If you’re waiting for your employment authorization and wondering whether you can expedite the process, the answer is yes—you can request expedited processing. However, obtaining an expedited decision isn’t easy, and it requires meeting specific criteria. Here’s what you need to know about the process and what makes a successful request.
Standard Processing Times for Employment Authorization
Currently, processing times for employment authorization applications are averaging around three months. This wait can create significant challenges for applicants who need work authorization to support themselves or their families. While you cannot directly speed up the standard process, you can request expedited processing under certain circumstances.
Criteria for Expedited Processing
To be considered for expedited processing, you must demonstrate a compelling reason that justifies faster handling of your application. Some of the reasons that may qualify include:
- Severe economic loss: If you can demonstrate that a delayed decision would cause significant financial hardship, such as losing your home or inability to meet basic living expenses, this could strengthen your request.
- Emergency situations: Urgent medical conditions or family emergencies that require immediate work authorization may also be considered.
- Humanitarian reasons: Specific humanitarian situations may warrant a faster decision.
- USCIS error: If your delay is due to an administrative error by USCIS, you may have grounds for an expedited request.
Each of these criteria requires strong documentation to support your claim. For example, evidence of financial hardship might include bank statements, foreclosure notices, or letters from employers.
Challenges of Requesting Expedited Processing
While it’s possible to request an expedited review of your employment authorization, the process is often challenging. Because many people face long processing times and are seeking expedited decisions, competition is high, and only the most urgent cases tend to be approved.
When applying for expedited processing, it’s essential to clearly explain your situation and provide detailed documentation to support your claim. Even then, approval is not guaranteed, and it’s important to be prepared for a potential denial.
Conclusion
If you have a compelling reason, you can request expedited processing for your employment authorization, but be aware that approval is difficult and requires clear evidence. If you believe you meet the criteria for an expedited request, working with an experienced immigration attorney can help ensure that your application is as strong as possible.
For more information on how to apply for expedited processing or if you need help preparing your request, schedule a consultation with us today.
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