Summary of this article
US ends automatic EAD renewals for migrants.
Thousands of Indian workers may lose jobs.
DHS cites stricter vetting and screening rules.
The US Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has announced that it would end automatic renewals of Employment Authorisation Documents (EADs) for foreign migrant labourers. The new policy, starting October 30, 2025, is expected to impact thousands of foreign migrant labourers, including Indians who form a large part of skilled migrant labour in the US.
An EAD, or Form I-766, allows non-citizens to lawfully work in the US for a period of time. However, Green Card holders and non-immigrant visa workers, such as individuals with H-1B, L-1B, O, and P visas, are exempt under this rule since they do not require EADs for employment.
DHS Announces End Of Automatic EAD Extensions
The DHS announced in a statement that foreign nationals requesting renewal of work permits on and after October 30, 2025, will no longer receive automatic extensions. The decision means that employees with pending applications for renewal will no longer be able to continue working under expired permits. Any automatically extended EADs, nevertheless, issued before this day will remain valid until their initially approved period expires.
DHS has clarified that the decision aligns with its efforts to enhance “vetting and screening” procedures for migrants. It is part of the broader policy of US President Donald Trump’s administration focusing on enhanced immigration enforcement and demands for more intense background checks.
Biden-Era Policy Overturned
This action also revokes a policy under the previous administration of US President Joe Biden, which allowed immigrants to keep working after their authorisations lapsed for 540 days. The policy was adopted to reduce backlogs in the US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), and prevent job and employer disruptions.
Under the old policy, eligible immigrants who had made timely requests for renewal and whose EAD category was the same as the category on their receipt of renewal were allowed to work while their requests were processed. The reversal of the policy will most likely leave most workers in limbo, particularly workers whose visa categories require an EAD for them to work.
Limited Exceptions To Apply
The DHS clarified that some “limited exceptions” would exist. They are where extensions are allowed by special legislation or Temporary Protected Status (TPS) notices. Exceptions are also granted to individuals who are from countries at war or disaster, where they can stay and work legally in the US temporarily.
Stricter Screening And Filing Guidelines
The new policy will allow the USCIS to screen migrant workers more frequently. The agency said that regular vetting would be done to identify potential fraud and weed out individuals with security concerns.
USCIS Director Joseph Edlow said the action was a “common sense” step and pointed out that work in the US is a privilege that comes with the responsibility to adhere to.
The DHS also encouraged immigrants to file renewal applications at least 180 days before their EADs expire so they will not experience work interruptions. The statement further stated that delays in filing would result in short-term interruptions in the approval for employment authorisation or documentation.
