US Ends Automatic Work Permit Extensions for Foreign Nationals

The United States has ended the automatic extension of work permits for certain foreign nationals, a policy change that will take effect from 30 October 2025.

The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) announced the decision through an interim final rule, ending the system that allowed eligible foreign workers to continue employment while their Employment Authorisation Document (EAD) renewal applications were being processed. The move reverses a temporary measure introduced in December 2024, when the Biden administration extended automatic renewals from 180 to 540 days to address processing delays and labour shortages.

Under the new rule, applicants must now submit EAD renewal requests within 180 days before their current permits expire to maintain work eligibility. Renewal applications filed on or after 30 October 2025 will no longer qualify for automatic extensions. Existing EADs that have already received extensions before that date will remain valid under the previous policy.

According to DHS, the change aims to strengthen national security by allowing more frequent and thorough background checks. Officials said that ending automatic extensions will help US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) identify fraudulent applications and potential security risks more effectively.

Employers will face increased compliance responsibilities under the revised system. They must ensure that foreign employees hold valid work authorisation, typically documented through Form I-766, and submit renewal applications well in advance. Failure to do so could lead to employment interruptions and potential legal consequences.

For foreign workers, the end of automatic extensions may result in temporary gaps in employment, particularly for those who experience processing delays or miss the new filing window. Fee waivers for EAD renewal applications under Form I-765 will remain available, but the process is expected to become more time-sensitive and administratively demanding.