Working while processing AOS

[Khswaby14 2]

My husband and I just got married last week after receiving our K-1 visa. We are looking at the papers now. We don't have the money for the I-485 filling fee at the moment. Can we do his employment authorization before the I-485, so that he can work to help save money for it? Also, is there just one Biometrics appointment for everything?

[Merrytooth 5,748]

For a K-1, applying for EAD before AOS means filing under category A6. If and when this EAD is approved, it will expire concurrently with the K-1's I-94 (90 days after entry).

Considering that the EAD approval could take 60-90 days and costs $380.

what benefit will you derive if you only have less than 30 days to use it (best case)? or without any validity period at all?

It is always advised that one file the EAD/AP (no fees) concurrently with AOS.

[ascertainLovE 165]

For a K-1, applying for EAD before AOS means filing under category A6. If and when this EAD is approved, it will expire concurrently with the K-1's I-94 (90 days after entry).

Considering that the EAD approval could take 60-90 days and costs $380.

what benefit will you derive if you only have less than 30 days to use it (best case)? or without any validity period at all?

It is always advised that one file the EAD/AP (no fees) concurrently with AOS.

The TLDR version is that you need to come up with the money to process AOS.

[Zedayn 485]

My husband and I just got married last week after receiving our K-1 visa. We are looking at the papers now. We don't have the money for the I-485 filling fee at the moment. Can we do his employment authorization before the I-485, so that he can work to help save money for it? Also, is there just one Biometrics appointment for everything?

You can apply for EAD before filing AOS but it is not recommended. The reason is because this EAD will likely expire or be expired when you finally receive it. It is a waste of money for MAYBE a week or so of being able to work.

EAD before AOS:

• Fee $380
• Expires with I-94 and is not renewable
• Takes 60 to 90 days to process.

Best advice: wait until you have the money to file for AOS and then apply for your EAD.

[Boiler 43,397]

Looking at your timeline he has been here a month and a half so absolutely no point and a waste of money.

[LORIEandPHIL 123]

Do what you can to get the money, borrow it if you have to. He can not contribute to your finances without you applying for AOS.

[Pinkrlion 2,607]

The K-1 EAD ends when his I-94 expires, so it is not beneficial to pay the fees. Can you borrow the money? What about using your tax refund? You may need to look at a short term personal loan. Others have done that to pay the fees.

[Khswaby14 2]

Thank you for your information. We are working on figuring it all out,