USCIS Update: Green Card Production Backlog, EAD Card Delays and USCIS Furloughs | Summary and Q&A

TL;DR

The USCIS is experiencing a backlog of 50,000 green cards and 75,000 EAD cards due to a printing issue, potentially affecting travel and employment opportunities for immigrants.

Key Insights

• 🎴 The USCIS is facing a printing backlog of 50,000 green cards and 75,000 EAD cards, impacting applicants waiting for approval.
• 😚 Financial troubles have caused the USCIS to scale back card production, with one facility closed and the other operating at reduced capacity.
• 🎴 Green card holders may need an I-551 stamp for travel, while EAD card holders may face employment interruptions.
• 🎴 USCIS employees may be furloughed due to financial constraints, further impeding card production.
• ❓ The duration of the backlog and printing issues depends on the resolution of the USCIS's financial difficulties.
• 🥳 Renewal applicants for EAD cards may have a 180-day grace period, but it is dependent on immigration status.
• ❓ The USCIS contact center can be contacted for potential I-551 stamp appointments.

Transcript

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Questions & Answers

Q: Why is there a backlog of green cards and EAD cards at the USCIS?

The USCIS outsourced the production of these cards, but after the contract ended and due to financial problems, they have scaled back production, causing a backlog.

Q: How does the printing backlog affect green card and EAD card holders?

Green card holders may face travel difficulties without their physical card, but they can try getting an I-551 stamp as an alternative. EAD card holders may encounter job interruptions if their card expires, even with a renewal application, although a 180-day grace period might be applicable depending on immigration status.

Q: How long will the printing backlog continue?

The duration of the backlog is uncertain and dependent on the resolution of the USCIS's financial troubles. If emergency funding isn't received, 13,400 employees may be furloughed for at least 30 days up to 90 days, which would further impact card production.

Q: What can individuals do if they need to travel without a valid green card?

They can contact the USCIS contact center to inquire about scheduling an appointment for an I-551 stamp at a field office, although availability may be limited. Emergency appointments were previously offered.

Summary & Key Takeaways

• The USCIS is facing a backlog of 50,000 green cards and 75,000 EAD cards that need to be printed and mailed out to approved applicants.

• The production of these physical cards has been affected due to the USCIS scaling back production after outsourcing ended and financial troubles emerged.

• The backlog may impact individuals waiting for approval of their first-time or renewal EAD card or green card, limiting their ability to travel or work.