USCIS slashes work permit validity from 5 years to 18 months for noncitizens citing security concerns
Agency says shorter windows will force more frequent background checks to detect fraud and security threats
By
Greg WehnerFox NewsPublished
December 4, 2025 2:56pm ESTclose
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U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) is shortening how long Employment Authorization Documents (EADs) remain valid, cutting it from five years to just 18 months.
The agency announced Thursday that the shorter work-permit windows will force more frequent background checks on noncitizens working in the U.S., which officials argue will help detect fraud, identity security threats and remove individuals who pose a risk.
The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) said officers must consider the positive contributions of applicants moving forward as part of a holistic approach. (Robert Nickelsberg / Getty Images)
"Reducing the maximum validity period for employment authorization will ensure that those seeking to work in the United States do not threaten public safety or promote harmful anti-American ideologies," Director Joseph Edlow said. "After the attack on National Guard service members in our nation’s capital by an alien who was admitted into this country by the previous administration, it’s even more clear that USCIS must conduct frequent vetting of aliens."
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Greg Wehner is a breaking news reporter for Fox News Digital.
Story tips and ideas can be sent to Greg.Wehner@Fox.com and on Twitter @GregWehner.
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