On December 4, 2025, USCIS issued a new policy reducing how long some categories of work permits will be valid from 5 years to 18 months.
WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW
- The change affects new applications for work permits that are filed or pending on or after December 5, 2025.
- The new policy applies to the following types of work permits:
- admitted as refugee (category (a)(3))
- granted asylum (category (a)(5))
- granted withholding of deportation or removal (category (a)(10))
- with pending applications for asylum or withholding of removal (category (c)(8))
- with pending applications for adjustment of status under INA 245 (category (c)(9))
- with pending applications for suspension of deportation, cancellation of removal, or relief under the Nicaraguan Adjustment and Central American Relief Act (category (c)(10))
HOW THIS AFFECTS YOU
- If you already have a work permit, this change does not affect you and your permit will be valid until the expiration date listed on your card, unless something changes in your case.
- This applies to applicants whose cases are pending before both USCIS and the Immigration Courts (EOIR).
- Because USCIS recently ended automatic extensions while work permit renewals are pending, you should plan to file your renewal application as soon as possible after you receive your work permit. Remember, USCIS will not accept work permit renewal applications more than six months before the permit is set to expire.