What US Workers Should Know About USCIS Reducing EAD Validity Periods
For several candidates, USCIS has shortened the validity of their employment authorization documents. The majority of categories will now only be granted work authorization for a period of 18 months or a year. Anyone intending to work in the US should verify their eligibility and renewal deadlines as the change impacts both new and pending applications.
There is a crucial change you should be aware of if you intend to use an Employment Authorization Document (EAD) to work in the United States.
Many EAD cards now have shorter validity periods because to U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). The goal is to screen candidates more frequently so that only those who adhere to security and eligibility requirements can continue to work lawfully in the nation.
What This Actually Signifies
According to USCIS, the action is intended to enhance its screening procedure and lower fraud. The government intends to identify possible security risks early and make sure that all those permitted to work in the nation continue to fulfill all standards by conducting more frequent eligibility reviews.
According to USCIS Director Joseph Edlow, shortening the validity periods will enable more frequent background checks and contribute to public safety. Concerns expressed following a violent event involving a foreign national in Washington, D.C., prompted the update.
The following categories will once again have a maximum validity of 18 months rather than 5 years for both first-time and renewing Employment Authorization Documents (EADs):
Asylum-granting individuals
Individuals who are exempt from deportation or removal
Individuals whose asylum or withholding cases are still pending
Individuals whose applications for green cards (status modification) are pending
Individuals who are awaiting NACARA relief, cancellation of removal, or suspension of deportation
Anyone in these groups who has an EAD application pending or filed on or after December 5, 2025, is covered by this.
Even Shorter EADs Will Be Given to Other Groups
A bill passed on July 4, 2025 (H.R. 1) states that certain categories will only be valid for a year, or until the conclusion of their parole or TPS period if that period is shorter.
This has an impact on:
Refugees on parole
Temporary Protected Status (TPS) recipients
Individuals given parole
Individuals whose TPS application is still pending
Spouses of parolees who are entrepreneurs
Any Form I-765 that is pending or filed on or after July 22, 2025 is subject to these regulations.
Concluding Remarks
Be prepared for more frequent renewals if you fall into one of these categories. Making a plan in advance will help you avoid job gaps, particularly if you are temporarily employed in the United States.
