DHS to End Automatic Extensions of Some Employment Authorization Documents
Introduction
On Oct. 30, 2025, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security posted an interim final rule immediately ending the practice of automatically extending the validity of employment authorization documents (EADs) for applicants who have filed a renewal of their EAD in certain categories.
Previously, applicants who filed for a renewal of their EAD with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services were automatically granted an extension on the validity of the current EAD if their renewal application was timely filed with USCIS. This practice protected applicants from a lapse in work authorization when USCIS processing times extended beyond the expiration date of the current EAD.
Members of the UIC international community potentially affected by this interim final rule may include some individuals applying for a change of status, some dependent spouses with work authorization, and individuals in Refugee, Asylee, or Temporary Protected Status (TPS).
International students in F-1 status who are applying for a STEM extension to their 12-month optional practical training EAD are not impacted by this interim final rule.
The Department of Homeland Security is accepting public comment on this rule until Dec. 1, 2025. Read the full rule and find instructions on how to submit a public comment at the U.S. Federal Register.
Anyone with questions about this announcement is encouraged to contact an OIS advisor or reach out to OIS generally at ois@uic.edu or (312) 996-3121. Our office hours are Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. If someone is experiencing a travel-related immigration emergency outside of these hours, they may use the OIS After-Hours Emergency Contact.
Please note that the information shared in this message is intended for educational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice.