US ends automatic renewal of work permits for certain visa holders

The US Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has introduced a new temporary rule ending the automatic extension of Employment Authorization Documents (EADs), commonly known as work permits.

The policy, which came into effect on October 30, applies to renewal applications submitted on or after this date. It will impact several categories of foreign nationals, including H-4 visa holders — spouses of H-1B visa workers — and certain dependents of other visa types.

In a statement issued Thursday, the US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) advised foreign nationals to file renewal applications correctly and at least 180 days before their work permit expires to avoid disruptions in employment authorization.

USCIS cautioned that delays in renewal submissions could lead to temporary interruptions in employment eligibility and related documentation.

The move is part of the Trump administration’s broader efforts to tighten both legal and illegal immigration pathways. Recent measures also include a one-time $100,000 fee for skilled workers applying for H-1B visas, effective since September 21.

Also Read: Trump raises H-1B visa fee to $100,000 annually for skilled worker applicants

Under the previous policy, eligible applicants who filed timely renewals could continue working for up to 540 days after their EAD expired while awaiting approval. The new rule eliminates this automatic extension in almost all cases. Now, once the current work permit expires, the individual must stop working until a new one is issued or another legal basis for employment is established.

However, the DHS clarified that the new rule does not apply to renewal requests filed before October 30, which will still be processed under the previous policy allowing automatic extensions.

The department added that limited exceptions remain — such as extensions granted under specific statutory provisions or through notices published in the Federal Register — which will continue to qualify for automatic renewal.

According to DHS, the policy aims to strengthen the verification process for foreign workers before extending employment authorization. Ending automatic extensions, the agency said, will allow for more frequent vetting of non-citizens, helping USCIS detect fraud, mitigate potential security risks, and ensure the removal of individuals deemed ineligible to remain in the United States.