On June 27, President Biden announced that he was extending and expanding Deferred Enforced Departure (DED) for certain Liberians. His announcement (1) defers the deportation of Liberians who had DED as of June 30, 2022; (2) defers the deportation of Liberians who have been present in the U.S. since May 20, 2017; (3) provides work authorization for these individuals; and (4) provides travel authorization, at the discretion of DHS. DED protection is available through June 30, 2024.
1. Do I need to apply for DED, employment authorization documents (EAD), and travel authorization?
You do not need to apply for DED because the deportation protection is automatic. However, you do
need to apply for an EAD (Form I-765) or travel authorization (Form I-131), if you would like to work or
travel. Having an EAD card serves as proof of permission to work, which can connect you to some
benefits, for example if you want to apply for a driver's license.
2. Who is eligible for an EAD/work authorization?
You are eligible to apply for an EAD:
● You are Liberian and had DED as of June 30, 2022.
-OR-
● You are Liberian and have been continuously physically present in the United States since May 20, 2017.
3. I already have work authorization through my current DED, do I need to apply again?
No. If you already had work authorization through DED, your EAD is automatically extended through
June 30, 2024, if it
● is a Category Code of A-11, and
● has a “Card Expires” date of March 30, 2020, January 10, 2021, or June 30, 2022.
4. This is my first time applying for an EAD. What should I do?
You must file an Application for Employment Authorization (Form I-765). When you are filling out the form, be sure to enter “(a)(11)” in response to Question 27.
5. How much does it cost to apply for an EAD?
The filing fee for the Form I-765 is $410. You have to submit a filing fee to USCIS or request a fee waiver (Form I-912) for the application fee.
6. How long does the work authorization last?
DED protection and the related work authorization are effective through June 30, 2024.
7. Where do I mail my EAD application?
Mail your completed Form I-765 and supporting documentation to
● If you are using the U.S. Postal Service (USPS): USCIS, Attn: DED Liberia, P.O. Box 805283, Chicago, IL 60680-5283.
● If you are using FedEx, UPS, or DHL: USCIS, Attn: DED Liberia (Box 805283), 131 S. Dearborn 3rd Floor, Chicago, IL 60603-5517.
8. I heard of major delays at USCIS, how can I check the status of my EAD application?
You can check your Case Status Online on the USCIS website at https://www.uscis.gov, or visit the
USCIS Contact Center at https://www.uscis.gov/ contactcenter.
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African Communities Together (ACT)