The U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has implemented a significant change to immigration policy by ending automatic extensions of Employment Authorization Documents (EADs) for certain categories of noncitizens renewing their work permits. This interim final rule took effect on October 30, 2025. Under the new policy, individuals filing EAD renewals on or after this date will no longer receive an automatic extension, except in limited circumstances such as those mandated by law or specified under Temporary Protected Status (TPS) provisions.
The DHS explained this measure aims to enhance vetting and background checks to improve public safety and national security. U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) Director Joseph Edlow emphasized the focus on thorough screening, stating that working in the United States is a privilege that requires comprehensive vetting, reversing previous policies that prioritized convenience over security.
Applicants are advised to file for renewal up to 180 days before their current EAD expires to prevent lapses in work authorization. The new rule does not retroactively affect those whose EADs were automatically extended before October 30, 2025. Previously, under a December 2024 rule, DHS had increased the automatic extension period from 180 to 540 days to alleviate issues caused by processing backlogs.
This policy shift is expected to impact thousands of foreign nationals, including many Indian workers, H-4 dependent spouses, and Temporary Protected Status holders. The DHS asserts that tighter controls will help combat fraud and identify individuals who may pose security risks, reflecting a more security-conscious immigration stance.
