Green Card EAD Category C09 Processing Time, and Application Process
The C09 EAD category is for individuals who have applied for adjustment of status (Form I-485) to become a lawful permanent resident (Green Card holder) in the United States. This category allows applicants to work legally in the U.S. while their adjustment of status I-485 application is pending.
Table of Contents: Green Card EAD (Category C09)
EAD Category C09 Processing Time
The above table shows the current processing time for I-765 applications under the C09 category at each service center.
The following table shows the current processing date range during which 90% of applications are approved or completed at various USCIS service centers.
How to Apply for Green Card EAD (C09 Category)?
To apply for an Employment Authorization Document (EAD) under the C09 category, you need to follow these steps:
Complete Form I-765
Download and complete Form I-765 from the USCIS website.
Follow these I-765 instructions to fill out the form.
On the form indicate that you are applying under category C09.
Do not forget to sign the form (in original).
Collect Required Documents for EAD Application (C09 Category)
Form I-485 receipt notice.
2 recent passport-size photos.
Passport and visa copy.
Copy of last EAD (if applicable).
I-94 copy.
Marriage/Birth certificate (if applicable).
Cover letter (optional).
Filing Fee
The fee is 0$ if you are filing an initial EAD under the C09 category so no need to write a check.
It's good to check the USCIS fee calculator to check the latest fee as these might change in the future.
Cover Letter (Optional)
This is optional if you want to include a cover letter with your EAD application or not, but it will help USCIS officers understand your case quickly. A sample is provided in the next section.
Mailing Address
Refer to the "If you have a pending adjustment of status application" section on the USCIS website for the latest filing address.
After submission, you will receive a receipt notice by mail at the address provided by you in the EAD application. You may be required to attend a biometrics appointment if USCIS requests it. Once EAD is approved, USCIS will mail your EAD card to you.
Refer to the first three letters of the receipt notice to determine the USCIS service center and processing time for your application.
Cover Letter for Green Card EAD (C09 Category)
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[City, State, ZIP Code]
[Email Address]
[Phone Number]
[Date]
USCIS
[Address of the USCIS Service Center]
Subject: Application for Employment Authorization Document (Form I-765) under C09 Category
Dear Sir/Madam,
I am writing to submit my application for an Employment Authorization Document (EAD) under the C09 category, as my Form I-485, Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status, is currently pending.
Please find enclosed the following documents in support of my application:
Completed Form I-765.
Form I-485 Receipt Notice (Form I-797).
Two Passport-Sized Photos.
Copy of Passport Biographic Page and Visa.
Copy of I-94 Arrival/Departure Record.
Copy of Previous EAD (if applicable).
Copy of Birth/Marriage Certificate (if applicable).
Optional: Form G-1145 (E-Notification of Application/Petition Acceptance).
I have carefully reviewed my application and have provided all necessary documentation. If you need any further information or documentation, please contact me at the provided phone number or email address.
Thank you for your time and consideration.
Sincerely,
[Your Signature]
[Your Printed Name]
FAQs on Green Card EAD
What are the eligibility criteria for the C09 EAD category?
To be eligible for the C09 EAD category, you must have a pending Form I-485 (Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status).
What is the application process to obtain EAD under the C09 category?
To obtain an EAD under the C09 category while your I-485 application is pending, you need to file Form I-765 (Application for Employment Authorization) with USCIS.
What is the validity of EAD under the C09 category?
The EAD is typically valid for one year but can be renewed if the adjustment of status application is still pending.
What's the filing fee for the C09 EAD category?
There is no filing fee for the initial EAD application under the C09 category.
Can I travel when my I-485 application is pending?
You need to apply for advance parole (Form I-131) if you wish to travel outside the U.S. and return without abandoning your adjustment of status application.
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