Overall Purpose USCIS is ending the 2022 policy that automatically considered deferred action (and work authorization) for Special Immigrant Juveniles (SIJs) who cannot yet apply for a green card because a visa number is unavailable. The agency argues that automatic deferred action created security, integrity, and resource problems and was never required by law. Why USCIS Is Ending Automatic Deferred Action Deferred action is discretionary Deferred action is an extraordinary

New rules and proposed policy changes may significantly affect asylum-based work authorization. Currently, several changes have already impacted asylum seekers: Work permits issued after December 4, 2025 are now valid for 18 months instead of 5 years. Automatic extensions for many EAD renewals have ended, increasing the risk of gaps in employment authorization. Filing fees for initial and renewal work permits have increased. Because of these changes, delays can now create int