Advance Parole and EAD Combo Card in Cerritos: Work and Travel While Green Card Pending
Complete guide to obtaining the combined work permit and travel document for adjustment applicants
Quick Answer
For Cerritos residents with pending I-485 adjustment of status applications, the Combo Card offers a powerful two-in-one solution: work authorization and travel permission in a single document. SoCal Immigration Services helps Cerritos families understand and obtain this essential document.
Reviewed for accuracy by
Maria Santos
DOJ Accredited Representative • 15+ years experience
For Cerritos residents with pending I-485 adjustment of status applications, the Combo Card offers a powerful two-in-one solution: work authorization and travel permission in a single document. SoCal Immigration Services helps Cerritos families understand and obtain this essential document.
What is a Combo Card?
Employment Authorization Document (EAD):
• Permits legal employment with any U.S. employer
• Valid for I-9 employment verification
• Allows job changes without restrictions
• Self-employment permitted
Advance Parole:
• Authorizes international travel
• Allows re-entry to the U.S. while I-485 is pending
• Multiple trips permitted during validity period
• Essential for emergency travel needs
The Combo Card eliminates the need for separate applications and separate documents, streamlining the process for Cerritos applicants.
Why Apply for a Combo Card Instead of Separate Documents?
| Factor | Combo Card | Separate EAD + AP |
|---|---|---|
| Documents to Carry | One card | Two separate documents |
| Filing Process | Single submission | Two applications |
| Processing | Often faster | May process at different times |
| Convenience | Single biometrics | Potentially multiple appointments |
| Validity Period | 2 years typically | Same 2 years |
| Renewal | One renewal process | Two renewal processes |
Who Can Apply for a Combo Card in Cerritos?
- •Pending I-485 adjustment of status applicants (family-based)
- •Pending I-485 employment-based green card applicants
- •Diversity Visa lottery winners adjusting status
- •Refugees adjusting to permanent resident status (I-485)
- •VAWA self-petitioners with pending I-485
- •Cuban Adjustment Act applicants
- •Certain special immigrant categories
- •Applicants under Registry (INA 249)
- •Pending asylum applicants with I-485 filed
How to Apply for a Combo Card
- 1File or Have Pending I-485
Your adjustment of status application must be filed or pending before you can apply for the Combo Card.
- 2Complete Form I-765
Fill out the Application for Employment Authorization. Select category (c)(9) for I-485 applicants.
- 3Complete Form I-131
Fill out the Application for Travel Document. Select Advance Parole based on pending I-485.
- 4Gather Supporting Documents
Collect passport photos, ID copies, I-485 receipt notice, and other required evidence.
- 5Submit Both Forms Together
File I-765 and I-131 together, either online through USCIS account or by mail.
- 6Attend Biometrics Appointment
USCIS will schedule one biometrics appointment covering both applications.
- 7Receive Combo Card
Upon approval, receive a single card with both EAD and AP authorization.
Required Documents for Combo Card Application
- •Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization
- •Form I-131, Application for Travel Document
- •Two identical passport-style photos (2x2 inches)
- •Copy of I-485 receipt notice (Form I-797C)
- •Copy of government-issued photo ID (both sides)
- •Copy of passport biographical page
- •Copy of passport page with most recent U.S. visa (if applicable)
- •Copy of most recent I-94 arrival/departure record
- •Copy of current EAD/AP (if renewal)
- •Copy of any prior immigration status documents
Filing Fees for Combo Card
I-485 Based Applications:
• No separate fee for I-765 or I-131
• Both forms included in I-485 filing fee
• Applies to initial applications and renewals
• Valid for category (c)(9) EAD applicants
When Fees Apply:
• Some non-I-485 based applications require fees
• Fee waiver (I-912) available for qualifying applicants
• Always verify current fee schedule on USCIS website
Biometrics Fee:
• Typically included or waived for I-485 applicants
• Check current requirements at time of filing
Combo Card Processing Times
| Stage | Timeline | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Receipt Notice | 2-3 weeks | Confirmation of filing |
| Biometrics Notice | 3-6 weeks | ASC appointment scheduled |
| Card Production | 3-6 months | Current average for combo cards |
| Card Delivery | 1-2 weeks | After production complete |
| Total Process | 4-7 months | From filing to card in hand |
Critical Travel Warnings for Cerritos Residents
Advance Parole is NOT a Visa:
• You may still face inspection at the border
• CBP can deny entry despite having AP
• Be prepared to explain your trip and pending case
Who Should NOT Travel:
• Those who entered without inspection (unless 245(i) eligible)
• Applicants with unlawful presence issues
• Pending asylum applicants (may abandon claim)
• Those with criminal history affecting admissibility
• Anyone with unresolved immigration violations
H-1B/L-1 Status Holders:
• Using AP may abandon your H or L status
• If I-485 denied, you lose backup status
• Consult immigration professional before traveling
Best Practices:
• Keep trips short and purposeful
• Carry all immigration documents when traveling
• Have return ticket and proof of ties to U.S.
Using Your Combo Card at the Border
Documents to Carry:
• Combo Card (original, not copy)
• Valid passport from your country
• I-485 receipt notice
• Any RFE responses or correspondence with USCIS
• Evidence of your address and ties in the U.S.
At the Port of Entry:
• Present Combo Card and passport to CBP officer
• Explain you are returning with Advance Parole
• Be prepared to answer questions about your trip
• Officer may ask about your pending I-485 case
Potential Issues:
• Extended secondary inspection is possible
• CBP may contact USCIS to verify pending case
• Keep calm and answer questions truthfully
Combo Card for Work Authorization
Presenting to Employers:
• Show Combo Card for I-9 verification
• Card serves as List A document (identity + work authorization)
• Employer cannot demand additional documents
• No need to disclose pending green card to employer
Employment Rights:
• Work for any employer in the U.S.
• Change jobs freely without immigration consequences
• Self-employment permitted
• No specific employer sponsorship required
Social Security:
• Apply for SSN at local Social Security office
• Bring Combo Card and passport
• SSN card will indicate 'Valid for work with DHS authorization'
Renewing Your Combo Card
When to File Renewal:
• File 6 months (180 days) before expiration
• Don't wait until card expires
• Allow time for processing delays
Automatic Extension Rules:
• EAD portion extended up to 540 days if filed timely
• Must file before current EAD expires
• Advance Parole portion NOT automatically extended
• Use receipt notice + expired card as work proof
Renewal Process:
• File same Forms I-765 and I-131
• Same supporting documents
• No fee for I-485-based applicants
• Indicate renewal on applications
What If You Need to Travel Before Combo Card Arrives?
Expedite Request:
• File expedite request with USCIS
• Must show urgent humanitarian reason
• Severe financial loss to company or individual
• Emergency travel for death or serious illness
• Include supporting documentation
Valid H/L/O Visa:
• If you have valid visa status, travel on that visa
• Do NOT use Advance Parole if you want to keep H/L/O status
• Re-enter in H/L/O status to maintain that classification
Emergency Advance Parole:
• In extreme emergencies, USCIS may issue emergency AP
• Must appear at local USCIS office
• Very limited circumstances qualify
Common Combo Card Mistakes to Avoid
- •Traveling before receiving the physical Combo Card
- •Not carrying all immigration documents when traveling
- •Assuming AP guarantees re-entry to the U.S.
- •Using AP when you should preserve H/L status
- •Traveling with pending asylum application
- •Not filing renewal early enough
- •Missing biometrics appointment
- •Incorrect category code on I-765 form
- •Not reporting address changes to USCIS
- •Assuming Combo Card extends I-485 validity
Cerritos Combo Card Services
- •Initial Combo Card applications with I-485
- •Standalone Combo Card applications for pending cases
- •Combo Card renewal applications
- •Expedite requests for urgent travel
- •Travel risk assessment and counseling
- •RFE response preparation
- •Green card case coordination
- •Arabic language support throughout the process
FAQFrequently Asked Questions
Q:Is the Combo Card free for I-485 applicants?
A: Yes, there is no separate filing fee for the Combo Card (Forms I-765 and I-131) when filed based on a pending I-485 adjustment of status application. The fees are included in the I-485 filing fee. This applies to initial applications and renewals.
Q:How long is the Combo Card valid?
A: Combo Cards are currently issued with 2-year validity. This is a recent policy change from the previous 1-year validity, giving applicants more time before needing to renew.
Q:Can I travel multiple times with my Combo Card?
A: Yes, Advance Parole on the Combo Card allows unlimited trips during its validity period. However, each time you return, you'll go through CBP inspection. Extended or frequent international trips may raise questions.
Q:What happens if my Combo Card expires before my green card is approved?
A: File for renewal 6 months before expiration. The EAD portion is automatically extended for up to 540 days if you file timely. The Advance Parole portion is NOT automatically extended, so avoid travel if your AP has expired.
Q:Can I start working as soon as I receive my Combo Card?
A: Yes, you can begin working immediately upon receiving your Combo Card. Present it to your employer for I-9 verification. You can work for any U.S. employer and change jobs freely.
Q:Should I use my Combo Card or my H-1B visa to travel?
A: If you want to maintain your H-1B status as a backup, travel using your H-1B visa stamp, NOT the Advance Parole on your Combo Card. Using AP may be considered abandoning your H-1B status.
Q:Can I travel with just the Combo Card receipt?
A: No, you cannot travel with only the receipt notice. You must have the physical Combo Card in hand before traveling internationally. The receipt alone does not authorize travel or re-entry.
Q:What if I entered the U.S. without inspection - can I get a Combo Card?
A: You may be able to get a Combo Card if you're eligible for adjustment under INA 245(i). However, traveling with Advance Parole could trigger bars to re-entry. Consult with an immigration professional before traveling.
Need to Work and Travel While Your Green Card is Pending?
Our Cerritos team helps I-485 applicants obtain Combo Cards efficiently. We ensure your application is complete and provide guidance on safe travel practices.
Related Articles
Family Preference Wait Times in Whittier: Understanding Visa Bulletin Priorities for Arab Families
Complete guide to family preference category wait times for Arab families in Whittier including F1-F4 categories, Visa Bulletin updates, and strategies to reduce waiting periods.
J-1 Waiver Services in San Marcos: Two-Year Home Residency Requirement Help for Arab Professionals
Expert J-1 waiver assistance in San Marcos for Arab professionals subject to the two-year home residency requirement including all five waiver bases and application process.