The US Has Officially Ended Automatic Extensions of Work Permits (EAD)
If you’re renewing your work permit, your old card no longer extends on its own. File early.
Important news for anyone working in the US on an EAD — for example, while waiting for a green card.
On October 14, 2026, a final rule took effect: if you filed to renew your EAD on or after October 30, 2025, your old card is no longer automatically extended while your application is pending. It used to stay valid for up to 540 days — for most categories, that’s no longer the case.
What you need to know:
- the rule doesn’t cancel extensions for applications filed before October 30, 2025;
- some categories aren’t affected — for example, spouses of E and L visa holders.
My advice: file for renewal as early as you can so you’re never left without the right to work. If you’re not sure whether this applies to you, check with an immigration attorney.
Source: Federal Register, document 2026-20955
Rules and deadlines may change — always check the official source.
Kristina Samofal
Photo & Video Production