US ends automatic extension of work permits for migrants; thousands of Indian workers to be affected
Migrants who apply to renew their EAD on or after October 30, 2025, will no longer receive an automatic extension of their work permit
PTC Web Desk: The US Department of Homeland and Security (DHS) has announced an interim rule that ends the automatic extension of Employment Authorisation Documents (EAD) for migrant workers. The change is expected to affect thousands of foreign employees, including a large number of Indians.
According to the DHS statement issued on Wednesday, migrants who apply to renew their EAD on or after October 30, 2025, will no longer receive an automatic extension of their work permit. However, those whose EADs were extended before this date will not be impacted.
The department said the new rule aims to introduce “more vetting and screening to protect public safety and national security.” This move replaces a policy from the Biden administration that allowed immigrants to continue working in the US for up to 540 days after their work permit expired, provided they met certain eligibility conditions.
The earlier rule applied if the renewal application was filed on time. The EAD category was eligible for an automatic extension, and the “eligibility category” on the current EAD matched that on the receipt notice.
The DHS clarified that limited exceptions will remain, such as extensions provided under federal law or specific notices related to Temporary Protected Status (TPS).
The US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) said the updated rule would help detect fraud and identify individuals who may pose a threat. Calling it a “common-sense measure,” USCIS Director Joseph Edlow stated that “working in the US is a privilege, not a right.”
The USCIS has advised immigrants to apply for EAD renewal well in advance, up to 180 days before expiration , to avoid any gaps in work authorisation.
Who needs an EAD?
An Employment Authorisation Document (Form I-766) allows an individual to legally work in the US for a specified period. Permanent residents do not need an EAD as their Green Card (Form I-551) serves as proof of work authorisation. Similarly, non-immigrant visa holders like H-1B, L-1B, O, or P visa workers are exempt from this requirement.
In another development, Florida Governor Ron DeSantis directed universities to prioritise hiring American citizens and end the recruitment of foreign workers under H-1B visas.