SoCal Immigration Services | Immigration Document Preparation in Southern California

Quick Answer

If you have filed Form I-485 for adjustment of status in La Verne and need to work while waiting for your green card, you can apply for an Employment Authorization Document (EAD). SoCal Immigration Services helps La Verne residents navigate the EAD application process to maintain employment during the green card waiting period.

Reviewed for accuracy by

Maria Santos

DOJ Accredited Representative • 15+ years experience

What is an Employment Authorization Document (EAD)?

An Employment Authorization Document (EAD) is a card issued by USCIS that proves you are authorized to work in the United States. For La Verne residents with pending I-485 applications:

Key Features:
• Permits employment with any U.S. employer
• Valid as proof of identity and work authorization (List A document for I-9)
• Typically valid for 2 years
• Can be renewed while I-485 remains pending
• No restrictions on job type or employer changes

Important Note:
• The EAD is separate from your pending green card application
• Having an EAD does not guarantee green card approval
• You must maintain lawful status while your case is pending

Who Qualifies for I-485-Based EAD?

La Verne residents can apply for an EAD if they have a pending I-485 in these categories:

•Family-based green card applicants (immediate relatives, preference categories)
•Employment-based green card applicants (EB-1, EB-2, EB-3, EB-4, EB-5)
•Diversity Visa lottery winners adjusting status
•Asylum applicants with approved asylum who filed I-485
•Refugees adjusting to permanent resident status
•VAWA self-petitioners with pending I-485
•Special Immigrant categories (religious workers, certain juveniles)
•Registry applicants under INA 249
•Cuban Adjustment Act applicants

EAD Processing Times for La Verne Applicants

Current processing times for I-485-based EAD applications:

Processing Stage	Timeline	Notes
Receipt Notice	2-3 weeks	Confirms USCIS received application
Biometrics Notice	3-6 weeks	Scheduled at local ASC
EAD Approval	3-6 months	Current average processing
Card Production	1-2 weeks	After approval
Card Delivery	5-7 days	USPS delivery to address

How to Apply for I-485-Based EAD

Follow these steps to apply for your EAD in La Verne:

1
File Form I-485 First
Your I-485 must be pending before filing for EAD. You can file I-765 concurrently with I-485.
2
Complete Form I-765
Fill out the Application for Employment Authorization accurately. Use category (c)(9) for I-485 applicants.
3
Gather Supporting Documents
Collect required photos, ID copies, and evidence of pending I-485.
4
Submit Application
File online through USCIS account or mail to appropriate lockbox.
5
Attend Biometrics Appointment
USCIS will schedule fingerprinting at nearest Application Support Center.
6
Wait for Approval and Card
Monitor case status online. EAD card will be mailed upon approval.

Required Documents for EAD Application

La Verne applicants must submit these documents:

•Form I-765 (Application for Employment Authorization)
•Two passport-style photos (2x2 inches, recent)
•Copy of I-485 receipt notice (Form I-797C)
•Copy of government-issued photo ID
•Copy of passport biographical page
•Copy of most recent I-94 arrival record
•Copy of current immigration status document
•Copy of previous EAD (if renewal)
•Filing fee or fee waiver request (if applicable)

Filing Fees and Fee Waivers

Understanding the costs for I-485-based EAD applications:

Filing Fee:
• No separate fee when filed with I-485 (included in I-485 fee)
• No fee for initial EAD or renewals if I-485-based
• This applies to category (c)(9) applicants

Fee Waiver Eligibility:
• Some applicants may qualify for I-912 fee waiver
• Based on household income below 150% of poverty guidelines
• Receipt of means-tested benefits
• Financial hardship documentation

Important:
• Verify current fee requirements on USCIS website
• Fees change periodically
• Incorrect fees cause rejection and delays

EAD Categories for I-485 Applicants

Understanding the correct EAD category code:

Category Code	Description	Eligibility
(c)(9)	Adjustment applicant	Pending I-485 all types
(c)(10)	Asylum applicant	Pending asylum + I-485
(a)(7)	N-400 applicant	Naturalization pending
(a)(12)	TPS holder	Temporary Protected Status

What Happens After EAD Approval?

Once your EAD is approved in La Verne:

Using Your EAD:
• Present to any employer for I-9 verification
• No need to inform employer of pending green card
• Can work for any employer, change jobs freely
• Self-employment permitted

Maintaining Status:
• Keep I-485 application pending and valid
• Report address changes to USCIS within 10 days
• Maintain eligibility for underlying green card category
• Attend all USCIS appointments

Getting a Social Security Number:
• Apply at local SSA office with EAD
• May have applied with I-485 (check box on form)
• SSN card will say 'Valid for work with DHS authorization'

Renewing Your EAD Before It Expires

La Verne residents should plan ahead for EAD renewal:

When to Renew:
• File 180 days (6 months) before expiration
• Up to 540-day automatic extension if filed timely
• Don't let EAD expire without filing renewal

Automatic Extension Rules:
• Applies to (c)(9) category EADs
• Must file renewal before current EAD expires
• Automatic extension up to 540 days
• Use expired EAD + I-797C receipt as proof

Renewal Process:
• Same Form I-765
• Same supporting documents
• Mark as renewal application
• No fee for I-485-based renewals

EAD vs. Continuing Current Work Authorization

Considerations for La Verne workers with existing work visas:

H-1B, L-1, O-1 Workers:
• Can maintain current visa status while I-485 pending
• Using EAD may abandon H/L/O status
• Losing visa status means relying solely on pending I-485
• Consider risks before switching to EAD

Benefits of Keeping Visa Status:
• Backup if I-485 denied
• Spouse may have dependent status benefits
• Easier to change employers with some visa types

Benefits of Using EAD:
• No employer restrictions
• Can change jobs freely
• No need to maintain visa requirements

Common EAD Application Issues

Avoid these problems when applying for your EAD:

•Incorrect category code (must be (c)(9) for I-485 applicants)
•Missing or outdated photos
•Name mismatch between forms
•Missing I-485 receipt notice copy
•Incomplete form sections
•Not signing the form
•Wrong USCIS filing location
•Missing biometrics appointment
•Not tracking application status
•Failing to file renewal timely

La Verne EAD Services We Provide

SoCal Immigration Services assists La Verne residents with:

•Initial EAD application with I-485
•Standalone EAD applications for pending cases
•EAD renewal applications
•Expedite requests for urgent situations
•RFE response preparation
•Case status inquiries and follow-up
•Combo Card applications (EAD + Advance Parole)
•Arabic language document support

FAQFrequently Asked Questions

Q:Is there a fee for the EAD if I already filed I-485?

A: No, there is no separate filing fee for Form I-765 (EAD) when you file based on a pending I-485 adjustment of status application. The fee is included in the I-485 filing fee. This applies to both initial applications and renewals.

Q:How long does it take to get an EAD after filing I-485?

A: Currently, EAD processing for I-485 applicants takes approximately 3-6 months. If you file Form I-765 concurrently with I-485 and request a Combo Card, you may receive both work and travel authorization in one document.

Q:Can I work for any employer with an I-485-based EAD?

A: Yes, the (c)(9) EAD for I-485 applicants provides open-market employment authorization. You can work for any employer, change jobs freely, and even be self-employed. There are no restrictions on employer or occupation.

Q:What happens if my EAD expires before my green card is approved?

A: You should file Form I-765 for renewal at least 180 days before expiration. Under current rules, you receive an automatic extension of up to 540 days if you file timely. Use your expired EAD plus the renewal receipt notice as proof of continued work authorization.

Q:Can I use my EAD to get a driver's license in California?

A: Yes, California DMV accepts a valid EAD as proof of legal presence for driver's license purposes. Bring your EAD, passport, proof of California residency, and Social Security card to the DMV.

Q:Should I switch from H-1B to EAD when my I-485 is pending?

A: This depends on your situation. Using EAD while I-485 is pending may abandon your H-1B status. If your I-485 is denied, you would have no backup status. Consult with an immigration professional to evaluate risks and benefits for your specific case.

Q:Can my employer fire me for having an EAD instead of a green card?

A: No, it is illegal for employers to discriminate based on immigration status as long as you are authorized to work. Your EAD provides the same work authorization as any other document. Employers cannot require a green card when an EAD is sufficient.

Q:What if I need to travel while waiting for my EAD?

A: An EAD does not authorize travel. You need Advance Parole (Form I-131) or a valid visa to travel and return. Many applicants file for a Combo Card that combines EAD and Advance Parole in one document.

Disclaimer: This article provides general information about immigration services in La Verne 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 26, 2026Last Updated: January 26, 2026

Need Work Authorization While Your Green Card is Pending?

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I-485 Employment Authorization Document in La Verne: Work While Your Green Card is Pending