After approval, it can take several weeks for the physical EAD card to be produced and mailed. If the card does not arrive within a reasonable period, you can check your case status online to see if it was mailed and whether tracking information is available. Address errors are a common cause of delivery issues.

If the card shows as delivered but you never received it, you may need to file a request for a replacement due to non-delivery. USCIS has a specific process for reporting missing cards, and timing matters. Acting promptly increases the chance that the issue can be resolved without additional fees.

While waiting, keep copies of your approval notice, as some employers may accept it temporarily depending on the category. However, the physical card is usually required for Form I-9 verification. If employment start dates are affected, communicating clearly with your employer can help avoid misunderstandings.