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Trump Administration Proposes Year-Long Wait for Asylum Work Permits

2/20/2026

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Summary

Story summary

The administration of U.S. President Donald Trump plans to tighten immigration policies and pause issuing work permits to asylum seekers.
The proposed rule would extend the waiting period for work permits from 150 to 365 days.
Advocates warn the change will harm asylum seekers and U.S. communities that rely on these permits.
Public comments on the proposal will be accepted for 90 days, followed by a review period.

History

Historical Context

The Immigration and Nationality Act of 1965, signed by President Lyndon B. Johnson on October 3, abolished national origin quotas that had favored Northern and Western Europeans since the 1920s. This landmark legislation allowed approximately 290,000 immigrants annually from diverse backgrounds, significantly altering U.S. demographics and sparking ongoing debates about immigration policy and economic contributions of asylum seekers.

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Story summary

The administration of U.S. President Donald Trump plans to tighten immigration policies and pause issuing work permits to asylum seekers.
The proposed rule would extend the waiting period for work permits from 150 to 365 days.
Advocates warn the change will harm asylum seekers and U.S. communities that rely on these permits.
Public comments on the proposal will be accepted for 90 days, followed by a review period.

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