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DHS proposes rule to restrict employment authorization for noncitizens with final orders of removal

  1. Original Date Announced

    November 19, 2020

    DHS issued a notice of proposed rulemaking to eliminate employment authorization for noncitizens with final orders of removal released from custody on orders of supervision. The proposed rule includes an exception for noncitizens who cannot be removed due to the affirmative denial of travel documents by a country of removal, provided the noncitizen can demonstrate economic necessity based on Federal Poverty Guidelines and meets other requirements. It also clarifies that noncitizens granted withholding of removal and CAT protection are automatically employment authorized. [ID# 1174]

    Employment Authorization for Certain Classes of Aliens with Final Orders of Removal
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  3. Biden Administration Action: Revoked/Replaced

    May 10, 2021

    2021. 05. 10 DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND SECURITY U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services, Employment Authorization for Certain Classes of Aliens With Final Orders of Removal; Withdrawal

    This Biden administration policy revokes in its entirety the Trump-era policy identified in this entry.

    On May 10, 2021, USCIS withdrew the NPRM of the aforementioned Trump policy.

    View Document

Current Status

Not in effect

Most Recent Action

May 10, 2021 Action: Revoked/Replaced 2021. 05. 10 DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND SECURITY U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services, Employment Authorization for Certain Classes of Aliens With Final Orders of Removal; Withdrawal
May 10, 2021
Acted on by Biden Administration

Original Trump Policy Status

Status: Proposed
Trump Administration Action: Rule
Subject Matter: Humanitarian
Agencies Affected: USCIS ICE

Pre Trump-Era Policies

  • Under 8 C.F.R. § 274a.12(c)(18), a noncitizen with a final order of deportation or removal who is released on an order of supervision may be granted employment authorization only if the noncitizen cannot be removed due to the refusal of countries to accept them or because the removal of the noncitizen is otherwise impracticable or contrary to the public interest.

    § 274a.12

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