EAD Combo Card: What It Is and How to Use It
What’s on Your Card?
If your Employment Authorization Document (EAD) says:
“NOT VALID FOR REENTRY TO U.S.”
You cannot use it to travel back into the U.S.
If it says:
“SERVES AS I-512 ADVANCE PAROLE”
You have a Combo Card — which allows you to work in the U.S. and travel abroad while your Form I-485 (green card application) is pending.
What Is a Combo Card?
A Combo Card combines two benefits:
- ✅ Permission to work in the U.S. (EAD)
- ✈️ Permission to travel while your green card is pending (Advance Parole)
It’s issued to people who are applying for a green card inside the U.S. through adjustment of status.
Can I Travel with a Combo Card?
Yes, as long as the card is valid and not expired.
When you return to the U.S., you must:
- Show your combo card to a Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officer
- Be inspected and approved for reentry
🛫 Airlines and other travel carriers will accept the card to let you board flights to the U.S.
⚠️ Important: The card does not guarantee reentry. CBP has the final say.
Does It Guarantee Entry to the U.S.?
No. The Combo Card only lets you ask to be let back in.
CBP officers can:
- Approve or deny your parole
- Decide if you’re admissible under immigration law (INA § 212)
Even if you are paroled in, you are still considered an “applicant for admission.”
Can the Government Revoke My Travel Permission?
Yes. The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) can cancel your Advance Parole at any time.
If that happens:
- Your combo card can’t be used for travel anymore
- You may need a visa or another valid travel document to return
- Even if you return and enter, DHS can still end your parole later
Quick Summary for Combo Card Holders
✔️ Good for work and travel while your green card is processing
❌ Not a guarantee of reentry
⛔ Can be revoked by DHS
📅 Must return before your card expires
⚖️ Still subject to inadmissibility rules under immigration law
Planning to Travel? Talk to a Lawyer First.
If you’ve had past immigration problems, visa overstays, criminal issues, or anything else that might affect your reentry — it’s a good idea to get advice before you leave the U.S.
✅ Speak with a qualified immigration attorney or a BIA-accredited representative to avoid problems.
Questions About Traveling with a Combo Card? Need Legal Advice?
Contact me to ensure your travel plans won’t jeopardize your pending adjustment case.
Revision date: March 2025.