H1-Bs and GC Applicants in U.S. Get Relief!

The US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has taken a significant step to address the persistent backlog in Employment Authorization Documents (EADs). They’ve extended the maximum validity period for certain EAD categories to five years.

This move has been well-received by US employers and immigrant workers, especially H-1B visa holders, many of whom come from India.

This policy change primarily benefits individuals with pending ‘Adjustment of Status Applications,’ which is the final step in the green card application process. It can be a lengthy process, often taking years.

During this period, applicants can obtain an EAD to continue working in the US. The new policy applies to eligible EAD applications filed on or after September 27, 2023.

Previously, EADs for Adjustment of Status applicants were valid for only two years, necessitating frequent renewals. This policy change is expected to reduce the need for extensions.

Other EAD categories eligible for five-year validity periods include asylees, refugees, noncitizens granted withholding of removal, those with pending asylum or withholding of removal applications, and those seeking suspension of deportation or cancellation of removal.