May 29 2003

E-filing with the Bureau of Citizenship and Immigration Services (BCIS, formerly the INS) is now available for the popular I-765 (Application for Employment Authorization) and the I-90 (Application to Replace Permanent Residence Card). Applicants can submit applications through the BCIS' website at www.immigration.gov.

Upon submitting the form electronically, applicants will be able to print out a receipt with information about submitting supporting documents and biometric data. A receipt from the appropriate Service Center will also be mailed to the applicant. The filing fee will be deducted from the applicant's checking or savings account.

Unfortunately, there is no indication that e-filing will speed up the process. No applications will be adjudicated until all supporting documentation and biometric data is received.

To find out more about the new e-filing system, review the BCIS' fact sheet and FAQ's at their webiste: www.immigration.gov.