The U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has announced a significant policy change that ends the automatic extension of Employment Authorization Documents (EADs) for most renewal applicants. The new rule will take effect on October 30, 2025, and could impact thousands of immigrant workers and their employers across the United States.
- No automatic renewal: Individuals filing a Form I-765 (Application for Employment Authorization) renewal on or after October 30, 2025, will no longer receive automatic work authorization while their renewal is pending.
- Reason for the change: DHS stated that this rule is intended to ensure more frequent vetting of applicants and to strengthen national security oversight.
- Limited exceptions: Certain categories, such as those covered under Temporary Protected Status (TPS) or specified by Federal Register notices, may still qualify for extensions.
- Impact on applicants: Renewal applicants who do not receive their new EADs before their current cards expire will lose their work authorization until their renewal is approved.
Impact on Applicants and Employers
This policy shift increases the risk of employment authorization gaps for thousands of noncitizens who depend on timely EAD renewals. Employers will also face new compliance challenges under Form I-9 employment verification rules.
- For employees: You must now ensure that your renewal is approved before your current EAD expires. Filing early up to 180 days before expiration is strongly recommended.
- For employers: Verify all EAD expiration dates carefully and review internal procedures to avoid inadvertent employment of individuals with expired authorization.
This change could particularly impact:
- Spouses and dependents of H-1B and L visa holders
- Individuals with pending Adjustment of Status (Green Card) applications
- Workers under Deferred Action, DACA, or Humanitarian Parole programs
How Gehi & Associates Can Help
At Gehi & Associates, we are already reviewing the implications of this DHS rule for our clients across different visa categories. Our experienced immigration attorneys can:
- Evaluate your eligibility and filing timelines
- Help you prepare and submit EAD renewal applications promptly
- Advise on maintaining lawful work status during processing delays
- Guide employers on compliance under the new rule
Stay Compliant with Timely Legal Guidance
The end of automatic EAD extensions marks a major shift in U.S. immigration policy. As processing times remain unpredictable, timely preparation and legal guidance are more critical than ever.
If your EAD renewal or work authorization is approaching expiration, contact Gehi & Associates today to discuss your case and ensure uninterrupted work authorization.
Call us today or visit www.gehilaw.com to schedule a FREE consultation.
