Trump Proposes Indefinite Freeze on Work Permits for Asylum Seekers

Donald Trump has put forward a proposal that could halt work permits for asylum seekers for years, marking what could become one of the most significant changes to asylum-related employment policy in decades.

The draft regulation, released Friday by the US Department of Homeland Security (DHS), would suspend the issuance of work permits for new asylum applicants until average processing times for certain asylum cases fall to 180 days or less.

According to DHS estimates based on the current backlog, reaching that benchmark could take anywhere from 14 to 173 years. However, the department noted that administrative reforms and efficiency improvements could accelerate the process.

In a statement, DHS said the proposed rule, if finalised, would help curb “frivolous, fraudulent, or otherwise meritless asylum claims.” The agency emphasised that employment authorisation is discretionary and “not an entitlement,” resting with the DHS secretary.

Under the proposal, migrants who entered the United States illegally would generally be ineligible for new work permits and would also be barred from renewing existing authorisations.

The measure is expected to draw significant debate as it moves through the regulatory process.