A new policy from the Trump administration could leave thousands of immigrants at risk of losing their jobs while waiting for work permit renewals.
Policy Shift Eliminates Automatic Extensions
Previously, immigrants were allowed to continue working automatically upon submitting a renewal application for their employment authorization. Under the new rule, effective Thursday, that automatic extension is eliminated. Immigrants must now wait until U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) approves their renewal before continuing to work.
Delays Could Leave Thousands Jobless
Processing backlogs at USCIS mean approvals can take months, putting many immigrants at risk of unemployment once their permits expire. Although renewal applications can be filed up to six months in advance, approvals often lag well beyond that timeframe.
Experts warn that the change could result in widespread job losses and increased exploitation. “The change will have devastating effects on businesses who will lose valuable employees and on workers who will lose their authorization to support themselves and their families,” said Lucas Guttentag, a Stanford law professor.
Who Is Affected
The new rule applies to asylees, refugees, and spouses of certain visa holders. Those who received an extension before October 30 will not be affected.
Criticism of DHS Justification
The Department of Homeland Security says the change aims to ensure “proper screening and vetting” before extending work authorizations. However, immigration advocates note that renewal applicants have already undergone extensive vetting.
“These are workers that have the legal right to work in this country … they’ve been vetted, they’ve gone through the background checks,” said Victor Narro, Project Director at the UCLA Labor Center.
Broader Immigration Crackdown
Experts view the move as part of a broader effort by the Trump administration to create a more hostile environment for immigrants.
“This is another tool in the process of the Trump administration’s effort to get people to self-deport,” Narro added.
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