Traveling with EAD/AP Card

[mo88]

Hello,

I have a question regarding the risks of traveling using an EAD/AP card.
I came to the US early last year on a visit visa, then COVID happened. During that time my girlfriend and I decided to get married. We have been together since 2016. We got married and I filed for AOS along with EAD/AP but that caused me to overstay my visa for about 2.5 months until we finalized the paperwork and filed for the AOS.

I recently received my AP card and it seems like my GC interview won't happen any time soon based on their current case processing dates. (Probably not before April 2022) My question is:
- Is it safe to travel back home to visit my family during the holidays for a month? I haven't seen them for almost 2 years now, but I'm worried about this causing any issues to my application or issues when returning at the port of entry.
- Also, my wife might come with me but we're not sure yet if she could since she might not be able to take time off work. Would it be better if she were with me or it doesn't really matter?

Thank you in advance!

[Enub4]

From what I read, traveling with AP is pretty safe. I have seen people that overstayed their visa for years before marriage to USC and were able to travel abroad and come back without problems.

[cmazara]

I would say make sure your EAD card has the AP also, many people just file for ead and think that the AP comes with it regardless.

[mo88]

No, I'm sure it is an AP card, I'm just worried about any other complications returning.

[UScitizenFilingforspouse]

Hello,

I have a question regarding the risks of traveling using an EAD/AP card.
I came to the US early last year on a visit visa, then COVID happened. During that time my girlfriend and I decided to get married. We have been together since 2016. We got married and I filed for AOS along with EAD/AP but that caused me to overstay my visa for about 2.5 months until we finalized the paperwork and filed for the AOS.

I recently received my AP card and it seems like my GC interview won't happen any time soon based on their current case processing dates. (Probably not before April 2022) My question is:
- Is it safe to travel back home to visit my family during the holidays for a month? I haven't seen them for almost 2 years now, but I'm worried about this causing any issues to my application or issues when returning at the port of entry.
- Also, my wife might come with me but we're not sure yet if she could since she might not be able to take time off work. Would it be better if she were with me or it doesn't really matter?

Thank you in advance!

It is perfectly safe to re-enter the US with AP after traveling abroad. Remember, USCIS ran extensive background checks, found no issues and approved your combo card. You're fine.
Your wife does not need to travel with you. Upon your return, the CBP officer may take you to a secondary inspection. There is nothing to fear there. They will ask you very basic questions. Are you still married? Who is your spouse? They may ask why your spouse did not travel with you but that does not mean your spouse must travel or should have travelled with you.

Feel free to book your travels and be mindful of local policies and regulations around COVID-19. You should be fine!

[mo88]

Great, Thank you so much!