On the heels of a July 26, 2024, presidential memo, Secretary of Homeland Security Alejandro Mayorkas has announced the implementation of employment authorization for certain Lebanese nationals covered by Deferred Enforced Departure (DED). This protection will extend through January 25, 2026, allowing eligible individuals to obtain work authorization in the United States during this period.
What Does This Mean for Lebanese Nationals?
Lebanese nationals who qualify for DED will now be eligible to apply for an Employment Authorization Document (EAD). Once granted, these individuals will receive an EAD with a Category Code of A11, which serves as evidence of their right to work in the U.S. This document will allow them to meet the requirements for Form I-9, the Employment Eligibility Verification form required by all U.S. employers.
Understanding DED and its Protections
Deferred Enforced Departure is a discretionary protection offered by the President to certain nationals of countries facing ongoing conflict or extraordinary circumstances. While DED does not confer lawful immigration status, it provides a temporary reprieve from removal and grants employment authorization for those covered under it.
In the case of Lebanese nationals, this protection offers a vital opportunity for individuals impacted by the ongoing instability in Lebanon to maintain their livelihood and contribute to the U.S. workforce without fear of removal, at least until the specified deadline.
What Employers and Employees Need to Know
If you are an employer hiring individuals who present an EAD with Category Code A11, it is important to recognize that these employees are authorized to work under DED for the duration of their protection period. For employees, this is a significant opportunity to obtain or continue employment in the U.S. during this protected period.
It is essential for both employers and employees to keep track of the expiration dates on these documents, as DED protections, while renewable, are time-limited. Employers should ensure that their Form I-9 procedures are up to date to reflect this new category of authorized workers.
For more detailed guidance, you can refer to the Federal Register notice implementing DED for Lebanon or visit the USCIS Deferred Enforced Departure page for additional information.
Conclusion
This latest announcement highlights the U.S. government's ongoing efforts to provide temporary immigration protections for individuals from countries facing dire circumstances. For Lebanese nationals under DED, this policy offers a critical pathway to employment stability while the situation in Lebanon remains uncertain. Saluja Law will continue to monitor developments and provide updates on DED and other immigration-related policies.
If you have questions about your eligibility for DED or need assistance with employment authorization applications, contact us today for a consultation.