How Long Does It Take To Get OPT EAD Card?

how long does it take to get OPT card , OPT EAD card processing time

The capacity to work in the US is very essential for many immigrants that generally need a little earnings to get by and usually have folks to help. Nevertheless, when using for visas or maybe a green card you can’t begin working until the software have been approved, which may take as much as a season or perhaps even more time. The applicant is meanwhile caught in limbo not able to work unless you are able to buy an Employment Authorization Document (EAD), or maybe Form I-765.

With an EAD, immigrants are able to do the job legally while their visa is actually processing. I have published this article to teach you exactly how to apply for a type I-765, which means you are able to get to do the job instantly. How long does it take to get OPT card? – A question which arises in many international students applying for the F1 visa work permit status in USA.

Applying for OPT

  • Firstly, request the School DSO to provide your OPT recommendation letter by endorsing your Form I‑20. Also making the appropriate notation in the SEVIS.
  • Properly file Form I-765 with USCIS, accompanied by the required fee and the supporting documentation.
  • Your application must be received by USCIS within 30 days of the signed Form I-20.

READ: How to apply for OPT Application? | Guide to International Students

What’s I-765 Form?

I-765 Form is actually a request for an EAD, generally referred to as a work permit. The EAD provides legitimate evidence of employment authorization. In case you get an EAD, then you definitely are going to have to show it to employers when you’re searching for a job.

How to apply for I-765 form?

I-765 most work permit applicants publish their Form I-765 at the exact same time as the green card of theirs or maybe visa program, so they are able to work while the software is now being processed. You are able to fill out the Form I-765 and also include it within your green card program packet along with 2 passport sized photos. Additionally, whenever you file your 765 at the exact same time as your green card you don’t have to spend the application rate.

In case you’re submitting your Form I-765 after your green card program, then you have to add a message of the green card program receipt notice you have from the USCIS.

I-765 Required Documents

You need to submit the following documents along with your I-765:

  • Two passport-style photos
  • Copy of your US visa
  • Printout of your I-94 travel record
  • Copy of the photo page of your passport

I-765 Filing Fee

The OPT EAD processing fee for submitting a Form I-765 is $410, and you must include a check or money order with this amount in the I-765 submission.

When to apply for OPT?

It’s important that you apply for the OPT work authorization in advance with the OPT start date. You can apply up to 90 days before completion of studies at the earliest and no later than 60 days after. If you are a doctoral student, apply no later than 60 days beyond the last day of the month in which you submit the dissertation.

What happens in case you Work without EAD?

You have to obtain a legitimate work permit to operate in the US, unless you’re in the US on an employment based visa. In case you’re looking for an EAD while patiently waiting for the visa of yours or maybe purple card to process, consequently operating without a permit is able to lead to the rejection of the application of yours.

How long does it take to get OPT card?

From point of approval, USCIS says the OPT EAD card processing time can take 30 days beyond to receive your EAD card; however, most cards arrive within 7-10 days after approval. In total, it is likely for your OPT application to take 90-120 days. You may establish an account with USCIS (USCIS Account).

OPT Application Process-

  1. Mail your OPT application, I-765 to USCIS.
  2. After the I-765 Is Received by USCIS, you should receive confirmation of submission via text or email. This includes receipt number, which you can use to check your OPT status online.
  3. You will receive an I-797 receipt notice at your email address confirming the date of receipt and your receipt number. (Important)
  4. You should receive an I-797 Notice of Approval letter and EAD card at your mailing address.

What if your OPT EAD processing time for application is taking too long?

USCIS takes about 110-120 days from the day of receipt to getting the EAD card in hand.

USCIS will not accept a case status complaint until an EAD application (Form I-765) has been pending for over 75 days. After that, you can submit a status request by calling USCIS at 1 (800) 375-5283.

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