is Received

USCIS will send you a confirmation of receipt of the application, called Form I-797C, Notice of Action, the receipt notice typically arrives 2 to 3 weeks after filing.

This document is important because It contains your 10-digit receipt number. You can use this receipt number to check your case status.

If you have not received your Notice of Action within the first month of filing Form I-485, you should make a case inquiry. Besides, if you did not properly file your Form I-485, USCIS will do one of two things:

The USCIS will either send you a Notice of Action to reject your application or they may send a Request for Evidence that requests additional items. Either of these will delay your request.

Biometrics Appointment is Scheduled

Next, you will receive an appointment notice that assigns your biometrics appointment date, time, and location. The appointment notice for your biometrics appointment should arrive approximately 3 to 5 weeks after filing.

Your biometrics appointment is a normal part of the background checks all applicants undergo. USCIS requires applicants to be fingerprinted to conduct a security clearance and criminal background check.

Keep in mind is possible to reschedule a USCIS biometrics appointment if necessary. The location for your biometrics appointment will generally be the USCIS Application Support Center nearest you.

Attending Your Biometrics Appointment

Attend your biometrics appointment. The biometrics appointment takes around 30 minutes just to collect your biometrics information only.

Don’t forget to take and show some form of government-issued photo identification. For example:

  • Passport;
  • Driver’s license;
  • Military photo identification;
  • State-issued photo identification card;

Receiving Your EAD Card

If you also submitted Form I-765 and Form I-131 as a part of your adjustment of the status package, you will be receiving an Employment Authorization Document (EAD). Your EAD card should arrive 12 to 16 weeks after filing.  Make a photocopy of both sides of the card and store it in a safe place.

Your EAD card acts as a work permit.  If you applied for both employment authorization and advance parole travel documents, both documents are usually combined on the same card.

Receiving Your Notice of Interview

You will receive a notice to attend an adjustment of status interview also by mail. Keep in mind filing a well-prepared adjustment package with all necessary documentation helps your chances. The adjustment of status interview will be scheduled at a USCIS.

Attending Your Adjustment of Status Interview

Your adjustment of status interview will occur anywhere between 6 and 12 months after filing your Form I-485.  Your interview notice will give you a list of items you should take to the interview. 

You should have the following documents to show:

  • A complete copy of your immigrant petition and adjustment of status application.
  • Originals of any documents that you submitted to USCIS, such as birth and marriage certificates.
  • Your EAD card.
  • Your passport, which contains the nonimmigrant visa by which you entered the U.S.

Receiving Permanent Residence

If your application is approved, USCIS will mail your Green Card to you shortly after your adjustment of status interview, so you no longer need the EAD card. As a permanent resident, you have the right to travel outside the United States and return with a valid green card. You may also use the card as proof of your right to work in the United States.

According to USCIS rules, once your adjustment of status application is approved, you may ask the USCIS office to place an “I-551” stamp on your passport. This is temporary proof that you are a permanent resident and is valid for re-entry at a U.S. port of entry. If you did not receive your green card in the mail, you can make a case inquiry.

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