US Ends Automatic Work Permit Extensions for H-1B Spouses and International Students

In a major policy shift, the United States Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has ended the automatic extension of Employment Authorization Documents (EADs) for several visa categories, including spouses of H-1B visa holders (H-4) and international students on F-1 visas. The change, effective October 30, 2025, will impact thousands of skilled workers and their dependents, many of whom are of Indian origin.

Previously, individuals awaiting renewal of their EADs could continue working for up to 540 days while their applications were processed. Under the new rule, applicants must now wait for official approval before resuming employment, a move that could result in significant job interruptions amid existing processing backlogs that often stretch for months.

DHS said the decision aims to tighten vetting procedures and prevent potential misuse of the automatic extension system. However, immigration experts warn that the new rule could leave thousands of professionals and their families vulnerable to job loss and financial instability. Employers, particularly in the technology and healthcare sectors, also fear disruptions to productivity due to the stricter policy.

The change is expected to particularly affect Indian nationals, who account for more than 70% of H-1B visa holders in the US. Many Indian spouses working under H-4 EADs will now face uncertainty about maintaining their employment status, while F-1 students undergoing Optional Practical Training (OPT) may struggle to bridge employment gaps.

Critics argue that the move contradicts the US government’s goal of attracting global talent and could dissuade skilled professionals from choosing the country as a long-term destination. Immigration attorneys have urged affected individuals to file renewals as early as possible to minimize disruption. The policy marks one of the most consequential regulatory changes under the Trump administration’s renewed focus on tightening employment-based immigration.