May 30, 2003 - BCIS launched its new e-filing program May 29, but the complicated process, which includes no promise of quicker adjudications, will not benefit applicants in most cases. In its initiation, the e-filing program applies only to forms I-765 (Application for Employment Authorization Document, EAD card) and I-90 (Application for Replacement of Green Card).

Unfortunately, the e-filing process includes many steps and therefore many opportunities for delay or error. E-filing for an EAD card begins with the completion and submission of an online application (with no provision at this time for batch submission). The applicant then calls to an 800 number to schedule an appointment at an Application Support Center (ASC). Then the applicant must go to the ASC at the appointed time to allow BCIS to collect a photograph, signature, and fingerprints. This information is sent to the BCIS, in order to produce the EAD card from the usual centralized card production facility. BCIS spokespeople have indicated that e-filed applications will not receive expedited processing.

Compared with the new e-filing multi-step process, the current mail-in process remains simpler and easier. For example, to apply for an EAD card by mail, the application, photos, signature, and fingerprint forms are simply compiled and mailed to the BCIS. Under this process, there is no need call and wait for an appointment, travel to and wait at the ASC, and the applicant doesn’t have to deal directly with BCIS personnel. BCIS receives the application more quickly and can act on it sooner, resulting in an earlier adjudication. For those who reside at a distance from an Application Support Center, the choice is even more obvious.

Berry Appleman & Leiden will continue to pursue processing options that decrease effort or processing times, but the BCIS e-filing program offers neither at the present time.