SoCal Immigration Services | Immigration Document Preparation in Southern California

Quick Answer

Work permit holders in Santa Clarita should file Form I-765 for EAD renewal at least 180 days before expiration to ensure continuous work authorization and potentially receive automatic extensions.

Reviewed for accuracy by

Maria Santos

DOJ Accredited Representative • 15+ years experience

For immigrants in Santa Clarita with expiring Employment Authorization Documents (EAD), timely renewal is essential to maintain legal work status. SoCal Immigration Services helps families navigate the I-765 renewal process with Arabic-speaking support.

Understanding EAD Renewal

Your Employment Authorization Document (EAD) allows you to work legally in the United States. When it approaches expiration, you must file Form I-765 to renew it. Failing to renew on time can result in:

• Loss of work authorization
• Employment termination
• Gap in employment history
• Potential impact on your underlying immigration case

When to File for EAD Renewal

Timeline for EAD renewal:

Timeframe	Action	Importance
180 days before expiration	File I-765 renewal	May qualify for automatic extension
90-180 days before	File renewal ASAP	Processing time concerns
30-90 days before	Expedite request may be needed	Risk of gap in authorization
After expiration	Cannot work legally	Must stop work until approved
No gap in filing	Continuous employment	No interruption in work

Automatic EAD Extension (Up to 540 Days)

Certain categories qualify for automatic 540-day extensions when:

• You file renewal before your current EAD expires
• Your new application is for the same category as expiring EAD
• Your category is on the list of eligible categories
• You have the receipt notice for your pending renewal

Eligible categories include: adjustment of status (c)(9), asylum pending (c)(8), refugee (a)(3), TPS (a)(12), and others.

EAD Categories and Codes

Common EAD categories requiring renewal:

•(c)(9): Adjustment of Status pending (I-485)
•(c)(8): Asylum application pending
•(a)(3): Refugee
•(a)(5): Asylee
•(a)(12): Temporary Protected Status (TPS)
•(c)(10): Suspension of deportation/cancellation pending
•(c)(14): Deferred Action
•(a)(18): Final order of deportation being reviewed

I-765 Renewal Requirements

Documents needed for EAD renewal:

•Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization
•Copy of your current or expired EAD (front and back)
•Two passport-style photos
•Copy of valid government-issued ID
•Filing fee ($410) or fee waiver request (I-912)
•Evidence supporting your eligibility category
•Any documents showing change in circumstances

Filing Process

Steps to renew your EAD:

1
Gather Documents
Collect current EAD, photos, ID, and supporting evidence
2
Complete Form I-765
Fill out application marking it as a renewal
3
Pay Filing Fee
$410 or request fee waiver if eligible
4
Submit Application
Mail to appropriate USCIS lockbox for your location
5
Receive Receipt
Use receipt for auto-extension if eligible
6
Complete Biometrics
Attend appointment if required
7
Receive New EAD
New card mailed upon approval

Using Auto-Extension for Employment

To use your auto-extension at work:

• Show employer your I-797C receipt notice
• Provide your expired EAD
• Explain auto-extension rules (540-day maximum)
• Employer can verify via E-Verify or I-9
• Keep copies of all documents
• Monitor your case status online

What Employers Should Know

Information for Santa Clarita employers:

•Auto-extensions are valid for I-9 purposes
•Receipt notice + expired EAD = valid work authorization
•Cannot discriminate against employees using auto-extension
•Should update I-9 when new EAD received
•Can verify through E-Verify
•Auto-extension is 540 days or until decision, whichever is first

If Your EAD Already Expired

If your EAD has expired:

• You cannot work legally until you receive a new EAD
• File I-765 immediately
• Consider requesting expedited processing
• Explain gap to your employer
• Some employers may place you on leave
• Once new EAD is approved, you can resume work

Expedite Requests

You may request expedited EAD processing if you have:

• Severe financial loss to company or individual
• Emergency situation
• USCIS error causing delay
• Compelling humanitarian reason
• Nonprofit organization with urgent need
• U.S. government interest

Santa Clarita Work Permit Services

SoCal Immigration Services helps Santa Clarita residents with:

•I-765 EAD renewal application preparation
•Determining auto-extension eligibility
•Fee waiver applications (I-912)
•Expedite request preparation
•Employment verification assistance
•Arabic and English speaking staff

FAQFrequently Asked Questions

Q:How long before my EAD expires should I renew?

A: File at least 180 days before expiration to qualify for automatic extension. This gives you the best protection against gaps in work authorization.

Q:How long does EAD renewal take?

A: Current processing times are typically 3-6 months, but can be longer. The 540-day auto-extension helps bridge the gap during processing.

Q:Can I work with just the receipt notice?

A: If you qualify for auto-extension (filed on time, same category), yes. Show your employer the receipt notice plus your expired EAD. They can accept this for I-9 purposes.

Q:What if my underlying case category changed?

A: If your category changed (e.g., from asylum pending to asylee), you may not qualify for auto-extension. File well before expiration and explain the category change.

Q:Can I travel while my EAD renewal is pending?

A: The EAD itself doesn't authorize travel. Check your underlying status. If you have advance parole or valid visa, you may be able to travel. Consult before traveling.

Q:Do I need a new EAD if I got my green card?

A: No, green card holders don't need an EAD. Your green card is proof of work authorization. You can stop the EAD renewal process if your green card is approved.

Disclaimer: This article provides general information about immigration services in Santa Clarita 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 11, 2026Last Updated: January 11, 2026

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I-765 Work Permit Renewal in Santa Clarita: EAD Renewal and Extension Guide