What’s Happening with Temporary Protected Status (TPS)?
If you have Temporary Protected Status (TPS) or are hoping to apply, you’ve probably heard a lot of conflicting news lately. With TPS under review, it’s understandable to feel like the ground beneath you is shifting. Will I be able to stay in the U.S.? Can I still work? What happens next? These are real, pressing questions that deserve clear answers.
We know this situation can feel frustrating, even unfair. For so many TPS holders, the U.S. isn’t just where they live—it’s home. You’ve built a life here, contributed to your community, and worked hard to create stability for yourself and your loved ones. And now, policies beyond your control are throwing all of that into question. Let’s break down what’s happening, what it means for you, and what steps you can take to protect your future.
Why is TPS Under Review?
TPS exists to protect individuals from certain countries facing extraordinary and temporary conditions—wars, natural disasters, humanitarian crises, and political instability. But here’s the catch: TPS isn’t permanent. That means the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) regularly reviews each country designated for TPS to decide whether it should continue, be modified, or be terminated.
The TPS designation process involves assessing whether a country still meets the conditions required to grant TPS to its nationals. The review considers temporary conditions in the country, such as ongoing conflict or disaster recovery efforts. If a country no longer qualifies, TPS could be terminated, leaving thousands of people uncertain about their future.
If you’re from El Salvador, Haiti, Honduras, Nepal, or any other designated country, you’ve probably felt like your life is in limbo for years. The uncertainty can be exhausting. After all, you’ve likely built a home, a career, and relationships in the U.S.—only to be left wondering if everything could be taken away with the stroke of a pen.
What Does This Mean for You?
If your TPS status is under review, here’s what you need to keep in mind:
- USCIS may grant TPS extensions for another 18 months, but it’s up to you to stay ahead of deadlines.
- You may need to re-register for TPS. If an extension is granted, missing the re-registration period could jeopardize your ability to maintain TPS and stay in the U.S.
- Traveling outside the U.S. could put your status at risk. If you need to travel abroad, be sure to obtain TPS travel authorization first. Otherwise, you could find yourself locked out of the country you’ve called home for years.
- You may be eligible for other immigration options. Some TPS beneficiaries qualify for permanent resident status through family sponsorship, employment, or humanitarian relief.
- A TPS application for waiver may help if you face obstacles. If you’ve had issues that could affect your application, consult an immigration attorney to see if a waiver applies to your situation.
- Review the TPS fact sheet published by DHS to understand all current requirements and changes affecting your case.
If you’ve been relying on TPS, it’s time to start planning ahead—before policies change again.
The Latest Updates for TPS Holders
TPS for El Salvador, Haiti, Venezuela, and Other Countries
Recent changes at the Department of Homeland Security have resulted in significant updates to TPS designations that TPS holders need to be aware of.
For El Salvador, Secretary Alejandro N. Mayorkas announced an 18-month extension of TPS, valid from March 10, 2025, through September 9, 2026. Employment Authorization Documents for El Salvador TPS beneficiaries have been automatically extended through March 9, 2026.
For Haiti, Secretary Kristi Noem has shortened the previously announced 18-month extension to 12 months, now set to expire on August 3, 2025.
Most critically, the TPS designation for Venezuela has been terminated effective April 7, 2025, reversing the previous extension. Only Venezuelans covered under the 2021 designation maintain protection through September 10, 2025.
These rapid changes highlight an important reality—TPS is not a permanent solution. The shifting political landscape means that TPS recipients need to stay vigilant about their status.
If you’re currently under TPS protection, don’t wait for the next announcement. Check the USCIS website regularly, stay informed about your specific country designation, and consult with an immigration lawyer about potential pathways to more permanent status.
What Can You Do to Protect Your Status?
The best way to secure your future is to be proactive. Here’s what you should be doing right now:
1. Stay Updated on Your Country’s TPS Status
Policies can change overnight. Bookmark the TPS country page on the USCIS website and check regularly for updates. Better yet, sign up for alerts from reliable immigration organizations so you don’t miss any critical deadlines.
2. File Your TPS Application or Re-Register on Time
If your country is still designated for TPS, don’t delay—apply for TPS or re-register for TPS as soon as possible. Missing the window could mean losing your immigration status, work permit, and protection from deportation.
3. Look Into Getting a Green Card
Let’s be honest—TPS is temporary. That’s why now is the time to explore other immigration options. If you have a U.S. citizen spouse, parent, or child, you might qualify for adjustment of status. Employment-based sponsorship and other humanitarian pathways could also be an option. But these processes take time, so don’t wait until TPS is revoked to start.
4. Get Travel Authorization Before Leaving the U.S.
Thinking about visiting family abroad? Don’t leave without getting TPS travel authorization (advance parole). If you leave the U.S. without it, you might not be allowed to return. It’s heartbreaking to see families separated because of an avoidable mistake—don’t let that happen to you.
5. Talk to an Immigration Lawyer Before It’s Too Late
Immigration law is complicated and always changing. A lawyer can help you understand your options, keep your paperwork in order, and fight for your right to stay in the U.S. If you wait until the last minute, you could be putting yourself and your family in a difficult position. Don’t gamble with your future—get the right help now.
What Happens If TPS Ends?
Losing TPS isn’t just about paperwork—it can upend your entire life. Without another legal status, TPS holders may face:
- Deportation – If TPS ends and you have no other status, you could be placed in removal proceedings.
- Loss of Work Authorization – If your work permit expires, you might lose your job, making it difficult to support yourself and your family.
- Family Separation – Many TPS holders have U.S.-born children, spouses, and deep community ties. Losing TPS could mean being forced back to a country where you no longer have a support system or safety.
This is why it’s so important to act now—while you still have options.
Don’t Wait—Protect Your Future Today
TPS is never guaranteed, and policies can shift in an instant. If you or a loved one holds TPS, now is the time to take action. Waiting could mean losing everything you’ve worked for.
Reach out to the Law Office of Lina Baroudi today for a consultation. Let’s take control of your future—together.
