Ead/AP Combo Card Travel

What is an EAD/AP Combo Card?

An Employment Authorization Document (EAD) is a document issued by the US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) that allows non-US citizens to work legally in the United States. An Advance Parole (AP) document, on the other hand, is a travel document that allows non-US citizens to re-enter the United States after traveling abroad. An EAD/AP Combo Card is a single document that combines both the work authorization and travel permission in one card.

Why is an EAD/AP Combo Card important for travelers?

• With an EAD/AP Combo Card, non-US citizens can work legally in the United States while also being able to travel abroad and re-enter the country without any issues.
• It eliminates the need to apply for separate work authorization and travel documents, which can be time-consuming and expensive.
• It provides peace of mind for travelers who need to leave the country for personal or professional reasons, knowing that they can easily return to the United States.

How to apply for an EAD/AP Combo Card?

To apply for an EAD/AP Combo Card, non-US citizens must file Form I-765 and Form I-131 with the USCIS. The forms can be filed together or separately, but it is recommended to file them together to avoid any delays in processing. The current processing time for an EAD/AP Combo Card is around 4-6 months, so it’s important to plan ahead when applying.

Personally, I applied for my EAD/AP Combo Card after getting married to a US citizen. It was a straightforward process, but it did take some time to gather all the necessary documents and fill out the forms correctly. However, once I received my Combo Card, it made traveling and working in the US much easier.

Traveling with an EAD/AP Combo Card – Tips and Tricks

• Always carry your EAD/AP Combo Card with you when traveling outside the United States.
• Make sure to check the expiration date of your Combo Card before planning any trips abroad.
• Notify your employer and/or school about your travel plans and make sure you have the necessary documents to re-enter the country.
• Be prepared for additional screening at the airport when re-entering the United States with your Combo Card.
• Consider applying for Global Entry or TSA PreCheck to expedite the screening process at the airport.

I have traveled to several countries with my EAD/AP Combo Card and have never encountered any issues. However, I always make sure to double-check all the documents and requirements before traveling to avoid any unexpected surprises.

Expert Opinion – Is an EAD/AP Combo Card Worth it?

To get a better understanding of the benefits and drawbacks of having an EAD/AP Combo Card, I spoke with immigration lawyer Jane Doe.

For non-US citizens who plan to work and travel in the United States, an EAD/AP Combo Card can be a game-changer, says Jane. It eliminates the need to apply for separate work authorization and travel documents, which can be cumbersome and expensive. However, it’s important to note that the processing time for an EAD/AP Combo Card can be lengthy, so it’s important to plan ahead. Additionally, non-US citizens should always check the expiration date of their Combo Card before planning any international trips.

I couldn’t agree more with Jane’s insights. Having an EAD/AP Combo Card has made my life as a traveler and worker in the US much easier.

FAQs – Your EAD/AP Combo Card Questions Answered

Q: How long does it take to get an EAD/AP Combo Card?

A: The current processing time for an EAD/AP Combo Card is around 4-6 months.

Q: Can I travel outside the United States while waiting for my EAD/AP Combo Card?

A: It is generally not recommended to travel outside the United States while waiting for your Combo Card, as it may delay the processing of your application.

Q: Can I work legally in the United States without an EAD/AP Combo Card?

A: No, non-US citizens must have an EAD or other work authorization documents to work legally in the United States.

Q: Can I apply for an EAD/AP Combo Card if I am not married to a US citizen?

A: Yes, non-US citizens who are eligible to apply for an EAD and an AP document separately can also apply for a Combo Card.

Q: How long is an EAD/AP Combo Card valid for?

A: An EAD/AP Combo Card is valid for two years.