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The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) announced a significant update on employment authorization document (EAD) renewals, benefiting eligible noncitizens and U.S. employers. Effective January 13, 2025, the automatic extension period for EAD renewals will permanently increase from 180 to 540 days. This change applies to eligible individuals with timely-filed renewal applications, including those filed since May 4, 2022.
This final rule aims to minimize disruptions in employment authorization while U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) processes EAD renewals. Reducing lapses in work authorization ensures eligible workers can maintain their employment and continue contributing to the economy.
According to DHS Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas, this policy will help businesses retain workers, eliminate bureaucratic hurdles, and support economic growth. USCIS Director Ur M. Jaddou highlighted that this measure aligns with ongoing efforts to streamline immigration processes and reduce processing times.
Eligible categories for the extended EAD renewal period include refugees, asylees, TPS holders, and spouses of certain visa holders, among others. These workers will now have greater job security, enabling them to plan their careers and support their families without interruptions caused by administrative delays.
This decision reflects the Biden-Harris administration’s commitment to strengthening the U.S. workforce, fostering economic stability, and improving opportunities for eligible noncitizens. With over 16 million jobs created since January 2021, this rule underscores the importance of keeping qualified individuals in the labor force to meet the growing demands of U.S. businesses and communities.
