Can someone explain the exact purpose of EAD?

[Novio 0]

I'm applying for adjustment of status for my fiancee and I definately would like her to work at some point but I'm wondering exactly what is the EAD? Is it just a temporary work permission until you get the green card? and how long does getting a green card take if that is true?

[Craig2006 0]

Yes, the EAD gives you temporary permission to work until you get the green card.

The time it takes to get a Green Crad depends on your local USCIS office. You can conduct a search on the sight to get a general idea (some are faster than others).

[shirlJ831 0]

I got my EAD card shortly after arriving in the US that allowed me to go to work right away, later I got my PR card.

[hcj 0]

I think you mean you are applying for AOS for your spouse. Fiances cannot adjust status until after the marriage.

I make the distinction because both K-1 fiances and subsequently, your spouse filing for AOS are both entitled to EAD. Make sure you mark on form I-765 that you are applying for EAD under the spouse/AOS category. If you mark K-1 they will take your money and then issue her an EAD that is only good for the first 90 days, which is not what you want.

EAD = employment authorization document. With it and a SSN, your new spouse may accept employment. It's usually good for one year after which, if she has not gotten her GC yet, she will need to renew it if she wishes to continue working. After she gets her GC she will not need EAD.

IMHO even if she is not planning on working, it is good to get an EAD. It will be the only photo ID she has from USCIS which shows she is here legally. In my experience it made dealing with all other government agencies much, much easier. DMV/drivers license is a typical example -- in many states she will not be able to get a state ID card or drivers license until she can show an EAD.

As for how long it takes to get a GC, it depends on how fast your local district office is. Look on the "processing times" and "immigration timelines" links at the top of the page. Remember that these are just estimates and your individual case could be faster or slower. My office was supposed to be taking around ten months but it took us 21 months because of background checks not clearing in a timely manner.

Good luck!

EDITED for typos

Edited June 19, 2006 by hcj