1. What is the process for applying for an Employment Authorization Document (EAD) in Virginia?
In order to apply for an Employment Authorization Document (EAD) in Virginia, applicants must first file Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization, with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). Applicants must provide evidence that they are legally in the United States and that they need the EAD to work. Depending on an applicant’s immigration status, they may also need to provide additional information or documents to establish their eligibility for an EAD. Applicants should also submit a valid form of identification, such as a passport, driver’s license, or state ID. The application fee must be paid at the time of submission. Once the application is received and accepted by USCIS, it will take approximately three months for the applicant to receive their EAD card if approved.
2. What documents do I need to present to obtain an Employment Authorization Document (EAD) in Virginia?
In order to obtain an Employment Authorization Document (EAD) in Virginia you will need to have a valid passport, a completed Form I-765, evidence of eligibility or authorization as provided by the applicable regulations, and evidence of your identity and immigration status. Depending on the specific purpose of the EAD, you may also need to provide additional documentation.
3. Are Employment Authorization Documents (EADs) issued in Virginia valid for work in other states?
Yes, Employment Authorization Documents (EADs) issued in Virginia are valid for work in other states. However, any state-specific requirements such as work permits may still need to be obtained from the other state. It is important for individuals to check the requirements of the state they are working in before beginning any job.
4. How long does it take to receive an Employment Authorization Document (EAD) in Virginia?
The average processing time for Employment Authorization Documents (EADs) is 90 days from the date USCIS receives a complete application package, but times may vary. In some cases, the processing time may be longer.
5. What is the fee for obtaining an Employment Authorization Document (EAD) in Virginia?
The fee for obtaining an Employment Authorization Document (EAD) in Virginia is $410. This fee includes the filing fee of $410 and biometric services fee of $85.
6. Do I need to pay an additional fee to renew my Employment Authorization Document (EAD) in Virginia?
No. You do not need to pay an additional fee to renew your Employment Authorization Document (EAD) in Virginia. The fee to apply for a new EAD or to renew an existing EAD is the same. The fee for either is $410.
7. Can I apply for an Employment Authorization Document (EAD) while outside of Virginia?
Yes, you can apply for an Employment Authorization Document (EAD) while outside of Virginia. However, you must submit all necessary documents to the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) office located in Virginia. Additionally, you must pay the applicable fees and be fingerprinted in the US before the application is approved.
8. Can I travel while my Employment Authorization Document (EAD) application is being processed in Virginia?
Yes, you may travel while your Employment Authorization Document (EAD) application is being processed in Virginia. However, it is important to note that if you depart the United States while your EAD application is pending, USCIS will likely treat this as an abandonment of your application and deny it.
9. Can my family members apply for an Employment Authorization Document (EAD) with me in Virginia?
Yes, eligible family members of the principal EAD applicant may apply for an Employment Authorization Document (EAD) with them in Virginia. Principal EAD applicants must submit Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization, to the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). Eligible family members may submit Form I-765W, Supplement to Form I-765, to USCIS with the principal applicant’s application. Individuals who qualify for an EAD will receive a Form I-766, Employment Authorization Document.
10. Can I work while my Employment Authorization Document (EAD) application is being processed in Virginia?
Yes, you may work while your Employment Authorization Document (EAD) application is being processed in Virginia. However, you must have other valid documentation that permits you to work, such as a valid visa or other authorization.
11. What are the eligibility requirements for applying for an Employment Authorization Document (EAD) in Virginia?
In order to be eligible to apply for an Employment Authorization Document (EAD) in Virginia, the applicant must meet one of the following criteria: (1) have a pending application for Asylum in the U.S., (2) have been granted asylum in the U.S., (3) have a pending application for refugee status, (4) have been granted refugee status, (5) have a pending or approved application for adjustment of status, (6) be a nonimmigrant on a valid visa in the U.S., (7) be an applicant for T or U nonimmigrant status, (8) be a VAWA self-petitioner, (9) be an applicant for the Cuban Adjustment Act, (10) have Temporary Protected Status, or (11) have any other immigration status that allows employment authorization.
12. What other benefits can I receive with an Employment Authorization Document (EAD) issued in Virginia?
An Employment Authorization Document (EAD) issued in Virginia may provide certain benefits, such as the ability to work legally in the United States, obtain Social Security benefits, obtain driver’s license or state identification cards, and access other government services. Additionally, an EAD may provide protection or deferral status from removal for certain groups of individuals, such as those with pending applications for permanent residence or asylum.
13. Are there any restrictions on the types of jobs I can hold with an Employment Authorization Document (EAD) issued in Virginia?
No, there are no restrictions on the types of jobs you can hold with an Employment Authorization Document (EAD) issued in Virginia. You may work in any occupation 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 Virginia?
Yes, if your EAD is temporary, you will need to renew it each year or when the expiration date on the card passes. For some types of EADs, you may be able to renew it up to 180 days before the expiration date. You should contact U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) for more information about renewing your EAD.
15. How do I check the status of my Employment Authorization Document (EAD) application in Virginia?
You can check the status of your Employment Authorization Document (EAD) application in Virginia by calling USCIS at 1-800-375-5283 and asking for your case status. You can also check the status of your application online by visiting the USCIS website and entering your receipt number.
16. Is there a grace period to renew my Employment Authorization Document (EAD) in Virginia after it expires?
No, there is no grace period for renewing an Employment Authorization Document (EAD) in Virginia after it expires. Individuals must submit a renewal application before their current EAD expires to avoid any disruption in their employment authorization.
17. Do I need to submit any additional documents after submitting my application for an Employment Authorization Document (EAD) in Virginia?
No, you do not need to submit any additional documents after submitting your application for an Employment Authorization Document (EAD) in Virginia. If USCIS requires additional information or documentation, they will contact you directly.
18. If my Employment Authorization Document (EAD) application is denied, can I apply again in Virginia?
You may apply again for an Employment Authorization Document (EAD). Whether or not you will be approved will depend on the reasons for your denial. You will need to review the notice you received from USCIS when your application was denied to determine if you can reapply.
19. Can I have more than one valid Employment Authorization Document (EAD) issued by Virginia at the same time?
No, you cannot have more than one valid Employment Authorization Document (EAD) issued by Virginia at the same time. However, you may be eligible to apply for a renewal of your current EAD or apply for a new EAD if your circumstances have changed.
20. What are the penalties for using a fraudulent or expired Employment Authorization Document (EAD) issued by Virginia?
The penalties for using a fraudulent or expired Employment Authorization Document (EAD) issued by Virginia are very serious. In general, any person who willfully uses, purchases, sells, attempts to use, attempts to purchase, or attempts to sell such a document is guilty of a felony offense and may be punished by up to five years in prison and/or a fine of up to $25,000. Additionally, any employer who knowingly employs an unauthorized alien is subject to civil penalties of up to $10,000 per violation.