You can work now only if your C09 renewal meets the pre-Oct. 30, 2025 automatic-extension rules; otherwise you must wait, but you can pursue an evidence-backed USCIS expedite and formal delay escalation.

(d)(1)(i)-(ii)

To be eligible for the automatic extension under this paragraph, the request must be: (i) Properly filed on a form designated by USCIS and as provided by form instructions before the expiration date shown on the face of the Employment Authorization Document, or, for Temporary Protected Status-related Employment Authorization Documents (EADs), during the re-registration filing period described in the applicable Federal Register notice; (ii) Based on the same employment authorization category as shown on the face of the expiring Employment Authorization Document or is for an individual approved for Temporary Protected Status whose EAD was issued pursuant to 8 CFR 274a.12(c)(19);

5.1

For applications filed before Oct. 30, 2025, employees must have one of these qualifying eligibility categories to receive an automatic extension of their employment authorization and/or EAD validity: A03, A05, A07, A08, A10, A17*, A18*, C08, C09, C10, C16, C20, C22, C24, C26*, C31, and A12 or C19. Some category codes on the EAD may include the letter ‘P’ such as C09P. Employers should disregard the letter ‘P’ when comparing the category code on the EAD with the category code on the Form I-797C, Notice of Action receipt notice.

5.1

The extension begins on the day after the “Card Expires” date on the face of their EAD and generally continues for up to 540 days counted from the day after the EAD expires, as applicable, or until USCIS adjudicates the renewal application, whichever is earliest. If an employee is eligible for this automatic extension, acceptable proof of employment authorization and/or EAD validity during the automatic extension period includes an EAD that appears expired on the face of the card, presented with a Form I-797C, Notice of Action, receipt notice that shows a timely filed EAD renewal application in the same employment eligibility category as the EAD (except TPS-based EADs and notices, which could have A12 or C19 category codes).

Aliens who file to renew their EAD on or after Oct. 30, 2025, will no longer receive an automatic extension of their EAD. There are limited exceptions to this rule, including extensions provided by law or through a Federal Register notice for TPS-related employment documentation.

Severe Financial Loss

Job loss may be sufficient to establish severe financial loss for a person, depending on the individual circumstances. The need to obtain employment authorization, standing alone, without evidence of other compelling factors, does not warrant expedited treatment.

How to Make an Expedite Request

You generally may request we expedite your case after you receive a receipt notice. For most cases, you may request an expedite by contacting the USCIS Contact Center or by asking Emma. If you have a USCIS online account and have access to secure messaging, you may select “expedite” as the reason for your inquiry and submit your request there. You generally need to justify your expedite request with evidence.

footnote 7

seeks be expedited without a fee, even if premium processing is available for that benefit.[7] USCIS retains discretion not to expedite the benefit request.

Chapter 6, Section A

An applicant employed while his or her adjustment application is pending final adjudication must maintain USCIS employment authorization and comply with the terms and conditions of that authorization. The filing of an adjustment application itself does not authorize employment.

Chapter 6

As previously discussed, the INA 245(c)(2) and INA 245(c)(8) bars to adjustment do not apply to: Immediate relatives;

Form I-765

Form I-765: If you are an F-1 student seeking OPT or a STEM OPT extension and you are requesting premium processing for your Form I-765, visit our Form I-907 webpage to learn how to file your request.

You Must Seek Help From USCIS First

Before you request assistance from us, you must have contacted USCIS in the last 90 days and given the agency at least 60 days to try to resolve your problem.

How to Submit a Case Assistance Request

Submit DHS Form 7001, Request for Case Assistance online. We can bring issues to USCIS’ attention and recommend solutions, but only USCIS can approve or deny pending applications or petitions, including expedite requests.

Check Case Processing

Think your case is taking longer than expected? Submit Case Inquiry

Who May File Form I-765

(c)(9) File Form I-765 together with Form I-485, Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status, or if filing separately, submit a copy of your I-485 receipt notice or other evidence to show that your Form I-485 is pending.