Liberian immigrants under the Deferred Enforced Departure (DED) program are now qualified for work authorization till June 30, 2026.
The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) announced the extension of work authorization for Liberians this September following a memorandum from President Joe Biden issued on June 28, 2024.
The extension applies mainly to certain Liberians who have lived constantly in the United States since May 20, 2017. USCIS will automatically extend the validity of Employment Authorization Documents (EADs) for those under DED with specific category codes and expiration dates.
Eligible individuals do not need to submit a separate application for DED. However, they can apply for an EAD by submitting Form I-765. The DED program covers both nationals of Liberia and individuals without nationality who last resided in Liberia. Additionally, DED beneficiaries can apply for travel outsude the US using Form I-131.
The Department of Homeland Security may grant travel authorization at its discretion to those covered under DED for Liberians. USCIS assures that each EAD application will be evaluated fairly and efficiently on a case-by-case basis to determine eligibility.
USCIS has also made efforts to reduce EAD processing times and simplify adjudication procedures with more information about fees for DED-based EADs on the USCIS website.
This extension offers relief to thousands of Liberians in the U.S., allowing them to work legally and contribute to their communities. It also highlights the Biden administration’s approach to immigration, particularly regarding individuals from countries facing ongoing difficulties.
For more details, eligible individuals are encouraged to check the Federal Register notice and visit the USCIS website for guidelines on the application process.
