Overview
- The Department of Homeland Security ended automatic extensions for certain Employment Authorization Document renewals on October 30, leaving many applicants without temporary work authorization during pending reviews unless covered by the prior 540‑day policy.
- USCIS cautioned that photos submitted with filings must be unedited and meet strict specifications, warning that noncompliant images can trigger processing delays and in‑person identity checks.
- Under Executive Order 14159, noncitizens who remain in the U.S. more than 30 days must complete a registration that includes biometrics or face potential civil and criminal penalties, with specified exemptions outlined by DHS and USCIS.
- USCIS reiterates that naturalization generally requires five years of continuous residence and 30 months of physical presence, and advises that prolonged or frequent travel can disrupt eligibility, with reentry permits (Form I‑131) and Form N‑470 available for limited situations.
- Permanent residents may work without a separate EAD because the Green Card serves as proof of employment authorization, while USCIS continues I‑90 renewal processing amid a record pending caseload reported at about 11.3 million even as officials tout efficiency gains.