US work permit: US extends work permit duration for Nigerians and foreign workers
The United States has extended the automatic extension period for Employment Authorization Documents (EADs) from 180 days to a maximum of 540 days. This revision aims to alleviate delays and maintain employment authorization for Nigerians and other foreign nationals, as stated by the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).
USCIS states that the review applies to eligible applicants who have submitted EAD renewal applications on time, starting from October 27, 2023, until September 30, 2025.
USCIS Director Ur M. Jaddou stressed the importance of this program in minimizing disruptions in employment authorization for non-citizens waiting for their EAD renewal applications to be processed. The extension, now up to 540 days, offers increased stability for both foreign workers and their employers, ensuring continuity in the workforce.
"In the past year, the USCIS team has worked to shorten processing times for most EAD categories, aiming to enhance work accessibility for eligible individuals. However, we've also seen a surge in employment authorization applications, affecting our renewal processes," stated Jaddou.
"The temporary extension of the existing automatic extension up to 540 days aims to prevent interruptions in employment authorizations. Additionally, this rule allows DHS to explore long-term solutions by seeking public input and identifying new strategies to ensure eligible noncitizens can maintain their employment authorization," the statement noted.
This Temporary Final Rule (TFR) is part of USCIS's ongoing efforts to streamline the work authorization process and enhance access to employment opportunities for authorized individuals in the US. The extended validity period is expected to benefit a significant number of EAD renewal applicants, including asylum seekers and Temporary Protected Status holders. It is estimated that this initiative could positively impact nearly 800,000 individuals and their employers.
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