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Asylum & RefugeeVictorvilleUpdated: January 25, 202612 min read

Asylum EAD Renewal in Victorville: Work Permit Extension for Pending Cases

Maintaining work authorization while your asylum case is pending

SoCal Immigration Services
Reviewed by: Maria Santos, DOJ Accredited Representative

Quick Answer

For asylum seekers in Victorville and the High Desert area who already have work authorization, renewing your EAD before it expires is critical to maintaining employment. SoCal Immigration Services provides Arabic-speaking assistance for asylum EAD renewals.

Reviewed for accuracy by

Maria Santos

DOJ Accredited Representative • 15+ years experience

For asylum seekers in Victorville and the High Desert area who already have work authorization, renewing your EAD before it expires is critical to maintaining employment. SoCal Immigration Services provides Arabic-speaking assistance for asylum EAD renewals.

Understanding Asylum EAD (C08 Category)

Asylum applicants can obtain work authorization after waiting 180 days from filing:

C08 Category:
• Issued to pending asylum applicants
• Allows unrestricted employment
• Valid for 2 years initially
• Must be renewed while case is pending
• Does not expire during automatic extension period

When to File for EAD Renewal

Timing is crucial for continuous work authorization:
  • File 180 days before current EAD expires
  • At minimum, file 90 days before expiration
  • Automatic extension applies if filed timely
  • Don't wait until last minute
  • Monitor processing times for your service center

Automatic EAD Extension Rules

Filing on time triggers automatic extension:

How It Works:
• EAD automatically extended up to 540 days
• Applies when renewal filed before expiration
• Must be same category (C08)
• Use expired EAD + I-797C receipt as proof
• Employers must accept extended EAD

Documents Needed for EAD Renewal

Gather these for your renewal application:
  • Form I-765 (Application for Employment Authorization)
  • Copy of current/expired EAD (front and back)
  • Copy of I-797C receipt for pending asylum
  • Two passport-style photos
  • Copy of government-issued ID
  • Filing fee ($0 for asylum-based EAD)

No Filing Fee for Asylum EAD

Asylum-based EADs have no filing fee:

Fee Exemption:
• Initial asylum EAD: $0
• Renewal asylum EAD: $0
• Replacement asylum EAD: $0
• Applies to all C08 category applications

This exemption helps asylum seekers who may have limited resources while their cases are pending.

What If Your EAD Expires Before Renewal Arrives

Options if you have a gap in work authorization:

With Automatic Extension:
• Show employer expired EAD + I-797C receipt
• Continue working legally
• Automatic extension is valid for 540 days

Without Automatic Extension:
• Cannot work until new EAD arrives
• Consider expedite request if hardship exists
• Stay in contact with employer about timing

Expediting Asylum EAD Renewal

You may request faster processing if you have:
  • Severe financial loss to company or individual
  • Urgent humanitarian reasons
  • USCIS error causing delay
  • Job offer requiring immediate work authorization
  • Medical or family emergency requiring income

Common EAD Renewal Issues

Avoid these problems that delay renewal:
  • Filing too late (no automatic extension)
  • Wrong category code on application
  • Missing asylum receipt notice
  • Photos not meeting specifications
  • Address not updated with USCIS
  • Signing errors on form

Victorville Asylum EAD Services

SoCal Immigration Services assists High Desert asylum seekers:
  • EAD renewal application preparation
  • Document review and organization
  • Expedite requests when qualified
  • Employer communication support
  • Automatic extension letter preparation
  • Arabic-speaking case support

FAQFrequently Asked Questions

Q:How much does asylum EAD renewal cost?

A: There is no filing fee for asylum-based EAD applications, including initial applications, renewals, and replacements. The C08 category is fee-exempt.

Q:How long does asylum EAD renewal take?

A: Processing typically takes 3-6 months, but times vary. The automatic 540-day extension protects you while waiting if you filed before your EAD expired.

Q:Can I work with an expired EAD while renewal is pending?

A: Yes, if you filed for renewal before your EAD expired. The automatic extension allows continued work for up to 540 days using your expired EAD plus the I-797C receipt notice.

Q:What if my asylum case is denied while EAD renewal is pending?

A: If your asylum case is denied, your EAD will be revoked. You may have appeal options. Consult with an immigration attorney immediately about your options.

Q:Can I travel outside the US with asylum EAD?

A: An EAD does not authorize travel. Leaving the US with a pending asylum case can result in abandonment of your application. Consult an attorney before any international travel.

Disclaimer: This article provides general information about immigration services in Victorville and does not constitute legal advice. SoCal Immigration Services is a document preparation company, not a law firm. For legal advice specific to your situation, please consult with a licensed immigration attorney.
Published: January 25, 2026Last Updated: January 25, 2026

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