The increase is only applicable to EAD categories already eligible for an automatic 180-day extension and temporarily offers up to 360 days of additional work authorization. Individuals who timely file to renew their EAD between October 27, 2023 and September 30, 2025 will receive a 540-day extension of work authorization. This extension is calculated by adding 540 to the expiration date on the face of the EAD itself.

Automatic extensions will generally end upon notification of a final decision on the renewal application or the end of the up to 540-day period, whichever occurs first.

In the Federal Register notice, available here, USCIS announced that it is soliciting comments on the benefits of making this duration - 540 days - permanent.

Beginning on April 8, 2024 and through September 30, 2025, if a new hire or existing employee presents an expiring EAD showing category code A03, A05, A07, A08, A10, A12, A17, A18, A19, C08, C09, C10, C16, C19, C20, C22, C24, C26, or C31 AND a Form I-797C showing:

1. A received date prior to the card’s facial expiration date (or, in the case of an EAD showing category code A12 or C19, the TPS designation end date, which can be found here); AND
2. The same category code (except A12 or C19, which are interchangeable), THEN

The EAD's validity period will be extended for 540 days from the expiration date listed on the face of the EAD itself.

Employers are encouraged to review the specific terms of the extension as issued by USCIS and subsequently conduct an internal assessment of documentation, workflows and associated protocols to ensure compliance with the TFR.

Posted: April 4, 2024