USCIS has introduced new shortened EAD expiration dates – just 18 months or 1 year for most categories. Learn who is affected, which groups need to renew more frequently, and how to prepare to avoid job disruptions

USCIS has made important changes that will affect all foreigners working in the United States under an Employment Authorization Document (EAD), including citizens of Venezuela, Haiti, El Salvador, Honduras, and Ukraine. Most categories will now receive authorization for only 18 months or even one year. The update applies to both new applications and those already awaiting consideration - so workers should check their document expiration dates in advance and plan for renewal. We will tell you about the main changes in obtaining an EAD below.

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Why did USCIS shorten the validity period of EADs?

The US Citizenship and Immigration Services explains the change by the need to strengthen control and reduce the risk of fraud. More frequent updates of permits will make it possible to check the biographical data of applicants more regularly and make sure that they continue to meet legal and security requirements.

According to USCIS Director Joseph Edlow, such a decision should increase the level of public safety and improve the quality of checks. The update is partly related to concerns that arose after a high-profile incident involving a foreign citizen in Washington.

Who has had the validity period of EADs reduced to 18 months?

Now the maximum validity period of initial and renewed EADs is 18 months (instead of the previous 5 years) for the following groups:

- Refugees;

- Asylum seekers;

- People with deferred deportation or removal;

- Applicants whose asylum cases are pending;

- Applicants awaiting green card (adjustment of status);

- Individuals with withholding of deportation, cancellation of removal, or NACARA benefits.

The rule applies to anyone whose EAD application is filed or pending on or after December 5, 2025.

Groups for whom EAD is reduced to one year

Following the passage of HR 1 of July 4, 2025, certain categories will receive work authorization for a maximum of one year or until the end of their parole or TPS period (whichever comes first):

- Paroled refugees;

- Temporary Protected Status (TPS) holders;

- Parolees;

- Applicants awaiting TPS decisions;

- Spouses of business owners who are paroled.

This rule applies to all Form I-765s filed or pending on or after July 22, 2025.

The reduction in the validity period of EADs in the United States means that many foreign workers will need to renew their documents more frequently. It is important to plan ahead when filing Form I-765 to avoid interruptions in employment and ensure continued access to legal work.

USCIS’ changes to the reduction in the validity period of EADs mean that workers in the United States will now need to renew their documents more frequently and monitor their application deadlines. To avoid delays, denials, or interruptions in employment, it is important to have a complete and properly prepared package of documents.

The Work Guide from Visit World is a detailed guide that includes step-by-step instructions for obtaining a work visa and work permit, an exact list of documents, examples of filling out forms, processing times and useful tips for adapting to the country.

The guide is designed specifically for expats and will help you confidently go through bureaucratic procedures in any country.

Get the guide and prepare your documents correctly the first time!

Reminder! The US has announced new immigration restrictions after the incident in Washington: a suspension of asylum processing, a large-scale review of green cards from 19 countries and increased security checks for all applicants. We have already told you who the changes apply to and what consequences to expect in 2025.

Photo – Freepik

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