CIS Ombudsman Makes Recommendations on EAD Processing Delays
CIS Ombudsman Recommendation # 35
The CIS Ombudsman recommends that USCIS: (1) adhere to regulations that state USCIS shall issue Employment Authorization Documents (EADs) within 90 days, or issue interim EADs, to prevent unnecessary loss of employment; (2) expeditiously provide information to the public stating the cause of EAD processing delays and how the delays will be addressed; (3) provide consistent guidance to the public regarding EADs pending more than 90 days via the National Customer Service Center toll-free number and local offices; and, (4) reconsider Ombudsman recommendation FR2006-25 to issue multi-year EADs. Additionally, the Ombudsman suggests that (5) USCIS consider the following operational procedures to issue interim EADs when applications are pending over 90 days; (6) modify USCIS I-797 Receipt Notices for Form I-765 (Application for Employment Authorization) to provide for continued employment authorization; and, (7) affix fraud proof stickers to expired EADs upon determination of an applicant's eligibility for an extension.