Aplying for AOS

[rududu 2]

Hi everyone,we are about to file everything,just wondering when it comes to employment authorization,do we need to file for it as well,website says it is optional,so i am wondering, if i just file the main forms without the employment authorization form,will i be able to work after my AOS is approved. Thank you.

[Kathryn41 3,205]

The EAD is optional. If you don't intend to work until after the AOS (green card) is approved then there is no real need to file for it. When you receive your green card (AOS approval) you will be allowed to work. If you wish to work before the AOS is approved, however, you will need the EAD.

One thing you might want to consider, however. The EAD is almost always approved faster than the AOS and provides an excellent form of identification proving you are in the US legally. It is a credit card sized card that you can carry with you. If you intend to drive in the US you will need proof of your legal immigration status in order to get a DL and you can use the EAD for that. If the AOS is approved quickly, then you will probably not have a great need for the EAD, but if, for any reason, your AOS is delayed or takes longer than expected, (mine took nearly 2 years) you will find having the EAD very useful. Since there is no additional fee to file for it, just the additional paperwork to complete, you may find it to your benefit to file for the EAD as well. You've got nothing to lose and everything to gain.

Edited October 19, 2010 by Kathryn41

[Golden_State 2]

I agree with what Kathryn says. The EAD is free and simple to fill out and because it's often approved faster than AOS, you might as well submit it. When you do your biometrics for the AOS, you do it for the EAD at the same time, so there's no extra work involved.

My AOS application is moving slowly, but I received a notice that my EAD card was ordered yesterday, so I should have it at least a month before AOS is complete.

Bottom line: If you want to work ASAP, file the EAD!

[VanessaTony 3,567]

As stated EAD is optional, but the fee is waived when filing with AOS so most do it anyway (and some that don't regret not doing so)

Edited October 20, 2010 by Vanessa&Tony