USCIS Policy Change Reduces Work Permit Validity for Many ImmigrantsEffective December 5, 2025

USCIS has announced an important policy change that will impact thousands of immigrants who rely on employment authorization to support themselves and their families while their cases are pending or after they have been granted protection in the United States.

Under the updated USCIS Policy Manual, the maximum validity period for certain employment authorization documents (EADs), commonly known as work permits, will be reduced from five years to 18 months. This change officially goes into effect December 5, 2025.

📌 Statement from USCIS Director Joseph Edlow stated:

“Reducing the maximum validity period for employment authorization will ensure that those seeking to work in the United States do not threaten public safety or promote harmful anti-American ideologies. After the attack on National Guard service members in our nation’s capital by an alien who was admitted into this country by the previous administration, it’s even more clear that USCIS must conduct frequent vetting of aliens.”

This reasoning highlights increased security monitoring and more frequent review of individuals with pending or granted immigration relief. However, it also creates new burdens for many who are legally permitted to work in the U.S.

📍 Who Will Be Affected?

The reduced 18-month validity applies to the following categories:

ategory	Description
(a)(3)	Refugees
(a)(5)	Individuals granted asylum (Asylees)
(a)(10)	Individuals granted withholding of removal
(c)(8)	Individuals with asylum applications pending
(c)(9)	Individuals with adjustment of status (green card) applications pending
(c)(10)	Individuals with pending cancellation of removal (non-LPR)

💵 Increased Costs and Renewal Burdens

Reducing the validity period from 5 years to 18 months means that affected individuals will need to renew more frequently, leading to:

• More frequent filing fees

• Greater financial strain, especially for asylum seekers and low-income families

• Long-term uncertainty for those already waiting years for a final decision

This change comes at a time when USCIS filing fees have already increased significantly, further impacting vulnerable populations who depend on employment authorization to survive.

🤝 We’re Here to Help

At O’Brien Law Group, we understand the frustration and anxiety caused by frequent policy changes. If your work permit is expiring soon, or if you’re unsure how this update affects you, our team is ready to help you review your case and navigate your renewal options.

📞 Call: 502.400.7890

📱 Text: 502.795.1870

✉️ Email: sean@olglawyers.com

📅 Schedule Online: https://calendly.com/admin-robrienlaw/appointment

Your right to work and support your family matters. We’re here to help!