Over the last several days, we have received numerous reports from clients that they are receiving approved employment authorization documents (EADs) that do not include advance parole (AP) travel authorization, even though the applicant had requested both benefits. When an applicant requested both an EAD and advance parole, USCIS had previously been issuing “combination cards” that included both employment and travel authorization in one document.
We have been advised by USCIS that the processing change is intentional as the agency is working through the EAD backlog and is prioritizing EAD adjudication as it seeks to avoid applicants experiencing a lapse or prolonged lapse in employment authorization. At present, there is no additional information available on the scope or duration of this procedural change. Please note that even though an AP and EAD maybe adjudicated and issued together, USCIS is not obligated to do so.
If you need further assistance or clarifications, please contact our office at 972-241-4698. Follow us on Facebook at Akula & Associates and on Instagram at Akulalaw.