US ends automatic work permit extensions; students, spouses of H-1B holders to be hit

The United States Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has abruptly halted the automatic extension of certain Employment Authorisation Documents (EADs), effective Thursday, October 30 (US time).

- MPOST BUREAU

The sudden policy shift is expected to disrupt thousands of foreign workers, including H-1B visa holders’ spouses, F-1 students on Optional Practical Training (OPT), and asylum seekers, many of whom are Indian nationals.

Under the previous policy, applicants in specific categories were allowed to continue working legally while their EAD renewal applications were pending, provided they had filed them in time. The DHS stated that the new rule will now require all applicants to undergo fresh vetting and screening before their employment authorisation is renewed.