USCIS Ends Automatic Work Permit Extensions
USCIS Ends Automatic Work Permit Extensions – What This Means for You
USCIS recently announced an important policy change that will affect many individuals who rely on work permits, also known as Employment Authorization Documents (EADs). Starting October 30, 2025, the automatic extension that was previously granted when certain renewal applications were filed on time will no longer apply.
Until now, many EAD holders could continue working while their renewal was still being processed, as long as they filed the renewal application before their current card expired. This “automatic extension” gave applicants up to 540 additional days of work authorization while they waited for USCIS to approve the new card. But under the new rule, that cushion will end. Any renewal applications filed on or after October 30, 2025, will not receive an automatic extension, meaning that once your card expires, your work authorization ends unless the new EAD has already been approved.
This change will not affect extensions that were already granted before the effective date or those covered by special programs such as Temporary Protected Status (TPS). However, for most people with pending or upcoming EAD renewals, this is a significant adjustment that requires careful planning.
What This Means in Reality
In practical terms, if your EAD expires and you have not filed your renewal early enough to qualify under the old rule, you must stop working once your card expires. Continuing to work beyond that date would count as unauthorized employment, which can create serious issues in your immigration record. This is especially important if you plan to apply for a green card through a family preference or employment-based category, because unauthorized employment can make you ineligible to adjust your status inside the U.S.
Why You Need to Plan Ahead
Since this policy change, everyone with an EAD must be extra mindful of their EAD expiration date. You can file a renewal application up to 180 days before your current EAD expires, and it’s strongly recommended to do so as early as possible. Filing early gives USCIS time to process your case before your current card runs out, reducing the risk of a work gap.
If your EAD renewal is delayed and your current card expires after the new rule takes effect, you will have to stop working until your renewal is approved and your new card arrives. Keeping track of your EAD expiration and filing early is now more important than ever.
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Disclaimer: This blog is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. For guidance specific to your situation, please consult an attorney. Immigration Law Office of Amy Chung, PLLC, is NOT responsible for any decisions made based on the information provided on our website without the firm’s legal representation. Legal representation is only established upon the mutual signing of a Legal Services Agreement and the prospective client’s payment of the required attorney's fee.