Key Highlights
- USCIS announced a new policy on Employment Authorization Documents (EADs) effective December 5, 2025.
- The validity period for EADs will be reduced from five years to 18 months.
- This change impacts green card applicants and can lead to increased filing fees and administrative steps.
- USCIS cites the need for frequent vetting as a reason for this policy shift.
New USCIS Policy on Employment Authorization Documents (EADs)
The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) announced a significant change to the Employment Authorization Document (EAD), commonly known as a work permit, effective December 5, 2025. This policy shift will have substantial implications for immigrants living in the United States, particularly those applying for green cards.
Reduction in Validity Period
The new policy reduces the maximum validity period of EADs from five years to 18 months. According to Business Insider, this change is likely to result in more frequent renewals, which will bring extra filing fees and paperwork for green card applicants.
Impact on Green Card Applicants
This policy shift is particularly significant for green card applicants who work with an EAD while their application is pending. The increased frequency of renewals could lead to job stability issues if processing times remain long. Employers will also need to update their compliance procedures to account for more frequent I-9 re-verifications.
According to USCIS Director Joseph Edlow, the new policy aims to ensure that those seeking to work in the United States do not threaten public safety or promote harmful anti-American ideologies. This decision follows an attack on West Virginia National Guard members by an Afghan national granted asylum earlier this year.
Preparation for Renewals
To navigate these changes, green card applicants should prepare as follows:
- Apply for EAD renewal as soon as possible (USCIS allows filing up to 180 days before the EAD expires).
- Prepare all supporting documentation in advance, such as a passport, I-485 receipt, and previous EAD.
- Budget for more frequent filing fees. Currently, it can cost up to $605 per renewal, though green card applicants may benefit from a discounted fee.
Employers will also need to update their compliance procedures to account for these changes. The USCIS encourages affected individuals to seek legal counsel or check the USCIS website for the latest guidance.
Expert Opinions
“Reducing validity to 18 months could further strain USCIS processing capacity and create gaps in work authorization for lawful applicants who have long been waiting for permanent residency,” said Rahul Reddy, founding partner of Reddy Neumann Brown, in a statement to SHRM.
Reddy’s comments highlight the potential challenges that this policy change may present. Employers and workers alike will need to plan accordingly to ensure compliance with these new requirements.
Conclusion
The USCIS’s decision to reduce the validity period of EADs for green card applicants reflects a broader push to re-vet foreign nationals more frequently. This policy shift is likely to affect thousands of individuals, requiring them to manage increased paperwork and potential employment gaps. As always, it is crucial for affected individuals to stay informed and seek guidance from legal experts or the USCIS.
