Department of Homeland Security proposes changes to asylum applicant work authorization rules
Updated
Updated · Niskanen Center · Apr 27
Department of Homeland Security proposes changes to asylum applicant work authorization rules
14 articles · Updated · Niskanen Center · Apr 27
The proposed rule would delay initial work authorization eligibility to one year, extend USCIS processing times from 30 to 180 days, and require repeat biometrics for renewals.
The Niskanen Center criticizes these changes, arguing they create inefficiencies, harm genuine asylum seekers and businesses, and fail to address the root causes of asylum system backlogs.
The Center urges Congress and USCIS to focus on modernizing asylum processing and expanding legal employment pathways, warning that the proposed reforms could worsen economic and humanitarian challenges without reducing meritless claims.
How will this rule impact the already overwhelmed US immigration court system?
Will requiring repeat biometrics for renewals actually worsen existing USCIS backlogs?
What are the projected economic losses from this new work authorization delay?
Could expanding legal work visas be a more direct solution to labor demands?
What support will be available for applicants unable to work for over a year?