The Department of Homeland Security posted a Federal Register notice establishing procedures for Palestinians covered by Deferred Enforced Departure (DED) to apply for DED-based Employment Authorization Documents (EADs) valid through Aug. 13, 2025.
On Feb. 14, 2024, President Biden issued a memorandum on DED for Palestinians deferring for 18 months the removal of certain Palestinians present in the United States at the time of the announcement and allowing for employment authorization. Palestinians who entered or enter the United States after February 14, 2024, are not eligible for DED.
Accompanying this announcement is a Special Student Relief notice for F-1 nonimmigrant Palestinian students so that eligible students may request employment authorization, work an increased number of hours while school is in session, and reduce their course load while continuing to maintain F-1 status through the DED period.
There is no application for DED. Palestinians are covered under DED based on the terms described in the president’s directive. Eligible Palestinians can apply for an EAD by filing Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization. Individuals who wish to travel outside of the United States based on DED must file Form I-131, Application for Travel Document.
The Federal Register notice describes eligible Palestinians and required documentation. It also has more information about DED for Palestinians and how eligible individuals may apply for DED-related EADs.
Erickson Insights and Analysis
Erickson Immigration Group will continue to monitor developments and share updates as more news is available. Please contact your employer or EIG attorney if you have questions about anything we’re reporting above or case-specific questions.