What Happens After the EAD Expedite Request is Approved

When you submit an EAD (Employment Authorization Document) expedite request, the process begins with the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) creating a case for you. This case is then sent to the respective USCIS service center for further processing. It is important to understand what happens next and how you can track the status of your expedited request.

Creation of the Case

When you submit your expedite request, USCIS will officially create a case file for you. This file is then sent to the relevant USCIS service center for processing. It may take some time for the case to reach the center, and during this period, you will not receive any specific updates about your request status.

Case Updates and Tracking

Once your case reaches the USCIS service center, you will start receiving updates on the case status. These updates can be viewed on the USCIS case status website. After submission, you might see something like this:

On April 9, your request to have your case expedited with referral number xxxx was assigned to an officer for response.

These updates are crucial as they reflect the progress of your case. You should regularly check the status of your request to stay informed about any developments.

Expected Process After Approval

Assuming your expedite request is approved, the following steps typically follow:

1. Verification of Case Details

Once your request is approved, USCIS will review your case to ensure all necessary details are correct and complete. Any missing or incorrect information might delay the final processing stage.

2. Preparation of EAD Card

Once your case has been verified, USCIS will prepare the Employment Authorization Document (EAD) for you. This EAD card is specifically designed for individuals who urgently need work authorization due to a pending or approved immigration application.

3. Schedule a Biometric Appointment (if applicable)

Depending on your situation, you might need to schedule a biometric appointment. This involves providing a fingerprint and photograph to US government officials. Prepare to bring your identity documents, such as a valid passport or foreign passport, to this appointment.

4. Submission of the Biometric Appointment

Once the biometric appointment is scheduled, submit the required documentation to USCIS. This step ensures that your biometric data is collected and matched to your identity.

5. Processing of EAD Card

After completing all necessary steps, including the biometric appointment, USCIS will process your EAD card. The processing time can vary, but typically takes a few weeks to a few months, depending on the workload of the USCIS office handling your case.

Conclusion

Understanding the steps involved in the EAD expedite process can help you manage your expectations and be more prepared. Regularly checking the case status and following the instructions provided by USCIS can help ensure a smoother and more efficient process.

Remember, the key is to stay informed and proactive. By being mindful of these steps, you can ensure that you meet all the requirements and receive the necessary work authorization as soon as possible.