USCIS has a formal process in place to expedite Employment Authorization Documents (EAD) for healthcare workers. If a healthcare worker’s EAD application is pending for more than 90 days OR a renewal application is pending, and the current EAD expires within 30 days or has already expired, the applicant can request expedited processing by USCIS. The steps to request an expedite are as follows:
- Call USCIS at 1 (800) 375-5283. Say the magic words “Make an InfoPass appointment” (and keep repeating them) to get through to a live person. Once a live person answers, explain the need to expedite your case based on being a healthcare worker and that either your application has been pending for more than 90 days, or your current EAD will expire in less than 30 days, and a renewal is pending. You will need your pending I-765 EAD application receipt number for either scenario, so have that handy.
- After a certain amount of time (usually a day or two) USCIS will email you requesting that you send documentation by fax (yes, by fax) to support your claim. The documentation you can prepare ahead of time to submit when you receive the request can include but is not limited to the following:
- Letter from U.S. Employer regarding how they/U.S. patients would be affected without your ability to remain employed or start employment
- Letter was written by you regarding your role as a U.S. healthcare provider and the financial/emotional hardship that you would suffer
- Letters from colleagues/other medical professionals regarding the crucial services that you provide
- Employer Offer Letter/Contract
- Copies of your medical degree/ECFMG certificate/Licenses
- After submission of the above, USCIS should expedite your EAD, and hopefully, you will receive it in the mail soon.
At Vrapi Weeks, we specialize in the immigration processes of healthcare workers. If you are a healthcare worker or facility and have questions about the immigration process, schedule a consultation with one of our knowledgeable attorneys here.
