PDF Filing Option for I-765 EAD Applicants

As of October 8, USCIS has rolled out a new, streamlined PDF filing option. This fresh approach allows eligible applicants to upload their completed Form I-765, along with the required supporting documents, directly through their USCIS online accounts. For the first time, you can also electronically file Form I-912, Request for Fee Waiver, making the process more convenient for those seeking a fee waiver.

Who Can Use the New PDF Filing Option?

The new option is available for applicants in the following categories:

• (a)(12): Holders of Temporary Protected Status (TPS).
• (c)(8): Individuals with asylum applications pending since January 4, 1995, or later.
• (c)(9): Family-based and employment-based applicants waiting to adjust their status under Section 245 of the Immigration and Nationality Act.
• (c)(11): Parolees.
• (c)(19): Applicants with initial TPS applications pending, who USCIS has deemed prima facie eligible for TPS, allowing them to receive an EAD as a temporary benefit.

A Heads-Up for (c)(9) Applicants: Fee Exemption Warning

If you're filing under the (c)(9) category and are eligible for a fee exemption, steer clear of the PDF option for now. If you proceed and pay the fee through the new system, there's no turning back – USCIS will not issue refunds. Fee-exempt applicants should stick with paper applications and mail them to the designated address listed on the USCIS website.

Who Gets the Fee Waiver?

The following (c)(9) applicants are exempt from paying the filing fee for Form I-765:

• Special Immigrant Juveniles.
• T nonimmigrants.
• Special Immigrant Iraqi or Afghan nationals.
• Abused spouses or children under the Cuban Adjustment Act or the Haitian Refugee Immigration Fairness Act.
• U nonimmigrants.
• Violence Against Women Act (VAWA) self-petitioners.
• Refugees, parolees, or lawful permanent residents with refugee status.

Manage Your Case with Ease

The new PDF filing option is a positive development for immigrant users.  As with any new features, we expect some hiccups at the beginning.  If you're more comfortable sticking with paper, the traditional mail-in filing option remains available.

(Immigration laws and policies change regularly.  If you have any questions regarding this article, please visit www.1visa1.com to schedule a legal consultation.)