USCIS Reduces Maximum Validity of Employment Authorization Documents (EADs)
As of December 5, 2025, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services has significantly reduced the maximum validity period for Employment Authorization Documents (EADs) from 5 years to 18 months for multiple immigration categories, citing enhanced security and vetting needs.
The 18-month limit now applies to foreign nationals:
Admitted as refugees or granted asylum
Granted withholding of deportation or removal
With pending applications for asylum or withholding of removal
With pending applications for adjustment of status under INA 245
With pending applications for suspension of deportation or cancellation of removal.
Additionally, under the Big Beautiful Bill (H.R. 1), the maximum validity period for initial and renewal EADs in certain categories is capped at one year. Alternatively, the limit is the end date of the authorized parole period or the duration of Temporary Protected Status (TPS), whichever comes first. This change will affect foreign nationals:
Paroled as refugees
Granted parole or TPS
With pending TPS applicants
This change comes after USCIS eliminated automatic EAD extensions in October 2025, increasing the higher risk of work authorization gaps. It will also cause more frequent renewal applications and higher cumulative filing fees and legal costs.
USCIS allows EAD holders to file renewal applications 180 days before their EADs expire. If you currently hold an EAD, carefully track your expiration date to ensure timely filing of an EAD renewal application.
Should you have any questions regarding your Employment Authorization Document, please do not hesitate to contact the Law Office of Adrienne Vaughan.