My L2 EAD experience and how I got it without a biometrics appointment - Mission One Accomplished

**Update (05/05/2017) - Filing fee for form I-765 is now $410

I recently got my L2 EAD approved from USCIS. It took over 2 months for the entire process to complete. I researched a lot to make sure that I can have my work authorization in time. Although USCIS specifies that the process takes a maximum of 3 months, I read about many cases that took longer. I was very worried but fortunately, everything went well for my case. I am writing my experience and learning in this post, might be helpful for someone out there J

There are two options to apply for Employment Authorization: e-file or mail a paper application.

I applied using the second option - mailing a paper application. The reason I opted for the paper application was completely driven by my learning through different blogs and people’s experience at different sites. 
Later I got to know from some of my friends that they applied online and even they received the EAD in decent time. So can’t say if the paper application really works faster. But the one advantage I can surely write about in my case (paper application) is that I didn’t have to go for a biometrics appointment. I am guessing that since the documents and photos were submitted in hard copy with signature, biometrics was not required. Also, fingerprints are taken when entering the US for the first time at the port of entry. As far I know all the e-file applicants receive the biometrics appointment (if you have come across any exceptions, do drop me a link or note).

Here is the list of documents you need to submit for L2 EAD application:

• USCIS Filing Fee of $410 – Cashier’s check
• Form G-1145 (form to request e-notification when USCIS accepts your application)
• Form I-765 (EAD form)
• Copy of passport (Spouse and Self)
• Copy of US visa (Spouse – L1 visa and Self – L2 visa)
• Copy of I-94 arrival/departure record (Spouse and Self)
• Copy of marriage certificate
• Two (2) photographs (self)

I mailed my application along with above documents and a cover letter to USCIS through USPS Express mail service. This was the fastest method and cost me ~$20. And this was the only option of getting a signed acknowledgement of application receipt. You know, I was very careful with this application so opted for Express mail. You can choose to go with normal mail or courier also, whatever works out better for you.

My application was received by USCIS the very next day. I received an acknowledgment email and also a letter from USCIS after a couple of days. Everything seemed to be going great but then the wait began... I didn’t hear anything from USCIS for almost 60 days. Many of my friends got the biometrics appointment 1-2 weeks after submitting the application. 

I was concerned about the likelihood of incrementally long delays heron if the biometrics appointment is indeed compulsory. I tried calling the USCIS office a couple of times. They said my application is under normal processing time and I should wait for 90 days. If I still didn’t receive my card by then, I should immediately inform USCIS.

After doing little more research on the internet, I decided to write to Citizen and Immigration Services Ombudsman (cisombudsman@dhs.gov) asking their help to expedite my case so I can assume employment at the earliest. In response, I received an automated message suggesting to submit requests for case assistance through their Online Case Assistance (OCA) portal (https://cisomb.dhs.gov/oca/form7001.aspx). I didn't submit the request on the portal and decided to wait for some more time. I can't say if writing the mail to Ombudsman worked for me but fortunately, in a week's time my card was approved and I received my card without a biometrics appointment.

Here are the dates for your reference

21st May: Sent the EAD form-I765 and other documents through express mail
22nd May: Application received at USCIS office
28th May: Acceptance confirmation over email
29th May: Received the acceptance confirmation letter through the post
30th July: Mailed Citizen and Immigration Services Ombudsman
6th Aug: Application approved and status changed to “Post Decision Activity”
6th Aug: Status changed to “Card/Document Production”
10th Aug: Received the card

Good Resources:
https://www.immihelp.com/
https://www.trackitt.com/

Hope this helps!

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