US Cuts Work Permit Duration from 5 Years to 18 Months in Major Immigration Overhaul

The Trump administration has announced a significant tightening of US immigration rules, slashing the maximum duration of work permits from five years to just 18 months. The change applies to refugees and other legally protected immigrants seeking employment authorization in the United States.

Reason for the Change

According to the US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), the move aims to increase the frequency of security checks and ensure that foreign workers do not pose public safety risks or propagate anti-American sentiments.

The announcement cites last week’s attack on two National Guard members in Washington, D.C. as a key factor highlighting the need for more regular oversight. USCIS Director Joseph Adlo emphasized that this step will allow the agency to monitor foreign nationals more closely and prevent potential threats.

Who Is Affected

Under the new rules:

• Refugees and immigrants with pending asylum or green card applications will receive Employment Authorization Documents (EADs) valid for 18 months, down from the previous 5-year term.
• Temporary Protected Status (TPS) holders, parolees, and related categories will see their work permit validity reduced to one year or less, based on the duration of their authorized stay.

When the Changes Take Effect

The new regulations apply immediately to all pending and future Form I-765 applications filed on or after 5 December 2025. USCIS officials noted that shorter work permit durations allow for more frequent renewals, helping identify security risks sooner and reducing the long gaps caused by the previous five-year validity.

Concerns and Criticism

Critics warn that this major policy shift could impact thousands of immigrants, especially those with already pending applications. Frequent renewals every 18 months may exacerbate backlogs in an immigration system already struggling with delays.

While the administration frames the change as a necessary security measure, opponents argue it could create additional hurdles for lawful immigrants seeking stability and employment in the United States.