As the spouse of a U.S. citizen, our client filed Form I-130 (Petition for Alien Relative) to establish the qualifying relationship, along with Form I-485 (Adjustment of Status) for the green card and Form I-765 for the Employment Authorization Document (EAD) to work legally while processing. We provided consultation about EAD processing and various aspect of existing filings.
FREE
Consultation
September 2025
Online
Concurrent filing allows you to submit Form I-130 (Petition for Alien Relative) and Form I-485 (Application to Adjust Status) at the same time, rather than waiting for I-130 approval first. This option also lets you file Forms I-765 (for EAD) and I-131 (for advance parole) simultaneously, enabling you to apply for work and travel permissions while your green card processes. It’s efficient for immediate relatives like our client, potentially shortening overall timelines.
As of November 2025, median processing times for Form I-765 (EAD) under category (c)(9) for adjustment applicants range from 4-8 months, varying by USCIS service center (e.g., 4-6 months at the National Benefits Center, 5-7 months at Texas, and up to 7-9 months at California). Check your receipt notice for the assigned center and monitor your case status online for personalized updates, as times can fluctuate with workload or RFEs. Expedite requests are possible in urgent cases, like job offers or financial hardship.
Client is legally allowed to work in the U.S. only after USCIS approves the Form I-765 and issues the EAD card, which typically takes 4-8 months but grants unrestricted employment for its validity period (usually 1-2 years). Without the EAD or another valid work authorization (e.g., from prior status), client cannot start working while client’s I-485 is pending to avoid violating immigration rules. Once received, present the EAD to employers as proof, and renew it if your green card isn’t approved before it expires.
Scheduling a live consultation with our experienced immigration attorneys provides personalized guidance to navigate the complexities of immigration law with confidence. Our attorneys offer tailored advice based on your unique situation, whether you're applying for a visa, seeking permanent residency, or addressing deportation concerns, ensuring you receive accurate insights from professionals well-versed in the latest regulations. With flexible scheduling for virtual or in-person appointments, we help you save time, avoid costly mistakes, and develop a strategic plan in a secure, confidential environment to achieve your immigration goals efficiently.
