Mahaprasad Nanda

Understanding USCIS "Case Approved" Status for Work Permit Applications

When applying for a work permit (Employment Authorization Document or EAD) through U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), receiving an "approved" case status is a significant milestone. This guide explains what this status means, how to identify it, and what to expect next.

What Does "Case Approved" Mean?

An "approved" status indicates that USCIS has reviewed and approved your Form I-765 work permit application. This means you're one step closer to receiving your Employment Authorization Document (EAD).

How to Identify an Approved Status:

1. USCIS Account: Log in to see "Case Approved" or "Case Was Approved"
2. Case Status Tracker: Check using your 13-digit receipt number
3. Official Notice: Receive Form I-797B (Notice of Action) by mail

Common Case Statuses Before Approval:

1. Received/Accepted
2. Evidence Request
3. Expedite Request
4. Fingerprints/Biometrics
5. Interview (if required)
6. Appeal (in rare cases)

"Case Approved" vs. "Case Received":

• "Case Approved": Final decision made, application granted
• "Case Received": Initial acknowledgment, application under review

Next Steps After Approval:

1. Await official USCIS approval notice (Form I-797B) by mail
2. Wait for EAD card to arrive (typically 3-10 days after approval notice)
3. Track EAD card shipment using USPS tracking number in your USCIS account

Important: You cannot legally work until you receive your physical EAD card.

Potential Issues:

• Undeliverable card
• Incorrect mailing address
• Lost card

If any of these occur, contact USCIS immediately.

Post-Approval Status Updates:

1. New Card Is Producing
2. Card Was Mailed To Me
3. Card Was Picked Up By The United States Postal Service
4. Card Was Delivered To Me By The Post Office

Monitoring Your Case:

• Check online through USCIS account or case tracking tool
• Watch for mailed notices from USCIS

When to Seek Legal Help:

• If your application wasn't approved
• Experiencing significant delays beyond normal processing times

Resources:

• USCIS Case Status Online: https://egov.uscis.gov/casestatus/landing.do
• USCIS Contact Center: https://www.uscis.gov/contactcenter

Disclaimer:

The information presented in this article is intended for academic and marketing purposes only and should not be construed as legal advice. It is essential to consult with a qualified immigration attorney or legal professional for accurate and up-to-date legal counsel specific to your individual circumstances. Laws and regulations are subject to change, and professional guidance is crucial to ensure compliance.

OpenSphere is a technology company and does not hold itself out as a law firm. It operates independently and is not affiliated with or endorsed by the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) or any government entity. OpenSphere, its authors, and agents do not warrant the accuracy or real-world applicability of the information herein, nor are they liable for any damages arising from reliance on this information.