ALERT – As of October 30, 2025, DHS will no longer automatically extend work permits while renewal applications are pending.
WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW:
Noncitizens with certain categories of work permits previously had their permits extended when they applied to renew the permit, so long as the renewal application was filed before the current permit expired. Since the COVID-19 pandemic, many permits were automatically extended by up to 540 days. This policy enabled noncitizens who timely applied to renew their work permits to continue working with authorization and prevented them from being “punished” by long processing times at USCIS if they applied to renew their permits on time.
However, the U.S. Government on October 29, 2025 announced that, effective October 30, it would not longer issue automatic extensions for work permits.
HOW THIS AFFECTS YOU:
If you already applied to renew your work permit before your current one expired and received notice of an auto-extension, that extension is still valid. You may continue to work with authorization while you wait for the government to make a decision on your renewal application. Your receipt notice (with the auto-extension language in the body) and your expired work permit are proof of your continued eligibility to work.
However, if you now apply to renew your work permit, it will not be extended while you wait for USCIS to review your renewal application. This means that you need to prepare to file your renewal application as soon as possible. The government accepts renewal applications up to 180 days (six months) before your permit expires. Because many work permit application fees have also increased recently, it’s very important that you plan ahead to avoid a lapse in your work authorization.
The information provided in this blog post is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Laws and regulations may change, and their application can vary based on specific facts or circumstances. You should not rely on this information as a substitute for legal counsel.
If you have questions about how these updates may affect you, please consult with a qualified attorney or legal professional.