How Long Does It Take to Receive an EAD Card After Approval Notice- A Comprehensive Guide

by liuqiyue

How Long to Receive EAD Card After Approval Notice

Receiving an Employment Authorization Document (EAD) card is a significant milestone for many individuals in the United States who have applied for employment-based visas. The EAD card is essential for proving eligibility to work in the country. However, many applicants often wonder how long they can expect to wait after receiving their approval notice before they receive their actual EAD card. In this article, we will discuss the factors that can affect the delivery time and provide an estimated timeline for when you can expect to receive your EAD card after approval notice.

Factors Affecting Delivery Time

The delivery time for an EAD card after approval notice can vary depending on several factors. These include:

  • Application Type: The type of application you have submitted can impact the processing time. For instance, renewing an existing EAD card is generally faster than applying for a new one.
  • Service Center: Each United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) service center has its own processing times. Some centers may be more efficient than others, leading to quicker delivery of EAD cards.
  • Application Volume: The volume of applications being processed at any given time can affect the overall processing time. During peak seasons, such as the end of the fiscal year, USCIS may experience higher application volumes, which can lead to longer wait times.
  • Postage: The method of delivery you choose for your EAD card can impact the delivery time. While USCIS offers expedited shipping options, these may come at an additional cost.

Estimated Timeline for Delivery

Based on the factors mentioned above, here is an estimated timeline for when you can expect to receive your EAD card after approval notice:

  • New EAD Card: If you are applying for a new EAD card, it typically takes between 2 to 3 months from the date of submission to receive your card. However, this timeline can vary depending on the factors mentioned earlier.
  • EAD Card Renewal: Renewing an existing EAD card is generally faster, with an estimated processing time of 1 to 2 months from the date of submission.
  • Expedited Processing: If you choose to expedite your application, USCIS may be able to process it within 15 calendar days. However, this option is not always available and may come at an additional cost.

Conclusion

Receiving your EAD card after approval notice is an important step in the immigration process. While the estimated timeline for delivery can vary, it is essential to consider the factors that may affect the processing time. By being aware of these factors and staying informed about your application’s status, you can better prepare for the arrival of your EAD card and plan accordingly.

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