The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) announced that Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for Ethiopian nationals in the United States will be terminated, following a formal review of country conditions and consultations across the U.S. government. The decision was confirmed by DHS Secretary Kristi Noem and reflects the administration’s conclusion that Ethiopia no longer meets the statutory criteria required to maintain TPS designation.
TPS is a humanitarian program created by Congress that allows nationals of designated countries to live and work in the United States temporarily when extraordinary conditions—such as armed conflict or natural disaster—make return unsafe. The designation is reviewed periodically and can be extended, redesigned, or terminated based on updated assessments.
What DHS said and why TPS is ending
In a statement outlining the decision, DHS said the Secretary determined—after reviewing country conditions and consulting with appropriate agencies—that Ethiopia no longer satisfies the conditions necessary for TPS. Under the law, such determinations are made using inputs that can include security assessments, humanitarian indicators, and diplomatic reporting.
Termination of TPS does not equal immediate removal. Instead, DHS typically establishes a wind-down period during which affected individuals can seek other lawful immigration options or prepare for departure.
What TPS termination means in practice
For Ethiopians currently holding TPS:
– TPS protections and work authorization will end on a specified future date
– Individuals may become removable if they lack another lawful status
– Many may be eligible to pursue other relief (asylum, adjustment of status, family-based petitions, or employment visas)
– DHS commonly provides notice periods to allow orderly transitions
Advocacy groups urge TPS holders to consult qualified immigration counsel to assess individualized options.
The legal framework behind TPS decisions
TPS is governed by statute and requires the Secretary of Homeland Security to periodically reassess whether conditions in a designated country continue to warrant protection. Factors can include:
– Cessation or reduction of armed conflict
– Improvements in humanitarian access
– Stabilization of governance or security conditions
– Capacity of the country to receive returning nationals
Courts generally defer to DHS’s country-conditions determinations so long as the agency follows statutory procedures and provides a rational explanation.
Policy context and political reaction
Supporters of the decision argue that TPS must remain temporary by design and that periodic termination preserves the program’s integrity. They emphasize the importance of consistent enforcement and regular reassessment.
Critics contend that conditions in Ethiopia remain complex and warn that ending TPS could expose individuals to hardship if returns occur before durable stability is achieved. They also point to the economic contributions of TPS holders and the disruptions caused by status changes.
What happens next
Key next steps typically include:
– Publication of the official termination date and wind-down period
– Guidance on re-registration, employment authorization end dates, and compliance
– Outreach by DHS and community organizations to inform affected individuals
– Potential legal challenges seeking judicial review of the determination
Conclusion
The termination of TPS for Ethiopia marks a significant immigration policy decision grounded in DHS’s assessment of country conditions. While the move sets a timeline for the end of temporary protections, it also initiates a transition period during which affected individuals may pursue alternative legal pathways. As with prior TPS terminations, the outcome will depend on implementation details, access to legal counsel, and any ensuing court actions.