As of February 2025, significant changes have occurred regarding Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for Venezuelan nationals residing in the United States. TPS is a humanitarian program that allows individuals from designated countries experiencing severe conditions to remain and work legally in the U.S.
On January 17, 2025, the former Secretary of Homeland Security, Alejandro Mayorkas issued a notice in the Federal Register announcing that the two Venezuelan TPS designations were to be consolidated and extended until October 02, 2026.
On January 28, 2025, Kristi Noem, the new Secretary of Homeland Security, vacated the 2025 notice. As a result, the Venezuela 2023 TPS designation and the Venezuela 2021 designation still would remain in effect until their previously granted expiration dates.
Termination of 2023 TPS Designation
However, on February 1, 2025, Secretary of Homeland Security Kristi Noem announced the termination of the 2023 TPS designation for Venezuela. Consequently, TPS and related benefits for Venezuelans under the 2023 TPS designation will end on April 7, 2025.
Status of 2021 TPS Designation
For those Venezuelans who were granted TPS under the 2021 designation, their TPS remains valid until September 10, 2025.
An announcement regarding whether the 2021 designation will be extended or terminated is expected by July 12, 2025.
Impact on Venezuelan Nationals
Approximately 350,000 Venezuelans currently benefiting from the 2023 TPS designation will be affected by this change. Without TPS, these individuals may face challenges in maintaining legal status and employment authorization in the U.S.
The termination of TPS for Venezuelans marks a significant shift in U.S. immigration policy. Affected individuals should promptly seek legal counsel to explore available options and ensure they remain informed about any further policy changes.
For more information on TPS, or other immigration matters, please contact Kolko & Casey, P.C.
About the Author
Andrea Sweeney is a Senior Associate Attorney at Kolko & Casey, P.C. Andrea specializes in family based immigration matters as well as humanitarian and removal defense.
