EAD and AP Approved after 161 days! (no RFEs)

[BabyTruong 1]

I wanted to share my experience with everyone in Visa Journey, especially those waiting for their EAD and AP! It's been a SUPER frustrating process of waiting and not knowing  I didn't get any RFE and I waited 161 days for my approval!!! (Check my timeline for more info)

Today, I CRIED! But it was happy tears!! I can finally (possibly) go home for Christmas!! Today, I checked my USIS online status, no change was made, still showing USIS received my applications as of June 29th. I decided to call USIS because my online status shows that I (supposedly) received a response for my second SR dated December 5th. The odd thing was I never received an e-mail so I decided to call in. The representative advised me that the response was via phone call instead of e-mail (odd because my phone shows no missed calls on December 5th). She couldn't tell me what the response was, but offered to make another SR. I, of course, would not want to wait another 30+ days for a response so I asked for a tier 2 representative. She transferred me and I was prompt to request a call back because the wait time was over 170 minutes to speak to someone. I received a call about two hours later, and I was told that my EAD and AP has been APPROVED and it's getting printed as of December 8th!!! Hopefully I can get it within the week or so!!!

 

It's definitely a long process and here are some of my tips to help with yours! This includes personal tips and tips from reading different forums!

 

- Officer actually told me that their applications have tripled this year, so the wait is much longer

- Due to the increase of applications, the online status doesn't get updated 

-Definitely make a case inquiry if your case has been pending for 90+ days (mine took about 30+ days to get a response...my first SR was raised in September)

-I've tried to contact my congresswomen via e-mail but I never received a response - But make sure you try e-mailing them! They may be able to help!

-To get to a representative, dial the USIS number, then press 2 2 2 - It'll get you straight to a rep!

-If they decline to transfer you to a tier 2 officer, hang up and speak with a different rep!

-Try expediting your case - either through a job offer or financial difficulties

[TNJ17 1,329]

Do you mean USCIS?

[Sunnyland 639]

Congratulations. Before you go home for Xmas, make sure you receive the actual AP-EAD in hand before leaving the country. 

[BabyTruong 1]

2 hours ago, TNJ17 said:

Do you mean USCIS?

Oops! Yes

2 hours ago, Sunnyland said:

Congratulations. Before you go home for Xmas, make sure you receive the actual AP-EAD in hand before leaving the country. 

Thank you!! I just got my approval letter (NOA) can’t wait to receive my card!!