Overview
- USCIS cut the maximum validity of Employment Authorization Documents from five years to 18 months for many categories, applying to new and pending filings from early December, while previously issued cards keep their original dates.
- A prior rule ending certain automatic work-permit extensions took effect for eligible renewal applicants who filed on or after October 30, increasing the risk of gaps if renewals are not filed early.
- USCIS paused decisions on pending affirmative asylum applications, continuing to accept filings and hold interviews without granting or denying outcomes during the pause.
- Processing of specific benefits for nationals of 19 designated countries is suspended, including forms I-485, I-90, I-131 and I-751, with the agency conducting heightened case-by-case reviews.
- DHS Secretary Kristi Noem said the administration is evaluating expanding travel prohibitions to more than 30 countries, and USCIS separately warned overstays face removal while promoting the CBPHome 'Return Home' voluntary departure program.