US Ends Automatic Work Permit Extensions, Indians on H-4, OPT Face Job Uncertainty Overnight

The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) announced that from October 30, automatic extensions of Employment Authorisation Documents (EADs) will no longer be valid. Earlier, applicants who filed renewals on time were allowed to keep working while their applications were processed. The change affects H-4 visa holders, F-1 students under OPT, and asylum seekers. DHS explained the new system will involve stronger vetting, arguing that it prevents fraud and ensures only properly screened individuals remain in the workforce. The move, however, is being seen as a sudden blow to many dependent on steady jobs.

Who Will Be Affected First?

The immediate impact will fall on spouses of H-1B workers, most of whom are Indian professionals in tech and healthcare. H-4 visa holders, many highly skilled themselves, have relied on EADs to contribute to family incomes. Now they face uncertainty, as even a delay in processing renewals could force them out of work. F-1 students, especially those in Optional Practical Training programs, are also at risk. Their internships and early career jobs could be interrupted if paperwork is not approved in time.

How Badly Will Students Suffer?

Indian students, the largest group of foreign students in the US, are especially exposed. In 2024 alone, over 422,000 Indian students were enrolled, representing 27% of all international students. For them, OPT is the bridge from education to employment. Without EAD extensions, even small delays in processing may end careers before they begin. For families investing huge sums in American education, this policy change has raised deep concerns. Many fear talented graduates could be forced to return home instead of contributing to the US economy.

Is India Hit the Hardest?

Yes, the numbers make it clear. India accounts for nearly 71% of H-1B visa approvals, while China follows at just 11.7%. With so many Indian workers and their families tied to H-1B and H-4 visas, any disruption in work authorisation hits Indian households the hardest. Many families are now preparing for a sudden loss of income, and employers worry about losing skilled talent. The ripple effects could spread from individual households to broader business sectors, especially technology companies that rely heavily on Indian professionals.

What About Asylum Seekers?

Asylum seekers with pending applications will also feel the shock of this change. They too will lose automatic EAD extensions, meaning they could face unemployment during renewal periods. However, categories like H-1B principals, L-1 transferees, O-1 visa holders, and green card holders remain unaffected. For them, work authorisation is either built into their visa or permanent. This uneven impact raises questions about fairness, especially when many asylum seekers depend on steady jobs while awaiting decisions on their legal status.

Why Did DHS Justify It?

DHS said the rule ensures stronger national security. By removing automatic extensions, officials claim they can re-check applicants more frequently. Their statement emphasised that working in the US is “a privilege, not a right.” They argue that regular vetting helps detect fraud, prevent misuse of the system, and identify individuals who might pose risks. While officials see this as a safeguard, critics believe it’s an overreach that unfairly punishes law-abiding workers who simply need their permits renewed on time.

What Must Workers Do Now?

USCIS has advised all workers to file renewals up to 180 days before their EAD expires. Any delay in filing could mean a forced break in employment, even if workers have jobs ready. Employers may hesitate to hire or extend contracts if work status is uncertain. For Indian families, especially in tech hubs like California and Texas, this adds stress. Many are rushing to immigration lawyers for guidance. The bigger worry is that talent may feel discouraged, forcing America to lose some of its brightest minds.