Department of Homeland Security
USCIS Launches an Online PDF Filing Option for Certain EAD Applicants
Earlier this month, USCIS introduced a new PDF filing option for certain applicants seeking an Employment Authorization Document (“EAD”). Applicants and their representatives are now able to upload their Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization and their supporting documents in PDF format using their USCIS online account. These filed applications will have case management functionalities including case status updates and decision notices, similar to cases filed with USCIS by mail. USCIS is planning further expansion of the PDF filing option for additional case types as part of its initiative to modernize the U.S. immigration system and implement accessible services for applicants. Continue to monitor Immigration Insights for the latest updates on USCIS’s new initiatives.
USCIS Grants Automatic Extension for Green Card Renewals
As of September 10, 2024, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (“USCIS”) began automatically increasing the validity of Permanent Resident Card (“Green Cards”) for 36 months for lawful permanent residents who properly file Form I-90 to renew an expiring or expired Green Card. Form I-90 receipt notices for applications filed before September 10th previously provided for a 24-month extension of Green Card validity. The language on Form I-90 receipt notices has now been updated to reflect the extended validity of Green Cards for 36 months from the date of expiration listed on the Green Card and USCIS will be issuing amended receipt notices for individuals with pending Form I-90s filed before September 10th. The receipt notices may be presented with an expired Green Card as evidence of continued status validity and employment authorization. This temporary change comes as USCIS seeks to increase efficiency and reduce agency-wide backlogs as part of several initiatives to streamline the U.S. immigration system. Contact immigration counsel for assistance with filing Green Card renewal applications or for assistance with I-9 documentation guidance to ensure compliance with government requirements.
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