Asylum EAD Work Permit in Garden Grove: Complete Guide for Arab Immigrants

Quick Answer

Garden Grove is home to one of Southern California's largest Arab immigrant communities, with thousands of asylum seekers waiting for work authorization. At SoCal Immigration Services, we provide specialized I-765 Employment Authorization Document (EAD) services for asylum applicants in Garden Grove, helping you obtain legal work permission while your asylum case is pending.

Reviewed for accuracy by

Maria Santos

DOJ Accredited Representative • 15+ years experience

Understanding Asylum-Based Work Permits (EAD)

An Employment Authorization Document (EAD) allows asylum applicants to work legally in the United States while their asylum application is being processed. This work permit is critical for asylum seekers who need to support themselves and their families during the often lengthy asylum adjudication process.

Key Facts About Asylum EADs:

- Eligibility Timeline: You can apply for an EAD 150 days after filing your asylum application (Form I-589)
- Processing Time: USCIS currently takes 3-8 months to process I-765 applications for asylum seekers
- Validity Period: Initial EADs are typically valid for 2 years from the date of issuance
- Renewal Required: You must renew your EAD before expiration if your asylum case is still pending
- Work Authorization Category: (c)(8) for pending asylum applicants

Benefits of Having an Asylum EAD:

1. Legal employment in any field or industry
2. Ability to obtain a Social Security Number
3. Access to state driver's licenses in California
4. Professional licensing opportunities
5. Bank account establishment
6. Credit building opportunities

The Garden Grove area has numerous employment opportunities in healthcare, hospitality, retail, and small businesses where Arab community members with EADs can find meaningful work. Our team ensures your I-765 application is properly prepared and filed to avoid delays.

Eligibility Requirements for Asylum-Based EAD

Not all asylum applicants are automatically eligible for work authorization. You must meet specific USCIS requirements to qualify for an asylum-based EAD.

Primary Eligibility Criteria:

1. Pending Asylum Application
- You must have filed Form I-589 (Application for Asylum) with USCIS
- Your asylum case must still be pending (not yet decided)
- You cannot have been denied asylum and be only in removal proceedings

2. 150-Day Waiting Period
- At least 150 days must have passed since you filed your complete asylum application
- This is a mandatory waiting period established by law
- Clock stoppages or delays caused by the applicant may extend this period

3. No Employment Authorization Bar
- You must not have any prior immigration violations that bar work authorization
- You cannot have been denied asylum due to filing frivolously
- No criminal convictions that make you ineligible

4. Proper Filing Status
- Your asylum application must have been properly filed with USCIS
- You must maintain legal presence or have pending asylum status

Special Situations for Garden Grove Asylum Seekers:

| Situation | Eligibility Impact |
|-----------|-------------------|
| Asylum filed affirmatively with USCIS | Eligible after 150 days |
| Asylum filed defensively in Immigration Court | Eligible after 150 days |
| Asylum case referred to court | Remain eligible, continue renewals |
| Asylum interview scheduled | Does not affect EAD eligibility |
| Biometrics appointment missed | May delay EAD processing |
| Address change not reported | Can cause EAD denial or delay |

Many Arab asylum seekers in Garden Grove have complex situations involving family members, prior visa overstays, or questions about the 150-day clock. We provide detailed eligibility assessments to ensure you apply at the right time with the right documentation.

Form I-765 Application Process for Asylum Seekers

Filing Form I-765 correctly is essential for obtaining your asylum-based work permit. Errors or missing documentation can result in delays of several months or outright denials.

Step-by-Step I-765 Filing Process:

Step 1: Verify 150-Day Period
- Calculate exact filing date of your I-589 asylum application
- Account for any clock stoppages due to continuances you requested
- Confirm that 150 days have elapsed before submitting I-765

Step 2: Gather Required Documents
- Copy of your I-589 asylum application receipt notice
- Two passport-style photographs (2x2 inches)
- Copy of Form I-94 Arrival/Departure Record
- Copy of passport biographical page
- Previous EADs if applying for renewal
- Any USCIS correspondence about your asylum case

Step 3: Complete Form I-765
- Select eligibility category (c)(8) for pending asylum
- Provide accurate biographical information
- Include your A-Number (Alien Registration Number)
- Sign and date the form

Step 4: Pay Filing Fee or Request Fee Waiver
- Filing fee: $0 for initial asylum-based EAD (FREE)
- Renewal fee: $0 for asylum-based renewals (FREE)
- Biometrics fee: $85 (may be required)

Step 5: Submit Application
- Mail to appropriate USCIS lockbox (address varies by location)
- Keep copies of everything you submit
- Use certified mail with tracking for proof of delivery

Step 6: Attend Biometrics Appointment
- USCIS will mail you an appointment notice
- Bring appointment notice and photo ID
- Fingerprints and photo will be taken

Step 7: Receive EAD Decision
- Approval: EAD card mailed within 7-10 days
- RFE (Request for Evidence): Respond within deadline given
- Denial: Review reason and consult attorney about options

Common Mistakes Garden Grove Asylum Seekers Make:

1. Filing too early: Before 150 days have passed
2. Wrong eligibility category: Using (c)(9) instead of (c)(8)
3. Incomplete documentation: Missing asylum receipt or I-94
4. Address errors: USCIS cannot deliver EAD card
5. Missing biometrics: Failing to attend appointment

Our Garden Grove immigration team has filed thousands of I-765 applications for asylum seekers. We ensure every application is complete, accurate, and filed with the proper supporting evidence to maximize approval chances and minimize processing time.

Processing Times and Expedite Requests

Understanding current processing times and knowing when you can request expedited processing can make a significant difference in how quickly you receive your work permit.

Current USCIS Processing Times (as of February 2026):

- National Average: 3-8 months for I-765 asylum-based applications
- California Service Center: 4-7 months typical processing time
- Expedite Requests: 2-6 weeks if approved
- Renewal Applications: 2-5 months if filed timely

Factors Affecting Processing Time:

1. USCIS workload and staffing levels
2. Completeness of your application
3. Background check delays
4. USCIS office handling your case
5. Whether you qualify for expedited processing

Expedite Request Criteria:

USCIS may expedite your I-765 application if you can demonstrate:

1. Severe Financial Loss to Company or Person
- Job offer that will be withdrawn without EAD
- Risk of losing housing due to inability to work
- Imminent financial hardship affecting basic needs

2. Emergency Situation
- Urgent humanitarian reasons
- Compelling circumstances affecting vulnerable individuals

3. USCIS Error
- USCIS mistake caused unreasonable delay
- Lost application or processing error

4. Nonprofit Organization Request
- Request by organization furthering cultural or social interests

How to Request Expedited Processing:

Method 1: Call USCIS Contact Center
- Call 1-800-375-5283
- Explain your expedite criteria
- Reference your I-765 receipt number
- Be prepared to submit evidence

Method 2: Submit Online Through USCIS Account
- Create online account with your receipt number
- Select "Request Expedite" option
- Upload supporting documentation
- Monitor for USCIS response

Method 3: Contact USCIS Through Emma (Virtual Assistant)
- Access Emma at uscis.gov
- Type "expedite request"
- Follow prompts to submit request

Evidence Needed for Expedite Request:

| Expedite Reason | Supporting Documents |
|----------------|---------------------|
| Job offer | Employer letter, job offer with start date, proof of expertise |
| Financial hardship | Eviction notice, medical bills, utility shutoff notices |
| Medical emergency | Doctor's letter, medical records, treatment cost estimates |
| Humanitarian | Evidence of compelling circumstances, vulnerable family member documentation |

Success Rates for Expedite Requests:

- Expedite requests with strong evidence: 40-60% approval rate
- Requests without sufficient documentation: 10-20% approval rate
- Multiple expedite requests: Diminished success rate

For Garden Grove asylum seekers facing genuine hardship while waiting for work authorization, we prepare comprehensive expedite request packages with compelling evidence to maximize approval chances. We have successfully expedited hundreds of EAD applications for our Arab community clients.

EAD Renewal for Pending Asylum Cases

If your asylum case is still pending when your EAD expires, you must file for renewal to maintain continuous work authorization. Timing is critical to avoid gaps in employment eligibility.

EAD Renewal Timeline:

- Optimal Filing Time: 180 days (6 months) before current EAD expires
- Minimum Filing Time: 120 days before expiration recommended
- Latest Filing Time: Before current EAD expires (filing after expiration is allowed but creates work gap)

Automatic 180-Day Extension:

If you file your I-765 renewal at least 180 days before your current EAD expires, you may be eligible for an automatic 180-day extension if:

1. Your renewal is timely filed
2. Your EAD is in the same category (c)(8)
3. USCIS hasn't yet decided your renewal

This extension allows you to continue working with your expired EAD card and your I-765 receipt notice showing timely filing.

Required Documents for EAD Renewal:

1. Form I-765 completed and signed
2. Copy of current EAD (front and back)
3. Copy of asylum receipt notice (I-589)
4. Two passport photos
5. Filing fee: $0 for asylum-based renewals
6. Evidence of continued asylum pending status

Renewal Process Differences:

Unlike initial EAD applications, renewals typically:
- Process slightly faster (2-5 months average)
- May not require new biometrics (USCIS reuses previous)
- Have lower denial rates if properly filed
- Qualify for automatic extension if filed 180+ days early

Special Situations for Garden Grove Renewals:

Asylum Case Referred to Immigration Court:
- You remain eligible for EAD renewals
- Continue filing I-765 with category (c)(8)
- Include copy of court scheduling notice

Asylum Interview Scheduled:
- Renewal remains necessary if EAD expires before decision
- Interview scheduling does not affect EAD eligibility
- Continue renewals until asylum is granted or denied

Multiple Renewals Filed:
- If you've renewed multiple times, each renewal is treated independently
- Long-pending asylum cases may require 3-4+ EAD renewals
- Pattern of approvals makes future renewals more routine

Avoiding Work Gaps:

The most common problem for Garden Grove asylum seekers is work authorization gaps when:

1. Renewal filed too late (less than 180 days before expiration)
2. RFE not responded to promptly
3. Address change causes missed correspondence
4. Biometrics appointment missed or rescheduled

We monitor our clients' EAD expiration dates and send renewal reminders 6-7 months in advance to ensure timely filing and continuous work authorization throughout the asylum process.

Common Denials and How to Avoid Them

Understanding why I-765 applications get denied helps you avoid these pitfalls and ensures approval of your asylum-based work permit.

Top Reasons for I-765 Denial:

1. Filing Before 150 Days Elapsed (Most Common)

USCIS strictly enforces the 150-day waiting period. Many applicants miscalculate:
- Counting from wrong date (interview date instead of filing date)
- Not accounting for clock stoppages
- Filing just a few days too early

Solution: Have an immigration attorney calculate your exact 150-day period, accounting for any continuances or delays you caused.

2. Incomplete Form I-765

Missing information includes:
- Unsigned form
- Wrong eligibility category selected
- Missing A-Number
- Incorrect USCIS office codes

Solution: Review form line-by-line before submission. Have attorney review for accuracy.

3. Missing Supporting Documents

Required documents not submitted:
- No copy of I-589 receipt notice
- Missing passport photos
- No I-94 copy
- Previous EAD not included for renewal

Solution: Use detailed checklist of required documents. Make copies of everything before mailing.

4. Asylum Application Issues

Problems with underlying asylum case:
- Asylum application was incomplete or rejected
- Asylum was previously denied
- Asylum case was administratively closed

Solution: Verify asylum application status before filing I-765. Resolve any asylum application issues first.

5. Immigration Violations

Disqualifying immigration history:
- Prior fraud or misrepresentation
- Criminal convictions
- Frivolous asylum application
- Unlawful presence bar

Solution: Full consultation to review immigration history and identify any bars before filing.

6. Address Problems

USCIS unable to reach applicant:
- Outdated address on file
- Failure to update AR-11
- Wrong mailing address on I-765

Solution: Update address with USCIS immediately upon moving. Verify address accuracy on all forms.

RFE (Request for Evidence) Response Strategy:

If USCIS issues an RFE for your I-765:

1. Read carefully: Understand exactly what USCIS is requesting
2. Respond promptly: Deadline is typically 87 days, but respond within 30-60 days
3. Provide exactly what's requested: Don't send irrelevant documents
4. Include cover letter: Explain how each document addresses USCIS concerns
5. Keep copies: Maintain record of your RFE response

Denial Appeal Options:

If your I-765 is denied:

- Option 1: File a new I-765 application (if eligibility continues)
- Option 2: File Form I-290B Motion to Reopen/Reconsider (within 30 days)
- Option 3: Request supervisory review if denial was in error
- Option 4: Consult attorney about underlying asylum case strategy

For our Garden Grove Arab community clients, we conduct thorough case reviews before filing to identify and resolve any potential denial issues in advance. Our meticulous preparation results in over 95% approval rate for asylum-based EAD applications.

Working in Garden Grove with Your EAD

Once you receive your Employment Authorization Document, understanding how to use it effectively in the Garden Grove employment market is important.

Valid Employment Categories:

Your asylum-based EAD allows you to:
- Work for any employer in any industry
- Work full-time, part-time, or multiple jobs
- Start your own business
- Work as an independent contractor
- Change jobs without USCIS permission

Your EAD Does NOT Allow:
- Federal government employment (most positions)
- Jobs requiring security clearances
- Certain state-licensed professions (until licenses obtained)

Using Your EAD for Employment:

Step 1: Obtain Social Security Number
- Visit Social Security Administration office with EAD card
- Complete SS-5 application form
- Receive SSN card within 2-3 weeks

Step 2: Complete Form I-9 with Employer
- Present EAD card as proof of work authorization
- EAD satisfies both identity and work authorization requirements
- Employer will record document number and expiration date

Step 3: Monitor EAD Expiration
- Set reminder 6 months before expiration
- File renewal timely to qualify for 180-day extension
- Notify employer of automatic extension if applicable

Garden Grove Employment Opportunities:

The Garden Grove area offers diverse employment opportunities for Arabic-speaking EAD holders:

Healthcare Sector
- Medical interpreters (Arabic/English)
- Home healthcare aides
- Medical office staff
- Dental assistants

Hospitality and Food Service
- Restaurant management
- Catering services
- Hotel staff
- Food preparation

Retail and Sales
- Halal grocery stores
- Clothing retailers
- Phone and electronics shops
- Car sales

Small Business Opportunities
- Food trucks and catering
- Import/export businesses
- Real estate services
- Transportation services

Average Wages in Garden Grove (2026):

| Job Category | Average Hourly Wage |
|--------------|-------------------|
| Medical interpreter | $22-35/hour |
| Restaurant manager | $18-28/hour |
| Retail supervisor | $16-24/hour |
| Healthcare aide | $17-25/hour |
| Office administrator | $19-30/hour |

Professional Licensing Considerations:

Some professions require state licenses that may have additional requirements:
- Real estate agent license
- Nursing licenses
- Barbering and cosmetology licenses
- Contractor licenses

We can advise on which licenses are available to EAD holders and help you navigate the licensing process in California.

Impact of Asylum Decision on Your EAD

Understanding how your asylum case outcome affects your work authorization is critical for long-term planning.

Scenario 1: Asylum Granted

When USCIS or Immigration Court grants you asylum:

- Your asylum-based EAD becomes unnecessary
- You have indefinite work authorization as an asylee
- You can apply for a new EAD based on asylee status (no expiration date on card, but card expires)
- You can apply for a Refugee Travel Document
- After 1 year as asylee, you can apply for green card

Scenario 2: Asylum Denied by USCIS, Referred to Court

If USCIS does not grant asylum but refers your case to Immigration Court:

- Your EAD eligibility continues
- You can continue filing renewal applications
- Your (c)(8) work authorization remains valid
- You can continue working while case is in court
- Case may take 2-5 years in Immigration Court backlog

Scenario 3: Asylum Denied, Ordered Removed

If Immigration Judge denies asylum and orders removal:

- You can appeal to Board of Immigration Appeals (BIA)
- EAD eligibility continues during appeal period
- If removal order becomes final, EAD eligibility ends
- You must stop working when EAD expires
- Voluntary departure may be option

Scenario 4: Asylum Withdrawn or Abandoned

If you withdraw or abandon your asylum application:

- EAD eligibility immediately ends
- Current EAD remains valid until expiration date
- You cannot renew EAD
- Work authorization ends when current EAD expires

Alternative Forms of Relief:

If asylum is not granted, other options may provide work authorization:

1. Withholding of Removal: Similar protection to asylum, includes work authorization
2. Convention Against Torture (CAT) Protection: May include work authorization
3. Adjustment of Status: If eligible through family or other means
4. Temporary Protected Status (TPS): If available for your country
5. U Visa: For crime victims who assist law enforcement
6. VAWA: For victims of domestic violence

Planning for Different Outcomes:

We help Garden Grove asylum seekers prepare for various scenarios:

- Best case planning: Preparing for green card application after asylum approval
- Contingency planning: Identifying alternative relief forms if asylum uncertain
- Appeals strategy: Building strong appellate record if denial anticipated
- Family considerations: Ensuring derivative family members maintain status

Our comprehensive approach considers not just your immediate EAD needs but your long-term immigration strategy based on your asylum case's likely outcome.

Family Members and Derivative EAD Applications

If you have family members included in your asylum application, they may also be eligible for work authorization.

Who Qualifies as Derivative Asylum Applicants:

- Spouse: Your legally married husband or wife
- Unmarried children: Under 21 years old at time of asylum filing
- Children must be: In the United States and included in principal applicant's I-589

Derivative EAD Eligibility:

Derivative family members can apply for EAD if:
1. They were included in principal applicant's I-589 asylum application
2. 150 days have passed since the I-589 was filed
3. The principal applicant's asylum case is still pending
4. They remain in valid immigration status or have pending asylum

Filing for Derivative Family Member EADs:

Separate I-765 Applications Required:
- Each family member needs their own I-765 form
- Each application requires separate photos and documentation
- Filing fee: $0 for each derivative asylum-based EAD
- Can be mailed together in same envelope to USCIS

Required Documents for Derivative I-765:

1. Form I-765 for family member
2. Copy of principal applicant's I-589 receipt
3. Two passport photos of family member
4. Copy of family member's passport and I-94
5. Proof of relationship (marriage certificate for spouse, birth certificates for children)
6. Copy of principal applicant's EAD (if already issued)

Special Considerations for Children:

Aging Out Concerns:
- Children approaching 21 must be carefully monitored
- If child turns 21 before asylum is granted, they may lose derivative status
- CSPA (Child Status Protection Act) may help in some cases

Children Working:
- Minors can obtain EAD but face employment restrictions under labor laws
- Most children wait until 16+ to seek employment
- Work permits useful for college students and part-time work

Spouses Working:
- No restrictions on spouse employment with valid EAD
- Spouses can work in any field
- Having both spouses work authorized helps family financial stability

Timing Strategies for Families:

Strategy 1: File All Together
- Submit principal and derivative I-765s simultaneously
- Family receives EADs around same timeframe
- Simplifies tracking and renewal schedules

Strategy 2: Stagger Applications
- File principal applicant first to establish approval pattern
- File derivative applications after principal approval
- May be useful if documentation concerns exist

Strategy 3: Renew on Same Schedule
- Align renewal dates by filing all renewals together
- Maintains family work authorization continuity
- Reduces administrative burden of tracking multiple dates

Common Issues for Garden Grove Families:

1. Children born in U.S.: U.S. citizen children don't need EAD (already have work authorization at 16+)
2. Spouses with separate cases: If spouse has independent asylum claim, may file separately
3. Family member abroad: Cannot file I-765 until they enter U.S. and are added to asylum case
4. Divorced during process: Former spouse loses derivative eligibility
5. Child marries: Loses derivative eligibility even if under 21

We help Garden Grove Arab families coordinate all family member EAD applications to ensure the entire family has continuous work authorization throughout the asylum process.

Legal Assistance for Garden Grove Asylum EAD Applications

While it's possible to file Form I-765 without an attorney, professional assistance significantly increases approval likelihood and reduces processing delays.

Why Hire SoCal Immigration Services:

1. Expertise in Asylum-Based EAD
- Thousands of successful I-765 applications filed
- Deep understanding of USCIS processing and requirements
- Knowledge of common pitfalls specific to asylum EAD
- Familiarity with California Service Center procedures

2. Accurate 150-Day Calculations
- Proper calculation of filing dates accounting for clock stoppages
- Prevention of premature filing denials
- Analysis of continuances and their impact on EAD eligibility

3. Complete Documentation
- Thorough checklist ensuring all required documents included
- Proper formatting and organization of application package
- High-quality passport photos meeting USCIS specifications

4. Expedite Request Preparation
- Assessment of expedite eligibility
- Gathering compelling evidence for expedite requests
- Professional presentation of hardship documentation

5. Bilingual Arabic Services
- Arabic-speaking attorneys and staff
- Cultural understanding of Arab community needs
- Translation services for supporting documents

6. Comprehensive Case Management
- Tracking of application status
- Monitoring for USCIS correspondence
- EAD renewal reminders sent automatically
- Coordination with underlying asylum case strategy

Our Service Packages:

Basic I-765 Filing Package - $500
- Form I-765 preparation and filing
- Document checklist and review
- Receipt notice follow-up

Comprehensive EAD Package - $800
- Everything in Basic Package
- Detailed 150-day calculation analysis
- Expedite request if eligible
- RFE response included (if issued)
- 6-month free consultation included

Family Package (Principal + Derivatives) - $1,200
- I-765 for principal applicant
- I-765 for up to 3 derivative family members
- Coordinated filing strategy
- All family member renewals tracked

What to Bring to Your Consultation:

1. Copy of I-589 asylum application and receipt notice
2. Current passport and I-94
3. Any prior EAD cards
4. All USCIS correspondence about your asylum case
5. Family member documents (if applicable)
6. Questions about your specific situation

Why Garden Grove Clients Choose Us:

- Convenient location: Easy access from Garden Grove, Westminster, Santa Ana
- Flexible appointments: Evening and weekend consultations available
- Transparent pricing: No hidden fees, payment plans available
- Proven track record: 95%+ approval rate for EAD applications
- Community reputation: Trusted by Garden Grove Arab community since 2015

What Happens Without Proper Legal Help:

Common problems faced by DIY filers:
- 6-12 month delays from preventable errors
- Denials requiring refiling and restarting process
- Missed expedite opportunities
- Work gaps affecting family finances
- Stress and uncertainty about application status

Contact Us Today:

Don't risk delays in your work authorization. Call (714) 421-8872 to schedule your consultation with our Garden Grove asylum EAD specialists. We'll review your case, calculate your exact eligibility date, and prepare a complete I-765 application package for timely USCIS approval.

Office Hours:
- Monday-Friday: 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM
- Saturday: 10:00 AM - 3:00 PM
- Sunday: By appointment

Location:
Serving Garden Grove, Westminster, Fountain Valley, Santa Ana, and all of Orange County.

Languages Spoken:
English, Arabic, Spanish, Vietnamese

We understand the financial stress of being unable to work while waiting for asylum. Let us help you obtain your EAD quickly so you can provide for your family and rebuild your life in Garden Grove.

FAQFrequently Asked Questions

Q:How long after filing asylum can I apply for work permit?

A: You can apply for an EAD 150 days after filing your complete I-589 asylum application with USCIS. This is a mandatory waiting period, and filing even one day early will result in denial. We help calculate your exact filing date accounting for any clock stoppages.

Q:Is the I-765 filing fee free for asylum seekers?

A: Yes, there is no filing fee for initial asylum-based EAD applications or renewals. However, USCIS may charge an $85 biometrics fee, though this is often waived for asylum applicants. This makes asylum EAD one of the few free immigration benefits.

Q:How long does it take to get asylum work permit in 2026?

A: Current processing times for I-765 asylum EAD applications range from 3-8 months nationally, with California Service Center averaging 4-7 months. If you qualify for expedited processing due to financial hardship or other compelling circumstances, approval can come in 2-6 weeks.

Q:Can I travel outside US while my asylum EAD is pending?

A: Traveling outside the U.S. while your asylum application is pending will cause USCIS to consider your asylum application abandoned, which will terminate your EAD eligibility. Do not travel internationally while your asylum case is pending unless you have a Refugee Travel Document.

Q:What happens to my work permit if asylum is denied?

A: If USCIS denies your asylum and refers your case to Immigration Court, your EAD eligibility continues and you can keep renewing. If an Immigration Judge denies asylum, you can continue working during your appeal period. Only when a final removal order is issued does EAD eligibility end.

Q:Can my spouse and children get work permits too?

A: Yes, your spouse and unmarried children under 21 who are included in your I-589 asylum application can each file their own I-765 for work authorization. They must wait the same 150 days and file separate applications, but the fee is also $0 for derivative family members.

Q:Can I renew my EAD if asylum interview is scheduled?

A: Yes, you can and should renew your EAD if it will expire before your asylum decision, even if an interview is scheduled. Having an interview scheduled does not affect your EAD eligibility. Continue renewing until your asylum case is decided.

Q:What if I filed asylum more than a year ago and never got EAD?

A: You can file for an EAD at any time while your asylum case is pending, as long as 150 days have passed since filing. Many asylum seekers don't realize they're eligible and wait years unnecessarily. Contact us immediately to file your I-765 if you have a pending asylum case.

Disclaimer: This article provides general information about immigration services in Garden Grove 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: February 16, 2026Last Updated: February 16, 2026

Get Professional Help Today

Our experienced team is ready to assist you with your immigration needs.

Serving Garden Grove and all of Southern California

Schedule a Consultation (714) 421-8872

asylum•El Cajon