A group of 70 Democratic lawmakers are asking the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) to fix the immigrant employment authorization backlog before President Biden’s term ends. They want DHS to provide more resources and make the adjucication process faster. Right now, there are 1.4 million work authorization applications, known as EADs, waiting to be processed, even after previous attempts to reduce the backlog.

EADs allow noncitizens, including asylum seekers and refugees, to work temporarily in the U.S. These permits need to be renewed. USCIS predicts that the number of applications for EADs could double by 2025 compared to 2022.

The Biden administration has tried to help ease the backlog by extending the validity of EADs for qualifying individuals and offering online filing options for some. However, the automatic extension period from 180 days to 540 days for expiring work permits is set to end in October 2025. Lawmakers believe more action is needed before then.

The group highlights that USCIS has been allocated $34 million for the backlog in the 2024 budget. They suggest using this money to improve technology and hire more staffing including contractors and approving overtime. They also recommend extending the automatic approval period to two years and allowing renewal applications even if they are submitted after the EAD expires. Other suggestions are made as well.

If you have questions about the immigrant work authorization backlog or any U.S. immigration issue, please reach out to us. Our experienced attorneys and staff take great pride in supporting our clients every step of the way through their immigration journey.