The BRICS TimesThis move by the Trump administration is set to heavily impact Indian nationals. They form a large portion of the US immigrant workforce. Many are already struggling with pending visa issues.
DHS Introduces Major Change
The US Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has made a significant policy change. Thousands of Indian professionals and their dependents now risk losing their work permits. This will happen if their employment authorization renewal is not approved promptly. This new rule became effective on Thursday, October 30, 2025.
Automatic Extensions are Ending
The new regulation eliminates the automatic extension of Employment Authorization Documents (EADs). Consequently, non-US citizens will be unable to continue working there. DHS stated that foreigners applying to renew their EAD on or after October 30, 2025, will no longer receive this automatic extension.
Foreigners to Face Multiple Screenings
Ending the automatic EAD extension means that foreigners seeking work in the US will now undergo multiple screenings. Previously, employees could keep working for up to 540 days. This was valid while their renewal applications were pending approval. Under the new rule, if a person’s renewal is not approved before their current EAD expires, they must immediately stop working.
US Department of Homeland Security Clarifies
A DHS statement advised non-Americans to file their EAD renewal applications correctly and on time. They should apply 180 days before their current EAD expires. The longer a foreigner takes to file the EAD renewal application, the greater the chance of a temporary lapse in their employment authorization or documentation.
Threat to Indian Nationals
This Trump administration decision is expected to have a significant effect on Indian nationals. They are a large segment of the US immigrant labor force. Many are already stuck in backlogs for Green Cards and other visas. Senior Counsel Henry Lindpere noted that this rule represents a major shift in how employment authorization is renewed in the US. The categories affecting Indians include OPT students, H-4 visa holders, and Green Card applicants.
