The US Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has abruptly ended the automatic extension of certain Employment Authorisation Documents (EADs ), effective Thursday, October 30 (US time). The overnight rule change affects H-1 visa holders' spouses, F-1 students on OPT, and asylum seekers, who may now face gaps in employment while their renewals are processed. The change is expected to significantly impact Indian workers, who make up the largest share of H-1B visa holders and international students.

Now, these foreign workers will undergo screening and vetting to have their employment authorisations renewed. DHS stated that the move aims to strengthen vetting procedures and prevent fraud.

During the Biden era, migrants in defined categories — including spouses of H-1B visa holders (H

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