F-1 visa and EAD renewal: What Indian students need to know about the new US work permit rule

The United States has ended the automatic work permit extensions for some immigrants. This new rule, effective October 30, 2025, requires stricter checks before employment authorisations are renewed. International students on OPT, including STEM extensions, will be significantly impacted. They must stop working if their permit expires before renewal approval, creating potential job gaps and income loss.