Thousands of Indian professionals in the United States may soon lose their jobs due to a new rule by the US Department of Homeland Security (DHS).
From October 30, 2025, the US government will end automatic extensions of Employment Authorisation Documents (EADs) — these are the official work permits that allow non-US citizens to work in the country.
What’s Changing
Until now, if someone’s work permit expired, they could continue working for up to 540 days while their renewal was being processed.
But under the new rule, workers must stop working immediately if their renewed EAD is not approved before the old one expires.
The DHS said the new system will help with better checking and vetting of foreign workers.
“Working in the United States is a privilege, not a right,” said USCIS Director Joseph Edlow.
ho Will Be Most Affected
This change will mostly affect Indians, who make up a large part of the expat workforce in the US.
Groups at risk include:
H-1B visa holders waiting for green cards
H-4 visa holders (spouses of H-1B workers) who need EADs to work
Students on STEM OPT extensions
Green card applicants with pending cases
Because many of these people already face long waiting times — sometimes over 20 years — the rule adds more stress and uncertainty.
