Trump officials consider creating regulation to block work permits for asylum-seekers

The Trump administration may implement a regulation that would stop most asylum-seekers from obtaining work permits. Currently, U.S. law allows asylum applicants to request work permits if their cases have been pending for more than 180 days. The proposed changes would create significant delays, requiring a year for permit eligibility instead of six months.

Advocates worry these changes would impoverish asylum-seekers and drive them into illegal work. The backlog in asylum claims is also a concern, with many cases unresolved for over two years. The proposed rule aims to deter migrants who might exploit the asylum system to work in the U.S.