The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has introduced a significant update to enhance the employment authorization process for noncitizens. A new temporary final rule (TFR) extends the automatic extension period for certain Employment Authorization Documents (EADs) from up to 180 days to a staggering 540 days.
This change is designed to prevent disruptions for noncitizens already authorized to work in the U.S. and ensure operational continuity for employers.
Key Highlights:
- Extended EAD Renewal Period: The automatic extension for certain EADs will now last up to 540 days, up from the previous 180 days.
- Reduced Processing Times: Over the past year, USCIS has cut processing times for most EAD categories by half, especially those with pending green card applications.
- Record Application Numbers: Despite processing a record number of applications, the demand has prompted USCIS to adopt this temporary measure.
- Support for Work-Authorized Individuals: This move is part of the Biden-Harris Administration's efforts to support the economic contribution of work-authorized non-citizens.
- Public Feedback Sought: USCIS invites public comments to inform long-term strategies and improvements.
This temporary extension applies to eligible applicants who filed an EAD renewal application after October 27, 2023. It is designed to prevent nearly 800,000 EAD holders from losing their work authorization due to processing delays. The measure reflects USCIS's commitment to streamlining employment verification processes and supporting the U.S. workforce and economy.
For detailed information on the TFR and to provide Feedback, visit the Automatic Employment Authorization Document Extension page on the USCIS website.
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