Using Combo Cards: Airport Edition

The combo card refers to a combination of two identity cards for non-citizens in the United States: an Employment Authorization Document (EAD) and Advance Parole permission. The card allows individuals to legally work in the United States and travel abroad without abandoning their Green Card application. While the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) stopped issuing this card in 2022, it is still relevant for those awaiting permanent residency. Notably, certain credit cards, such as those offered by Capital One, provide airport lounge access as a benefit, which may be useful for travellers with combo cards.

Combo cards are for those awaiting permanent US residency

The combo card, also known as the Combination Employment Authorization and Advance Parole Card, is a document that combines two cards important to non-citizens in the United States. It allows individuals who have applied for permanent residency (a Green Card) to work and travel while their application is being processed. The card integrates the features of an Employment Authorization Document (EAD) and an Advance Parole document. This means that combo card holders can legally work in the United States without a separate work visa and travel abroad and return to the US while their adjustment of status is pending.

The combo card is typically valid for one or two years, depending on the decision of the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). It is important to ensure that the card does not expire while travelling abroad. To re-enter the US, the combo card must be presented at the port of entry, along with other identification documents. The combo card is a vital tool for re-entry into the United States, as it serves as I-512 Advance Parole.

If a combo card is lost or damaged, a replacement can be applied for immediately using Form I-765 for a new EAD. It is important to always keep the card updated and in good condition. In case of any questions or concerns about the status in the US and what a combo card authorizes the holder to do, it is recommended to consult an experienced immigration lawyer.

It is worth noting that in 2022, USCIS stopped issuing the combo card. However, the information provided here and in other sources can still be useful for those who previously obtained a combo card and are awaiting permanent residency in the US.

They combine two identity cards into one

The combo card combines two identity cards into one, serving as both an Employment Authorization Document (EAD) and Advance Parole permission. The EAD allows individuals to legally work in the United States without a separate work visa, while the Advance Parole permission enables them to travel abroad and re-enter the country while their adjustment of status is being processed.

By consolidating these two identity cards into one combo card, individuals no longer need to carry around two separate items. This enhances convenience and simplifies the process of travelling and working in the United States for non-citizens.

To obtain a combo card, individuals can apply for a Combination Employment Authorization and Advance Parole Card, commonly known as the combo card. This card is beneficial for those awaiting permanent residency in the US, as it provides the freedom to work and travel without the need for separate documents.

It is important to note that the combo card typically has a validity period of one to two years, and it is the responsibility of the cardholder to ensure it remains updated and in good condition. Additionally, the combo card should always be carried as proof of authorization to work legally in the US, along with other necessary identification documents.

They allow you to work in the US

The combo card, also known as the Combination Employment Authorization and Advance Parole Card, is a single card that serves as both work and travel authorization for non-citizens in the United States. It combines two identity cards: an Employment Authorization Document (EAD) or work permit, and Advance Parole permission. The latter allows individuals to travel and return to the US without abandoning their green card application-in-progress.

The combo card allows individuals to legally work in the US without a separate work visa. It is beneficial for those awaiting permanent residency in the country, as it offers the freedom to work and travel while their application is being processed. It is important to note that the combo card is not a replacement for a visa or green card. It is only valid during the adjustment of status period, and individuals must still meet the requirements for their specific visa category.

To obtain a combo card, individuals must apply for an adjustment of status and file Form I-765 (Application for Employment Authorization Document) and Form I-131 (Application for Travel Document) simultaneously. The combo card is typically valid for one year, and it is important to check the expiration date and apply for renewal if needed to avoid gaps in work authorization or travel ability.

If an individual's combo card is lost, damaged, or expired, they must apply for a replacement immediately using Form I-765 for a new EAD. They should contact USCIS for further instructions and ensure they understand how to use and maintain their card.

They allow you to travel outside the US and re-enter

The Combo Card, also known as the Combination Employment Authorization and Advance Parole Card, is a vital document for those awaiting permanent residency in the U.S. It combines two identity cards: an Employment Authorization Document (EAD) or work permit, and Advance Parole permission. The latter allows people to travel outside the U.S. and re-enter without abandoning their Green Card application-in-progress.

The Combo Card is typically valid for one or two years, depending on the decision of the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). It is important to check the expiration date and apply for renewal if needed to avoid any interruptions in work authorization or travel ability. Before travelling, ensure that your card will not expire while you are away. During travel, carry your Combo Card along with other identification documents, such as your passport. Upon re-entry, present your Combo Card at the port of entry to seek parole into the United States.

The Combo Card is a powerful tool for those awaiting permanent residency, as it provides the freedom to work and travel internationally without the need to carry around multiple separate documents. However, it is important to note that the Combo Card does not provide many additional privileges beyond what is offered by the EAD and Advance Parole documents. Additionally, the Combo Card is not available to everyone, and there may be delays in the application process due to per-country limitations or backlogs.

They are typically valid for one or two years

The combo card is a document that combines two identity cards for non-citizens in the United States: an Employment Authorization Document (EAD) and Advance Parole permission. This card is beneficial for those awaiting permanent residency in the U.S., as it allows them to work and travel while their application is being processed.

The combo card is typically valid for one or two years, depending on the decision of the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) and the holder's immigration status and type of application. The validity period gives USCIS ample time to process the green card application, barring any delays due to per-country limitations or quotas. It is important to note that the combo card is no longer being issued as of 2022, and any discussions regarding its validity period are largely historical.

To ensure uninterrupted work authorization and travel privileges, combo cardholders should apply for renewal well before the expiration date. Maintaining a valid combo card requires strict adherence to rules, timely action, and compliance with specific requirements, such as informing USCIS of any address changes within 10 days.

The combo card's validity period provides a convenient timeframe for individuals with pending green card applications, refugees, asylees, students, and temporary workers to maintain their legal work and travel status in the United States. However, it is always advisable to consult with an experienced immigration lawyer for detailed guidance and up-to-date information on the combo card and its validity.

Frequently asked questions