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DHS Ends 540-Day Automatic Work-Permit Extensions, Triggering Renewal Scramble

Officials say the rollback follows security reviews tied to a Trump order.

Overview

  • As of October 30, automatic 540-day extensions no longer apply to EAD renewals, and workers with expired cards must wait for approval before returning to their jobs.
  • Immigration attorneys and AILA warn of suspensions and layoffs as employers enforce work-authorization rules and face operational strain.
  • Asylum applicants, TPS holders, and people adjusting status are cited as the most exposed groups, with lawyers urging immediate renewal filings, especially when less than six months remain.
  • USCIS indicates the change is not retroactive, so extensions issued before October 30 remain valid for their stated duration.
  • DACA recipients can keep renewing on the usual timeline, and emergency or expedited EAD requests exist but are narrow and typically require attorney-supported evidence.