Washington, DC – The Trump administration announced on Friday a proposed rule that could suspend work permits for asylum seekers for several years. This move represents one of the most significant changes to the asylum seeker work permit system in decades.
Details of the proposed regulations
The regulation, issued by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, seeks to reduce incentives for migrants to apply for asylum in order to obtain legal work permits. It also aims to lower the processing time for these applications and increase security vetting, according to Reuters. The amendments include suspending the processing of work permits for all new applicants until the average asylum application processing time reaches 180 days or less.
Additional restrictions and limited exceptions
The proposals include stricter eligibility criteria for asylum-based work permits. They also aim to limit the issuance of work permits to immigrants who entered the United States illegally. Limited exceptions exist for those who notify authorities within 48 hours of entry due to persecution or torture.
Reactions
The announcement drew criticism from immigrant rights advocates and some Democrats, who argued that the move undermines existing U.S. and international laws. The administration maintains that the regulation aims to reduce “spurious or fraudulent” asylum claims.
The next operation
There will be a 60-day public comment period after the regulation is officially published in the Federal Register. The enactment process could take months or years before the regulation becomes effective.
