End of Automatic Extensions of Work Permits Would Affect Thousands of Immigrants by claudia rivera cotto enlace latino nc
It is recommended to apply at least 180 days before your EAD expires
The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has announced a new rule that will end the automatic extension of work permits for immigrants.
As of October 30, 2025, those applying for an Employment Authorization Document (EAD) renewal must have approval from U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services before continuing to work. Automatic extensions were expanded in 2024 to reduce permit processing delays.
Under the new rule, employers will be required to suspend workers whose EAD has expired, even if the renewal is in process. It is estimated that this measure could affect hundreds of thousands of workers across the United States who depend on this permit to work legally.
Limited exceptions Some exceptions to this rule will still apply. For example, automatic extension provisions linked to certain legal requirements or Federal Register notices (such as EADs based on Temporary Protected Status) may remain in effect.
The DHS argument: Security and Verification DHS explained that the new rule seeks to strengthen background checks in order to prevent fraud and protect national security. “USCIS is placing a new emphasis on rigorous review and evaluation of aliens, eliminating policies the previous administration implemented that prioritized the convenience of aliens over the safety of Americans,” said Joseph Edlow, director of USCIS. “It is a common-sense measure to ensure that proper review and evaluation are completed before extending a foreign national’s employment authorization or any documentation. All foreigners should remember that working in the United States is a privilege, not a right,” he added.
How would it impact immigrants? Attorney Hector Quiroga, founder of Quiroga Law Office, PLL, warned that the move could lead to temporary job losses for thousands of people whose permits expire before USCIS approves their renewals. “The measure shifts the burden of the government’s administrative backlogs directly to the immigrant,” Quiroga said. “If USCIS does not process on time, the worker loses his livelihood, even if he has fulfilled all his obligations. It is a change that generates uncertainty in families that already live under economic pressure.” The impact could be particularly felt in sectors such as agriculture, construction, services, and healthcare. According to industry estimates, more than half a million workers are expected to experience job disruptions. “This change represents a setback in terms of certainty and administrative efficiency. This is not a political discussion, but a measure that can have very real human and economic consequences,” warned lawyer Quiroga.
Recommendations for Immigrants with EADs Automatic extensions issued before October 30, 2025, will remain valid until expiration. From that date on, all renewals must be approved by USCIS before the immigrant can continue to work legally.
It is recommended to apply at least 180 days prior to EAD permit’s expiration Applicants can visit the official USCIS Employment Authorization Document page for details on eligible categories, renewal deadlines, and instructions on how to apply. Public Comments USCIS will receive comments from the public through www.regulations.gov over a 30-day period. Look for USCIS file -2025-0271 to learn the details of the rule and ask your questions.
