USCIS has updated its Policy Manual to reduce the maximum validity periods for Employment Authorization Documents (EADs) for certain categories of noncitizens. The change reflects recent legislation and is intended to ensure frequent vetting of individuals authorized to work in the United States.

“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,” said Director Joseph Edlow.

The maximum validity period for initial and renewal EADs will be changed from 5 years to 18 months for several categories of aliens:

• Aliens admitted as refugees;
• Aliens granted asylum;
• Aliens granted withholding of deportation or removal;
• Aliens with pending applications for asylum or withholding of removal;
• Aliens with pending applications for adjustment of status under INA 245; and
• Aliens with pending applications for suspension of deportation, cancellation of removal, or relief under the Nicaraguan Adjustment and Central American Relief Act.

This change affects EAD applications filed or pending on or after December 5, 2025. Shorter validity periods will allow USCIS to conduct more frequent reviews to detect fraud and identify individuals who may pose risks to public safety.

Additionally, under H.R. 1 – the One Big Beautiful Bill Act, signed into law on July 4, 2025, the maximum EAD validity for certain categories will be one year or the shorter of the authorized parole period or Temporary Protected Status (TPS) duration. This applies to aliens paroled as refugees, individuals granted TPS or parole, those with pending TPS applications, and spouses of entrepreneurs under parole. These rules apply to EAD applications filed or pending on or after July 22, 2025.

Employers and noncitizens should plan for more frequent renewals to avoid gaps in work authorization. Staying updated on USCIS announcements is essential for maintaining compliance. For assistance with EAD applications, renewals, or guidance on how these changes may affect your status, contact our office at 703-348-1663.

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