US Work Permit Rule Updates: US ends automatic work permit extensions Today October 30, 2025, thousands of Indian workers hit | Immigration News

 

“There are limited exceptions to this rule, including extensions provided by law or through a Federal Register notice for TPS-related employment documentation,” the Department said.

 

USCIS calls it a ‘common sense’ measure

 

The US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) said the move would strengthen its ability to detect fraud and identify individuals with “potentially harmful intent.”

 

Calling the policy a “common sense” measure, USCIS Director Joseph Edlow said, “Working in the US is a privilege, not a right.”

 

The agency has advised foreign workers to file renewal applications up to 180 days before their current work authorisation expires. “The longer an alien waits to file an EAD renewal application, the more likely it is that they may experience a temporary lapse in their employment authorisation or documentation,” the statement said.

 

Wider tightening of immigration rules

 

The announcement comes amid a series of immigration policy shifts under President Donald Trump. In September, the administration increased the H-1B visa fee to $100,000 (around Rs 88 lakh), saying it would ensure that only “highly skilled” professionals enter the US job market.

 

“We need workers. We need great workers, and this pretty much ensures that that’s what’s going to happen,” Trump said.

 

The new fee does not apply to individuals already in the US who are changing their visa status, such as students moving from an F-1 visa to an H-1B.

 

In a related move, Florida Governor Ron DeSantis on Wednesday directed universities across the country to prioritise hiring American workers and end the practice of bringing in foreign staff under H-1B visas.