1. What is the process for applying for an Employment Authorization Document (EAD) in Puerto Rico?

The process for applying for an Employment Authorization Document (EAD) in Puerto Rico is for the applicant to submit Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization, to U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). The applicant must also provide the required supporting documents and fees. After USCIS reviews the application, it will issue an Employment Authorization Document to the applicant.

2. What documents do I need to present to obtain an Employment Authorization Document (EAD) in Puerto Rico?

In order to obtain an Employment Authorization Document (EAD) in Puerto Rico, you must present the following documents:

1. A completed Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization.

2. Proof of identity, such as a passport or driver’s license.

3. Evidence of your status in the United States, such as a valid visa or green card.

4. A fee of $410 (or $410 plus a biometrics fee, if applicable).

5. Any relevant supporting documentation, such as proof of eligibility for a particular work authorization category or evidence demonstrating why an EAD is needed.

6. Two passport-style photographs, taken within the past 30 days.

3. Are Employment Authorization Documents (EADs) issued in Puerto Rico valid for work in other states?

Yes, Employment Authorization Documents (EADs) issued in Puerto Rico are valid for work in other states in the United States.

4. How long does it take to receive an Employment Authorization Document (EAD) in Puerto Rico?

The average processing time for an Employment Authorization Document (EAD) in Puerto Rico is approximately 4-5 months.

5. What is the fee for obtaining an Employment Authorization Document (EAD) in Puerto Rico?

The fee for obtaining an Employment Authorization Document (EAD) in Puerto Rico is $410.

6. Do I need to pay an additional fee to renew my Employment Authorization Document (EAD) in Puerto Rico?

No, you do not need to pay an additional fee to renew your Employment Authorization Document (EAD) in Puerto Rico. The same federal fee applies to all EAD renewals regardless of the location.

7. Can I apply for an Employment Authorization Document (EAD) while outside of Puerto Rico?

No, you cannot apply for an Employment Authorization Document (EAD) while outside of Puerto Rico. You must be physically in Puerto Rico in order to apply for an EAD.

8. Can I travel while my Employment Authorization Document (EAD) application is being processed in Puerto Rico?

Yes, you can travel while your Employment Authorization Document (EAD) application is pending in Puerto Rico. However, if you plan to travel outside of the United States, you must first obtain an Advance Parole document before departing. This document enables you to return to the United States without any issues.

9. Can my family members apply for an Employment Authorization Document (EAD) with me in Puerto Rico?

Yes, family members may apply for an Employment Authorization Document (EAD) with you in Puerto Rico. However, they must meet the requirements for the EAD and submit the appropriate paperwork.

10. Can I work while my Employment Authorization Document (EAD) application is being processed in Puerto Rico?

Yes, you may work while your Employment Authorization Document (EAD) application is being processed in Puerto Rico. However, you must present proof that you have applied for the EAD to your employer and be able to demonstrate that you are authorized to work in the United States.

11. What are the eligibility requirements for applying for an Employment Authorization Document (EAD) in Puerto Rico?

In order to be eligible to apply for an Employment Authorization Document (EAD) in Puerto Rico, you must meet the following requirements:

1. You must be a foreign national within a specific immigration status that is authorized to work in the U.S.

2. You must have a valid Puerto Rico address where you are currently living.

3. You must be lawfully admitted in the territory of Puerto Rico as a nonimmigrant, refugee, or other type of status.

4. You must be present in Puerto Rico at the time of filing and possess either a valid passport or other travel document.

5. You must demonstrate that you have the financial means to support yourself during your stay in Puerto Rico.

6. You must provide evidence of employment offer or request permission to work independently in Puerto Rico.

7. You must demonstrate that you will not become a public charge while on the island.

8. You must not have any criminal records and be committed to following all laws and regulations of Puerto Rico and the United States.

12. What other benefits can I receive with an Employment Authorization Document (EAD) issued in Puerto Rico?

In addition to providing evidence that you are authorized to work in the United States, an Employment Authorization Document (EAD) issued in Puerto Rico can also be used as proof of identity and as a valid form of identification. Depending on the type of EAD you have, you may also be able to get Social Security benefits, apply for certain government jobs, and access other state or federal benefits.

13. Are there any restrictions on the types of jobs I can hold with an Employment Authorization Document (EAD) issued in Puerto Rico?

No. An Employment Authorization Document (EAD) issued in Puerto Rico allows you to work in any occupation in Puerto Rico or any other U.S. state. You may work for any employer who is willing to hire you, provided that the job does not require additional authorization from U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).

14. Do I need to renew my Employment Authorization Document (EAD) every year in Puerto Rico?

Yes. You must renew your EAD every year in Puerto Rico. To renew your EAD, you will need to submit Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization, along with the required supporting documents and applicable fees.

15. How do I check the status of my Employment Authorization Document (EAD) application in Puerto Rico?

You can check the status of your Employment Authorization Document (EAD) application in Puerto Rico by calling the USCIS National Customer Service Center at 800-375-5283 or visiting the USCIS website at https://www.uscis.gov/ and selecting “Check Your Case Status” at the top of the page to access the case status tool.

16. Is there a grace period to renew my Employment Authorization Document (EAD) in Puerto Rico after it expires?

Yes, there is a grace period. Once your EAD has expired, you have 60 days to renew it before any immigration enforcement action is taken. During this time, you may still continue to work as long as you have applied for a renewal and are waiting for a decision from USCIS.

17. Do I need to submit any additional documents after submitting my application for an Employment Authorization Document (EAD) in Puerto Rico?

Yes, you may be required to submit additional documents depending on the type of employment authorization you are seeking and your individual circumstances. The instructions for Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization, provide detailed information on which documents are required. Additionally, USCIS may request that you provide additional evidence to confirm your eligibility for the requested immigration benefit.

18. If my Employment Authorization Document (EAD) application is denied, can I apply again in Puerto Rico?

Yes, you can reapply for an Employment Authorization Document (EAD) in Puerto Rico. You should be aware that the filing fee and other requirements may differ from those of the original application.

19. Can I have more than one valid Employment Authorization Document (EAD) issued by Puerto Rico at the same time?

No, you cannot have more than one valid Employment Authorization Document (EAD) issued by Puerto Rico at the same time. The EAD will be valid only for a specified period of time and must be renewed upon expiration.

20. What are the penalties for using a fraudulent or expired Employment Authorization Document (EAD) issued by Puerto Rico?

The penalties for using a fraudulent or expired Employment Authorization Document (EAD) issued by Puerto Rico can include fines, jail time, and/or deportation. Additionally, employers found to be knowingly employing individuals with invalid EADs may also be subject to criminal and civil penalties.