WASHINGTON – A proposed rule from the Trump administration could significantly delay, potentially for “many years,” the issuance of work permits for asylum seekers in the United States, according to a report published on Thursday.

The rule, detailed in a notice published by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, aims to restrict asylum applicants’ access to employment authorization while their cases are pending. Currently, asylum seekers can apply for work permits after waiting 150 days. The new rule would eliminate this option, requiring applicants to first receive a grant of asylum before being eligible for employment.

The administration argues that the current system incentivizes fraudulent asylum claims and allows individuals to work in the U.S. illegally while their cases are being reviewed. They contend that restricting work permits will deter individuals from falsely claiming asylum to obtain employment.

The proposed change has drawn sharp criticism from immigrant rights advocates and legal experts, who say it would severely harm asylum seekers who often rely on work authorization to support themselves and their families while navigating a lengthy and complex legal process. Many asylum seekers arrive in the U.S. with limited financial resources and face significant barriers to finding legal employment without a work permit.

The rule's impact could be far-reaching, affecting tens of thousands of asylum applicants currently awaiting decisions on their cases. It is unclear when the rule will take effect, and it is likely to face legal challenges.

The Department of Homeland Security published the proposed rule for public comment, allowing individuals and organizations to submit feedback before it is finalized. The public comment period is a standard procedure for federal regulations, and the administration will consider the submitted comments before moving forward.