The term "11 sep combo card" is a noun phrase, where "11 sep" functions as an adjectival modifier specifying a particular policy. It refers to an update announced by U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) on September 11, 2023, concerning the Employment Authorization Document (EAD) and Advance Parole (AP) combination card. This document, commonly known as a "combo card," provides both work authorization and travel permission to individuals with pending applications for adjustment of status to lawful permanent resident.
The core of this policy change is the extension of the maximum validity period for these specific combo cards. For eligible applicants with a pending Form I-485 (Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status), USCIS increased the maximum validity period for both initial and renewal combo cards from the previous one- or two-year standard to five years. This change is an administrative measure intended to reduce the frequency of renewal applications, thereby alleviating processing backlogs and improving agency efficiency.
In practice, this policy provides greater stability and predictability for applicants and their employers. The extended five-year validity period minimizes the risk of lapses in work and travel authorization while an adjustment of status application is adjudicated. This reduces the administrative burden and financial cost associated with frequent renewals, offering applicants more security and continuity during the lengthy green card process.
