Non-citizens with a pending application for adjustment of status with USCIS are eligible to apply for a temporary work permit known as and Employment Authorization Document (EAD). There is no USCIS fee to apply for an EAD so it is recommended that everybody applies for one regardless of whether they intend to seek employment or not. An EAD helps the applicant apply for a Social Security Number and a driver’s license.
While timelines vary, it usually takes USCIS at least six months to issue an EAD. There may be some instances where you need to seek employment sooner – such as an emergency financial situation.
In emergency cases, it may be possible to request an Emergency Employment Authorization Document with USCIS. To do so, you should call USCIS at (800) 375-5283 and request an InfoPass appointment. A USCIS representative will ask you for the basis of your request. You should be prepared to have supporting documentation, including proof of the financial need or emergency, as well as your I-485 receipt number.
The USCIS representative will schedule an InfoPass appointment at a local field office on your behalf. You may also be asked to fax in the supporting documentation instead. If USCIS is satisfied with your request, it will issue an EAD card.
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