If you wish, to move faster with regards to your travel and your work permits, it is important to note that there is no form where you can request for an express process. But here, it means that one has to write or call USCIS or even arrange a meeting with an officer, and request person. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to apply for expedited processing and how to maximize your chances of getting your travel and work permits within the shortest possible time.
Ways to Fast-Track Your Work Permit or Travel Document
1. How to Submit an Expedited Request
There are several ways to request that your application be expedited:
- Phone Call: Some folks are interested in knowing if they can speak to someone at the USCIS and inquire whether the case can be expedited because a loved one is ill.
- Letter: Another way is you are able to send a letter to the service center or field office where your case is being handled.
- Infopass Appointment: You can make an appointment with a USCIS officer online on the official website of the USCIS through the application called Infopass.
While these requests can always be made, keep in mind that the decision to expedite your application is entirely up to USCIS. They may deny your request if you don’t meet their criteria.
Generally, most requests to expedite Employment Authorization Documents (EAD) or combo cards (which combine both a work permit and advance parole for travel) are denied unless there is a strong reason for urgency.
2. What Makes You Eligible for Expedited Processing?
USCIS has specific guidelines for when they will allow expedited processing. These requests are approved on a case-by-case basis, and applicants must meet certain criteria to be considered. Some of the situations where expedited processing may be granted include:
- Emergency Situation: A situation that requires immediate attention, such as a medical emergency.
- Severe Financial Loss: If you or your employer face significant financial loss because of delays in processing your work permit or travel document.
- Humanitarian Reasons: If there are serious humanitarian needs, such as the applicant or their family facing urgent safety concerns.
- USCIS Error: If there has been a mistake made by USCIS in processing your case that’s delaying your permit.
- National Interest: If there is a national interest, like if your work is critical to the U.S. economy or public health.
To make your case, you must be able to provide strong evidence to support your request. Expedited requests are not guaranteed to be approved, and most requests for expedited EAD combo cards are often denied unless the applicant demonstrates an urgent and valid reason.
3. How to Submit Your Request
Once you’ve determined that your situation meets the criteria for expedited processing, you’ll need to send in your request to USCIS. Follow these steps to ensure everything is in order:
Where to Send: When you submit your expedited request, send it to the same address where you originally filed your application. This will usually be the Chicago Lockbox for most applicants.
What to Include:
Your request should be clearly labeled with the words “EXPEDITE REQUEST” on the envelope. Along with your letter or application, include the following documents:
- Your full name and contact information.
- Your A-Number (Alien Registration Number).
- Copies of your I-131 (Application for Travel Document) and/or I-765 (Application for Employment Authorization) forms.
- A copy of your I-485 receipt notice, as this shows your adjustment of status application is pending.
By providing all relevant documentation, you ensure that USCIS can review your request more quickly and accurately.
4. Tracking Your Expedite Request
After sending your expedited request, it’s crucial to keep track of it. Here’s how you can stay on top of the process:
- Make Copies: Always keep a copy of your expedited request and supporting documents for your records.
- Tracking Number: When you send your request, be sure to get a tracking number from your postal service or courier. This allows you to track your documents and confirm that USCIS has received your expedited request.
Important Things to Remember
- No Guarantees: Expedited requests are not always granted. USCIS has the final say on whether your request will be approved.
- Urgency Is Key: To be considered for expedited processing, you need to show a strong, valid reason why your request should be handled faster. This means proving that waiting could cause significant hardship or delay.
- Be Organized: Submit all required documents and forms to avoid delays. The more organized and complete your submission, the faster USCIS can process your request.
If you’re hoping to expedite your work permit or travel permit (like an EAD combo card), you need to show that there is a valid reason for urgency. Remember that USCIS will make the final decision on your request, and it is not guaranteed to be approved. Make sure to follow the steps above, provide all necessary documentation, and track your submission for peace of mind.
General Requirements for Fast-Track Scheme
Eligibility and Certification:
Employers must ensure they are certified and hold the necessary licenses or ratings required by the governing body in their country (e.g., an A rating in the UK or certification by SIRI in Denmark).
Application Process:
Applications for permits under fast-track schemes must be submitted online by the employer. They must also ensure that all necessary documentation is complete and accurate to avoid delays
Power of Attorney:
In many cases, employees must grant their employers power of attorney to handle applications on their behalf. This should be documented properly.
Salary Requirements:
Employers need to meet specific salary thresholds for different tracks within the fast-track scheme. For example, in Denmark, an annual salary must meet or exceed DKK 514,000 for the pay limit track.
Job Genuine Requirement:
Employers must demonstrate that there is a genuine need for the position being filled, which may involve providing evidence of recruitment efforts or job descriptions that align with labor market needs.
Specific Considerations by Country
United Kingdom
- Employers should conduct right-to-work checks before hiring to avoid penalties and ensure compliance with immigration rules. They also need to choose the correct type of skilled worker license based on the role being sponsored.
Denmark
- Ensure that salaries meet the required thresholds and that the employer is certified by the Danish Agency for International Recruitment and Integration (SIRI).
Canada
- Employers should prepare complete applications that include all necessary documents such as medical exams and police certificates to qualify for faster processing under the Global Skills Strategy.
Finland
- The fast-track service requires both employee and employer participation via Enter Finland, with employers needing to add employment terms promptly after an employee submits their application
What specific risks are associated with the Fast Track scheme
1. Increased Complexity and Management Difficulty
Fast-tracking involves managing multiple activities simultaneously, which complicates oversight and coordination. This complexity can lead to errors and miscommunication, as project managers must juggle various tasks and ensure that all team members are aligned, increasing the likelihood of mistakes and delay.
2. Quality Compromises
Rushed work often results in lower quality outputs. Important details may be overlooked due to the pressure to meet accelerated deadlines, leading to design errors, omissions, and rework. This not only frustrates team members but can also lead to additional costs associated with fixing mistakes.
3. Team Burnout
The pressure of fast-tracking can lead to significant stress among team members, resulting in burnout. When employees are rushed, they might not have adequate time to plan and execute their tasks effectively, which can negatively impact morale and productivity.
4. Risk of Rework and Cost Overruns
With overlapping activities, there is a higher chance of rework due to dependencies that may not be immediately apparent. This can lead to increased costs, as redoing tasks often consumes more resources than originally planned. Additionally, the lack of thorough planning can result in cost overruns and financial disputes.
5. Contractual Risks
Fast-tracking can introduce legal complexities, including disputes over contractual obligations due to incomplete designs or specifications at the bidding stage. These issues can result in claims and delays that further complicate project timelines.
6. Schedule Delays
While the goal of fast-tracking is to expedite project delivery, it can paradoxically lead to delays if overlapping tasks are not managed effectively. If one task fails or encounters issues, it can create a domino effect that delays subsequent tasks, undermining the initial intention of speeding up the process.
How Law and Visas Can Help?
At Law and Visas, our team of expert immigration consultants is here to make your travel to the U.S. straightforward and successful. Whether you’re applying for a K-1 Visa or a J-1 Visa, we handle every step—from preparing your application to gathering the required documents.
Our Immigration Consultants and Lawyers ensure that your application meets the highest standards, with no details missed. We’ll also keep you informed throughout the process and coordinate with the immigration office or embassy on your behalf.
Law and Visas has a strong record of helping clients secure the visas/permits they need to visit the United States. You can call us today at +234 812 5505 986 to learn how we can help you.
