USCIS announced on 6/22/2020 a new rule that affects all asylum seekers in the United States. The new rule prevents aliens who, absent good cause, illegally entered the United States from obtaining employment authorization based on a pending asylum application. Additionally, the rule defines new bars and denials for employment authorization, such as for certain criminal behavior; extends the wait time before an asylum applicant can apply for employment authorization from 150 days to 365 calendar days; limits the employment authorization validity period to a maximum of two years; and automatically terminates employment authorization when an applicant’s asylum denial is administratively final.
The new rule will cause further hardship to asylum seekers in the U.S. who wish to work to support themselves and their families.

Posted in: Immigration