The U.S. government has revealed a significant change regarding the issuance of Employment Authorization Documents (EAD) for various immigrant groups. Effective December 5th, these permits will no longer be granted for five years but will instead be valid for 18 months. This policy shift, according to the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), is intended to enhance background checks and prevent fraudulent activities.
In an interview with journalist Mario J. Pentón, attorney Ismael Labrador explained that this change applies not only to pending applications but also to any new submissions after December 5th.
Who Will Be Affected by These Changes?
The groups specifically impacted include refugees, asylees, asylum seekers with pending cases, and individuals in the process of applying for permanent residency or deportation suspension.
Who Remains Unaffected (For Now)?
For individuals already holding a work permit valid for several years, say until 2029 or 2030, this new measure does not alter their expiration date. In essence, the reduction to 18 months doesn't retroactively shorten existing permits; it primarily impacts those currently being processed or submitted after the policy's commencement.
Labrador emphasized, "We hope this won't affect future cases, but we can't predict what will happen. This measure only impacts those with pending applications. Unfortunately, for those awaiting adjustment, they will now receive a permit valid for just 18 months."
Fraud Prevention Measures
Previously, on October 30, 2025, USCIS had already implemented another important adjustment by removing the automatic extension of EADs during renewals, except in rare instances. This has affected those relying on such extensions to maintain employment amid the waiting period.
The agency clarified that the change aims to strengthen background checks of immigrants and prevent EAD fraud. According to USCIS, more frequent evaluations of those legally working in the U.S. will become possible.
Joseph Edlow, the director of USCIS, assured that this policy ensures that "those seeking employment in the U.S. do not pose a public safety threat or promote ideologies contrary to national values."
This decision aligns with the law H.R. 1 – One Big Beautiful Bill Act, signed by President Donald Trump on July 4th, which mandates shorter validity periods for beneficiaries of humanitarian programs such as Temporary Protected Status (TPS) or parole.
FAQs on Work Permit Reductions
Who will be directly affected by the reduction in work permit duration?
The primary groups affected are refugees, asylees, asylum seekers with pending cases, and individuals applying for permanent residency or deportation suspension.
Does the new rule apply to existing work permits?
No, the change does not retroactively affect current permits. It only applies to applications pending or filed after December 5th.
What is the purpose of the reduced permit validity?
The USCIS intends for the reduction to allow more frequent evaluations of legal workers, thereby reinforcing background checks and preventing fraud.