u/Short_Seaweed1878

Hi everyone,

My concern is about a possible EAD renewal gap after recent changes on EAD timeline + auto extension.

Example timeline (consider concurrent filing with PD Feb 2026) I’m worried about:

• Feb 2026: File EB-5 AOS package
• Mid/Late 2026: Receive first C09 EAD
• EAD may only be valid for about 18 months
• Renewal can usually be filed about 6 months before it expires
• If renewal processing takes 6–9+ months, there could be a gap where work authorization expires before the new EAD arrives
• I also understand that automatic EAD extensions for many renewal categories may no longer apply after Oct. 30, 2025

For EB-5 AOS filers in 2026, especially non-rural projects, how are you planning to avoid an EAD gap?

Questions:

1. Are attorneys recommending filing EAD renewal exactly 180 days before expiry?
2. Are people maintaining H-1B/L-1/H-4 EAD as backup?
3. Has anyone already faced or avoided a C09 EAD renewal gap?
4. Are EB-5 C09 renewals moving faster than initial EADs?
5. Is there any practical strategy besides filing as early as possible?

Not looking for legal advice — just trying to understand real-world planning from EB-5 AOS filers and recent 2026 timeline expectations.