Problems with L2 EAD?

[vishp]

Hello,

My husband is applying for L1 visa and we are planning to apply for L2 for me. Once we are in US, we are planning to get EAD for me. Are there any issues with working under EAD? How does it compare with working in L1? I read on other websites that there may be some complication in travelling to my home country and that I need I-485.

Can someone please help me understand cons of L2/EAD?

Thanks a lot!

[raghvi]

I see no reason for worry. Many couples do this. L2 EAD employees not bound by employer, they can work for any employer, unlike L1 and H1 they don't need to be working to maintain their status so even if you are on bench and not getting paid you wont go out of status like L1 or H1. As long as primary L1 continues to maintain their status L2 will be in status. The only disadvantage I see is that if for some reason L1 is sent back, like extension denial/lay off/long leave etc , L2 also has to go with them. This is my opinion not legal advice

[vishp]

Thanks Raghvi.
Switching to EAD: CONS:
-----------------------
(1) Leaving the country before I485 approval is an hassle (need AP)
(2) Company/attorney needs to switch you from H1B to EAD (1 extra step)
(3) You have to renew it every year (process starts after 8-9 months)

I am concerned about #1 above and need help in understanding it. Can you please help?

thanks!

[mrcoolbuddy]

This is for people on EAD status before the Green card, this is nothing to do with L2 EAD. You are good and all these doesn't apply for you on L2 EAD status

[vishp]

Thanks for the quick confirmation. 1 last question: What's the validity period for L2 EAD? Does it expire before L2 visa expires? Or, does it remain valid till L2 visa is valid?

Thanks!

[shervin143]

EAD has nothing to do with the L2 visa expiry date. It is issued until the L1 petition expiry date or until the L2 I-94 expiry date.

Thanks for the quick confirmation. 1 last question: What's the validity period for L2 EAD? Does it expire before L2 visa expires? Or, does it remain valid till L2 visa is valid?

Thanks!

[vishp]

Thanks - Does this mean that I don't have to renew it at all? I read somewhere that EAD is generally given only for a max of 2 years after which one needs to renew it. thanks!

[kabkaba]

Expiry date will be written on the the EAD. Renew it before it expires.