• Source:JND
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The United States has sharply reduced the validity of work permits for several categories of immigrants, triggering widespread concern among refugees, asylum seekers, and green card applicants dependent on temporary employment authorisation. Under a new policy announced by the Trump administration, the validity of Employment Authorisation Documents (EADs) has been cut from five years to just 18 months. 

The change, confirmed by US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), took effect from December 5, 2025, and applies to new and renewed applications filed under Form I-765. Previously, under a policy introduced in September 2023, eligible applicants were granted EADs valid for up to five years. Existing permits issued under the older rules will remain valid until their stated expiry dates.

National Security And Fraud Concerns Cited

USCIS said the revised timeframe is driven by national security and fraud-prevention priorities. Officials argued that more frequent renewals will enable tighter vetting of applicants, allowing authorities to better detect fraudulent claims and identify individuals who may pose security risks. The agency said shorter work permit durations would improve oversight and deter misuse of humanitarian protections.

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Green Card Applicants Most Affected

The policy particularly affects asylum seekers, refugees, and other immigrants with temporary or pending status, including thousands of green card applicants who rely on EADs while their adjustment-of-status applications are processed. The decision forms part of a broader series of immigration restrictions introduced by the Trump administration, including heightened scrutiny of applications and limits on migrants from countries considered “high risk”.

H-1B Holders Largely Unaffected

Foreign workers on H-1B visas will not be directly impacted, as those visas automatically grant employment authorisation. However, experts warn that the more frequent renewal requirements could worsen processing backlogs, leaving many applicants without legal permission to work while their cases remain pending. 

In a related move, USCIS has announced the creation of a specialised screening unit based in Atlanta to strengthen the agency’s ability to identify terrorists, criminal offenders, and individuals suspected of immigration fraud. The step reflects a wider push to tighten immigration enforcement and national security vetting.

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