Employment Authorization Documents (EADs) in South Carolina

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

The process for applying for an Employment Authorization Document (EAD) in South Carolina is as follows:

1. Determine Your Eligibility: To obtain an EAD, you must prove that you are authorized to work in the United States. There are several categories of eligibility, including refugees, asylum seekers, and certain nonimmigrants.

2. Gather Necessary Documents: You will need to provide evidence that you are authorized to work and other relevant documents. These may include proof of identity, proof of immigration status, and supporting evidence for your eligibility.

3. Complete the Application Form: You must complete the Form I-765 (Application for Employment Authorization) to apply for an EAD.

4. Submit Your Application: Once you have completed your application, you will need to submit it to the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). You can submit your application online, by mail, or in-person at a USCIS office.

5. Receive Your Authorization Card: After USCIS has reviewed your application, they will issue you an Employment Authorization Document (EAD). This card will have an expiration date and will need to be renewed when it expires.

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

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

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

2. Proof of identity and proof of legal presence in the United States such as a valid passport, permanent resident card, or other U.S. government-issued identification document.

3. A copy of your application for adjustment of status or other documentation from USCIS showing that you are eligible for work authorization.

4. A copy of your Social Security card or an official document that verifies your Social Security Number (SSN).

5. Two recent passport-style photographs that meet USCIS requirements.

6. Any additional documents requested by USCIS in support of your application.

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

No, Employment Authorization Documents (EADs) are not valid for work in other states. Each state has their own set of regulations and requirements for obtaining and using an EAD. Therefore, an EAD issued in South Carolina is only valid for work in South Carolina and is not valid in other states.

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

It typically takes approximately 90 days for a South Carolina resident to receive an Employment Authorization Document (EAD) after USCIS has approved the application.

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

The fee for obtaining an Employment Authorization Document (EAD) in South Carolina is $410. This fee includes the USCIS filing fee of $410, biometrics fee of $85 and the applicable fee for any premium processing services.

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

No, generally there is no fee to renew your Employment Authorization Document (EAD) in South Carolina. However, you may be required to pay a fee if you are requesting a new card due to a change of name or other category change.

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

No, you must be located in South Carolina to apply for an Employment Authorization Document (EAD). You cannot apply for an EAD from outside the state.

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

Yes, you can travel while your Employment Authorization Document (EAD) application is being processed in South Carolina, provided that you have a valid passport and the necessary visa for the country or countries you wish to visit.

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

Yes, family members may be eligible to apply for an Employment Authorization Document (EAD) along with you in South Carolina. To do so, they must submit Form I-765 with the appropriate fee and evidence that they are related to you. Family members eligible to apply for an EAD include spouses, children, and parents of the applicant.

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

Yes, while your Employment Authorization Document (EAD) application is being processed, you can work in South Carolina. However, you must provide proof that you have applied for an EAD and must present a receipt notice when you start work.

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

In order to qualify for an Employment Authorization Document (EAD) in South Carolina, applicants must be:

– an asylee or refugee
– a person with pending asylum applications
– a holder of a valid employment authorization document issued by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security
– a lawful permanent resident (LPR)
– a nonimmigrant with a valid work permit, such as an H-1B or J-1 visa
– a person granted Cancellation of Removal or Suspension of Deportation
– a lawful temporary visitor, such as a B-2 tourist visa holder
– a pending applicant for adjustment of status
– a pending applicant for asylum or withholding of removal

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

In addition to the ability to work legally in the United States, an Employment Authorization Document (EAD) can provide some other benefits in South Carolina. These benefits include the ability to obtain a driver’s license or identification card, open a bank account, apply for certain government benefits, and access certain social services. Additionally, some South Carolina employers may provide additional benefits or incentives to EAD holders.

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

No, there are no restrictions on the types of jobs you can hold with an Employment Authorization Document (EAD) issued in South Carolina. You can work in any job that does not require U.S. citizenship or a green card.

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

No. Generally, Employment Authorization Documents are valid for up to two years. If you are granted an EAD and need to continue working in the U.S., you may need to submit an application to renew your authorization before it expires.

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

You can check the status of your Employment Authorization Document (EAD) application in South Carolina by contacting USCIS by phone or mail. You can also check the status of your application online or by using the USCIS “My Case Status” tool. Additionally, you can contact the National Customer Service Center for updates on your case.

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

No, there is no grace period to renew your Employment Authorization Document (EAD) after it expires. You must submit a renewal application before the expiration date in order to remain employed. Failure to do so may result in the termination of your employment.

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

No, you do not need to submit any additional documents after submitting your application for an Employment Authorization Document (EAD) in South Carolina. However, USCIS may request additional evidence or information in order to make a decision on your application. If this happens, USCIS will notify you with instructions on how to submit the requested documents.

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

Yes, you may be able to apply again. However, the USCIS will review the reasons for the denial of your initial application and may require a new application to be filed with additional documentation or information before a new decision is made. If you are unsure about why your application was denied, you should contact the USCIS directly for more information.

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

No, only one valid Employment Authorization Document (EAD) may be issued by South Carolina at a time. If you wish to receive another valid EAD, you must submit a new application with the appropriate fees and required documentation.

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

The general penalties for using a fraudulent or expired Employment Authorization Document (EAD) issued by South Carolina include a fine of up to $10,000 or imprisonment of up to five years, or both. Additionally, an individual who is convicted of using a fraudulent or expired EAD may also be subject to civil penalties, such as forfeiture of wages and/or liquidated damages.