EAD on L2 visa

[deephoenix]

I will be travelling to US on L2 shortly. I have a few questions regarding EAD -

1. Is EAD mandatorily required on L2?

talks about 2 stances on the issue -- 'An SSA policy states that L spouses are authorized to work without specific DHS authorization and are not required to apply for an EAD as documentary evidence of work authorization, but must submit proof of marriage to an L principal. However, the SSN card issued to an L spouse will state that it is "valid for work only with DHS authorization," which is the same restriction imposed on the cards of other nonimmigrants authorized to work incident to status. Thus, the question is whether proof of status as the spouse of L principal is sufficient DHS authorization, or whether an EAD is required.'

So, need to confirm if one can work lawfully on L2 without obtaining an EAD.

2. How much time it generally takes to get EAD? Is there any premium processing to expedite EAD?

3. Is there any link where I can track current timelines on EAD at a particular center?

4. What I understand is obtaining EAD and SSN are independent processes. One can apply for EAD soon on arrival in US, and SSN 2-3 weeks after arrival. Is my understanding correct?

[kabkaba]

EAD is absolutely required for working. Just being in L2 status does not grant work authorization like being in H1 or L1 status does. It takes 2-3 months to obtain EAD and you must be present in the US in L2 status in order to apply.

What you quote is about SS card used as work authorization. In general only US Citizens and permanent residents (GC) receive unrestricted SS cards. Everybody else gets a card with 'not valid for work' notation.

[jais123]

Hi,

I am also looking answer for the below question?

What I understand is obtaining EAD and SSN are independent processes. One can apply for EAD soon on arrival in US, and SSN 2-3 weeks after arrival. Is my understanding correct?

Does someone tell me if EAD can be applied as soon as person on L2 arrives in US. Or do we have to wait for SSN to come first?

[txh1b]

EAD can be applied without SSN. For many visas EAD is a prerequisite for SSN though it is not for L2.

[deephoenix]

EAD on L2 Visa

Thanks for replying-- couple more qn's


-- Is there any link where I can track current timelines on EAD at a particular center?

-- Is an EAD obtained from a particular center valid thruout the US?

[kabkaba]

You can look at http://www.immihelp.com/processing-times/ for timelines, but most of those in my opinion are too defensive (longer than usual). You will apply to the appropriate service center based on your state of residence. EAD is employment authorization anywhere in the US.

Check with the SSA office if they let you have SSN without an EAD.

[kvbhaskar7]

L2 EAD Extension

Hi,

My wife is on L2 Visa and valid till May 17th 2011. But Visa expires on Nov, 27 2011. I94 is valid until Aug 2013.

How long can she work in US? Even i want to apply extension for her EAD, can you please show some pointers and help me here.

Thanks,
KVB

[kabkaba]

Visa is only an entry document. I-94 determines the duration of stay. Work authorization can be given as long as duration of stay.