L2 EAD - Does it require biometrics?

[vgangad]

Hi All,

L2 EAD (new application) receipt date: April 06 2021. (Vermont service center)
I understand from the USCIS portal, the processing time is around 7 to 10 months.

I also learnt that USCIS is getting rid of biometrics process. Does L2 EAD normally requires biometrics?
If Biometrics process is not required, would it shrink the processing time by atleast 2 months?

Anyone had filed new L2 EAD application in and around Nov 2021 and got their EAD card? Thanks much for your help !

Regards
Vicky

[uks19]

Hi All,

L2 EAD (new application) receipt date: April 06 2021. (Vermont service center)
I understand from the USCIS portal, the processing time is around 7 to 10 months.

I also learnt that USCIS is getting rid of biometrics process. Does L2 EAD normally requires biometrics?
If Biometrics process is not required, would it shrink the processing time by atleast 2 months?

Anyone had filed new L2 EAD application in and around Nov 2021 and got their EAD card? Thanks much for your help !

Regards
Vicky

You mean Nov 2020 right?

I applied on July 31st, 2020 Biometrics completed 3rd December 2020 Texas SC, and no updates after that still waiting for EAD extension approval ...... Also waiting for L2 extension Approval filed together.

USCIS has dropped the biometric step for I-539 and I-765 and few other forms but I don't know how this will speed up as I cannot see any fast-moving processing date.

Best of luck with your application.

[Libra_14]

USCIS has recently stopped asking for biometrics for I539 (starting May 17th 2021).

Earlier the forms used to wait until an appointment is available for biometrics, causing delay in processing. Now since it won't be needed, USCIS will be able to approve these forms faster.

You should expect faster response for this form in some months - once the backlog gets cleared.

[Gina1808]

Standalone L2 EAD (filing only I-765, no I-539) does *not* require biometrics. L2 extension form I-539 required bios until 5/17/21 (currently requirement suspended for 2 years), delaying approvals and thus dragging out I-765 processing times.

My 2nd L2 EAD renewal last year took about 4 months in Vermont - submitted late May 2020, EAD received in September. No bios both times (initial and 1st renewal).

So: if you are filing for EAD with a valid L2, chances are your application will be processed faster than 7 months because it is the heavy volumes of I-539s that are dragging out official processing times.

Good luck!

[Ravi H]

Filed L2 ead, first time applicant in CA in the month of May 21, Got the tracking details by post in 3 weeks. Estimated wait time is 7 to 11 months.

[souvikc]

Hi Ravi - did you hear back anything ? Whats your status now?