On December 4, 2025, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) announced an update to its Policy Manual, reducing the maximum validity period for Employment Authorization Documents (EADs) for several categories of foreign nationals. This change, effective for applications pending or filed on or after December 5, 2025, is intended to increase the frequency of vetting and screening for those authorized to work in the United States. https://www.uscis.gov/sites/default/files/document/policy-manual-updates/20251204-EmploymentAuthorizationValidity.pdf
What Changed?
USCIS has shortened the maximum validity period for initial and renewal EADs from five years to 18 months for the following categories:
- Refugees
- Individuals granted asylum
- Those granted withholding of deportation or removal
- Applicants with pending asylum or withholding of removal
- Applicants with pending adjustment of status under INA 245
- Applicants with pending suspension of deportation, cancellation of removal, or relief under the Nicaraguan Adjustment and Central American Relief Act.
[Source: EAD shortened | PDF]
Additionally, under the H.R. 1 - One Big Beautiful Bill Act (Public Law 119-21), signed July 4, 2025, the validity period for EADs is now one year or the end date of the authorized parole period or Temporary Protected Status (TPS), whichever is shorter, for:
- Foreign nationals paroled as refugees
- Foreign nationals granted TPS
- Foreign nationals granted parole
- Foreign nationals with a pending TPS application
- Spouse of entrepreneur parole
[Source: EAD shortened | PDF]
Why the Change?
According to USCIS, the stated purpose of this policy is to enable more frequent vetting and screening of individuals authorized to work in the United States. The agency asserts that regular renewals will:
- Deter fraud by making it harder to maintain authorization under false pretenses
- Help identify individuals who may pose a threat to public safety or national security
- Allow for timely removal proceedings if necessary
It is important to note, however, that many applicants for employment authorization are law-abiding individuals seeking to contribute to the workforce. The need for increased formal vetting, as described by USCIS, may not reflect the reality for the majority of foreign nationals applying for EADs.
Who Is Affected?
This policy affects foreign nationals with EAD applications pending or filed on or after December 5, 2025, in the categories listed above. For those under H.R. 1, the new validity periods apply to Form I-765 applications pending or filed on or after July 22, 2025.
Practical Implications
- More Frequent Renewals: Applicants in affected categories will need to renew their EADs more often, increasing administrative workload and the need for timely application tracking.
- Additional Vetting: Each renewal will trigger a new round of vetting, which may impact processing times and outcomes.
- Legal and Compliance Considerations: Employers and immigration attorneys should update their compliance protocols and advise clients accordingly.
Resources
For more details, visit the official USCIS Employment Authorization Document page and follow USCIS on social media for updates.
Conclusion:
While USCIS frames this policy shift as a measure to enhance security and public safety, it also means more frequent paperwork and administrative hurdles for applicants and their representatives. Many in the immigration community question whether increased vetting is necessary for the majority of EAD applicants. Staying informed and proactive will be key to navigating these changes smoothly.