US Ends Automatic Work Permit Extensions: Major Impact on Indian Professionals and H-1B Holders

The U.S. Department of Homeland Security has announced a significant policy change, ending the automatic extension of Employment Authorization Documents (EADs). Effective this Thursday, the previous provision allowing workers to continue employment for up to 540 days while awaiting EAD renewal approval has been revoked.

This critical shift eliminates the grace period, meaning that if a permit is not renewed before its expiry, individuals must immediately cease working and potentially leave the United States.

This policy primarily impacts a broad spectrum of visa holders, including H-1B visa holders, H-4 dependent spouses, students on STEM OPT, and green card applicants. A substantial number of those affected are Indian professionals, many of whom are already navigating lengthy visa backlogs.

While the U.S. immigration agency states the move aims for more frequent vetting of applicants, immigration experts warn of potential mass job losses and forced employment breaks.

Renewal approvals can typically take between three to twelve months, making the 180-day advance filing advised by USCIS a tight deadline that may not always prevent disruption. The new rule introduces further uncertainty for tens of thousands of Indian families residing in the US.