USCIS Announces Employment Authorization for Hong Kong Residents Under DED

U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has published a new regulation allowing certain Hong Kong residents covered by Deferred Enforced Departure (DED) to apply for Employment Authorization Documents (EADs). These EADs will be valid through February 5, 2027, providing a legal pathway for employment in the United States.

Key Points

• Hong Kong residents with DED status can now apply for work permits (EADs) valid until early 2027.

• This move by USCIS opens up employment opportunities for eligible Hong Kong nationals in the U.S.

• The new regulation outlines procedures for applying for the DED-related EADs.

Background on Deferred Enforced Departure

Deferred Enforced Departure is a temporary immigration designation used by U.S. presidents to defer the removal of certain foreign nationals from the United States. In August 2020, President Trump issued an executive order allowing Hong Kong residents to remain and work in the U.S. due to increasing political tensions and diminishing freedoms in Hong Kong.

Applying for the DED Employment Authorization

Eligible Hong Kong residents with DED status can now file Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization, with supporting documents and fees to request an EAD. USCIS has provided detailed filing instructions on their website.

This new regulation represents an important development in U.S. immigration policy towards Hong Kong, granting qualifying Hong Kong nationals a legal means to work in the United States through early 2027 while DED remains in effect.