In a significant policy move, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has extended Employment Authorization for individuals covered under Deferred Enforced Departure (DED) for Liberia. This extension, based on a June 28, 2024, presidential memo, brings much-needed clarity and stability for Liberians already covered under DED and those without nationality who last habitually resided in Liberia.

What the Announcement Means:

• Employment Authorization Extended Through June 2026: Secretary of Homeland Security Alejandro Mayorkas has implemented employment authorization for Liberians under DED through June 30, 2026.

• Automatic Extension of EADs: For those who hold DED-related Employment Authorization Documents (EADs), their current EADs are automatically extended until June 30, 2026. Individuals can also apply for a new EAD valid through the same date.

• Presenting EADs for Employment Verification: Employees with unexpired EADs showing a Category Code of A11—including those automatically extended—are authorized to work and can present these documents to their employers. The extension of EADs simplifies the employment verification process for both employees and employers.

Key Steps for Employers: Completing Form I-9

For employers, this announcement means adjustments in handling Form I-9, Employment Eligibility Verification. When reviewing an employee's EAD, if the expiration date reads March 30, 2020, January 10, 2021, June 30, 2022, June 30, 2024, or June 30, 2026, and includes Category Code A11, that document remains valid through June 30, 2026. Employers do not need to reverify work authorization until after that date.

It's important for employers to stay vigilant in ensuring compliance with Form I-9 requirements. After June 30, 2026, the employee's work authorization must be reverified. At that point, the employee will need to present a new EAD or other proof of their ongoing employment eligibility.

What This Means for Liberian Workers

This announcement is a welcome relief for Liberian nationals and individuals who habitually resided in Liberia before becoming stateless. It provides employment stability and allows individuals covered under DED to continue supporting themselves and their families in the U.S. without the immediate threat of losing work authorization. The extension also gives individuals more time to assess their long-term options for staying in the U.S., including potential paths to permanent residency or citizenship.

Legal Guidance

At Saluja Law, we recognize how impactful these policy changes can be for employers and employees alike. If you are affected by this announcement or need assistance with employment verification processes, immigration filings, or navigating the complexities of DED, our experienced team is here to provide personalized legal advice and representation.

Contact us today to learn more about how this DED extension impacts you or your business and to ensure you remain compliant with all legal and regulatory requirements.