Key Takeaways
• DHS announced Afghan TPS ends May 20, 2025; deportation protections end July 12, 2025, affecting around 9,000 individuals.
• Secretary Noem cited Afghanistan’s improved security and economy as the primary reasons for TPS termination.
• Critics argue Afghanistan remains dangerous under Taliban rule; legal challenges and Congress could still alter the decision.
Thousands of Afghan nationals living in the United States face an uncertain future after a major policy decision by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) under Secretary Kristi Noem. As reported by VisaVerge.com, DHS has announced the end of Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for Afghan nationals, a move with far-reaching consequences for those who fled Afghanistan following the withdrawal of U.S. forces in 2021.
This article explains the changes, the official reasoning, the criticism, and what might happen next, helping you understand what is at stake for Afghan nationals, U.S. immigration policy, and the broader discussion around humanitarian protections.
What Is Temporary Protected Status (TPS) and Why Does It Matter?
Temporary Protected Status, also known as TPS, is an immigration status the U.S. government can give to people from certain countries where it would not be safe to send them home. This is due to conditions like ongoing armed conflict, natural disasters, or other unsafe factors. Individuals granted TPS are protected from being deported and can apply for work permits while in the United States.
After the U.S. military withdrew from Afghanistan 🇦🇫 in August 2021, the situation in the country became unstable. Many Afghans who supported U.S. forces or worked with international organizations feared reprisals from the Taliban. The Biden administration, recognizing the dangers in Afghanistan, first designated Afghan nationals for TPS on May 20, 2022. This protection allowed thousands who made it to the United States to remain legally and to live without the fear of being forced back to Afghanistan.
Since then, about 9,000 Afghan nationals have been living in the U.S. under this protection. They included people who escaped violence and threats at home, often with only a few belongings, hoping for a new start in the United States.
Noem’s Decision: Ending TPS for Afghan Nationals
Secretary Noem and DHS recently announced that the TPS designation for Afghan nationals will end. Here are the main details you should know:
- TPS now expires: May 20, 2025
- Protection from deportation ends: July 12, 2025
- Number of Afghan nationals affected: About 9,000
- Reason stated by DHS: Improvement in Afghanistan’s security and economy
Noem explained her decision in the official statement, saying, “Afghanistan has had an improved security situation, and its stabilizing economy no longer prevent them from returning to their home country.”
This means that after July 12, 2025, Afghan nationals with TPS will no longer be protected from deportation and could be required to leave the United States unless they find another legal way to stay.
Why Did Noem and DHS Revoke TPS Protection?
According to Secretary Noem, the U.S. government reviews TPS countries regularly, working with agencies involved in foreign policy and security. The main reasons she gave for ending Afghan TPS are:
- Security: The situation in Afghanistan has become more stable, with reported improvements in day-to-day safety.
- Economy: There are claims that Afghanistan’s economy is stabilizing, making it possible for returnees to live there.
- Integrity of Immigration Policy: Noem also said that national interest requires strong immigration controls. She pointed out that “some TPS recipients have been investigated for fraud or threats to public safety.” Noem framed the decision as part of an effort to restore order and trust to immigration law.
These reasons mean that the government officially believes Afghanistan is now safe enough for its citizens to return home. However, this claim is being strongly debated by others.
Strong Criticism from Advocates: Is Afghanistan Really Safe?
Refugee advocates, Afghan community groups, and some U.S. veterans have criticized the decision to revoke TPS for Afghan nationals. They argue that, despite what the DHS says, Afghanistan remains deeply unsafe.
- Ongoing Taliban control: Since the U.S. left Afghanistan in 2021, the Taliban has taken over the country. Many inside and outside Afghanistan report that the group continues to rule harshly, especially against anyone seen as supporting Western governments.
-
Fear for former U.S. allies: U.S. military personnel who worked with Afghan nationals state that those forced to return could face punishment—prison, violence, or worse.
-
Lack of basic rights: Advocacy groups point out that Afghanistan, under Taliban control, has little protection for women, minorities, and anyone who speaks out or opposes their rule.
-
Example from AfghanEvac: The group AfghanEvac summed up this view: “Afghanistan remains under control of the Taliban… There is no functioning asylum system. There are still assassinations, arbitrary arrests, and ongoing human rights abuses…”
In short, critics argue that DHS’s review does not match what is actually happening in Afghanistan. They call ending TPS for Afghan nationals a political move rather than a decision grounded in facts or concern for people’s safety.
Is Afghanistan Stable? A Closer Look
To understand each side of the argument, it is worth looking at what reports say about Afghanistan today:
- Daily violence: News agencies and human rights groups continue to report attacks, disappearances, and punishments in the country.
- Human rights abuses: Many reports describe abuses, especially targeting women, ethnic and religious minorities, and anyone linked to the former government or foreign forces.
- No working asylum or protection systems: Critics say that returning Afghans have nowhere to go safely if they are at risk.
Given these conditions, critics say ending Temporary Protected Status for Afghan nationals ignores real-life threats. Supporters of the change, however, claim that it is important for the U.S. government to regularly update who receives protection and not extend it when countries become more stable.
What Alternatives Do Afghan Nationals Have Now?
With TPS set to end for Afghan nationals, those affected must consider other options to remain in the United States. However, as of now, all choices come with challenges:
1. Asylum:
Afghans who fear returning due to threats or persecution can apply for asylum. To qualify, one must prove a credible fear of harm based on race, religion, nationality, political opinion, or membership in a particular social group. The U.S. asylum system, however, is backlogged and has strict requirements.
2. Special Immigrant Visas (SIVs):
Some Afghans who worked for the U.S. government or military in Afghanistan can apply for a Special Immigrant Visa. This program was designed to help local employees who face threats because of their support for U.S. operations. Like the asylum system, the SIV process faces long delays and strict evidence requirements.
3. Other Humanitarian Programs:
There are programs like humanitarian parole, which is temporary and does not lead to permanent residency or citizenship. Some may also seek family-based green cards, but this usually requires a close relative who is a U.S. citizen or permanent resident.
4. Legal Challenges:
It is likely that lawsuits will be filed to block or slow down this policy change. In the past, courts have sometimes delayed or even reversed similar TPS terminations.
For official information on TPS and other protection programs, you can visit the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services TPS page.
Timeline and Key Facts
Here is a summary of the main details affecting Afghan nationals with TPS:
- Initial TPS designation by the Biden administration: May 20, 2022
- Most recent extension: November 21, 2023
- Current expiration date for TPS: May 20, 2025
- Protections officially end: July 12, 2025
By July 13, 2025, TPS will no longer block deportation for nearly 9,000 Afghan nationals, unless they qualify for another status or U.S. courts step in.
Impact on Individuals, Families, and U.S. Policy
On Afghan nationals:
– The end of TPS brings fear and anxiety. Many who escaped Afghanistan after 2021 built new lives here, sending children to school, finding work, and creating communities.
– Being forced to return could put them in danger, particularly those linked to Western organizations, women, or minorities who often face threats under the Taliban.
On families:
– Children born in the United States may face separation from their parents. U.S.-born children are citizens, but their parents could be deported.
– Families could be split across continents, with no easy way to stay together.
On schools and workplaces:
– Afghan nationals often work in essential roles. Removing thousands of workers could disrupt local economies.
– Schools may lose students who contribute to diverse classrooms.
On U.S. immigration policy:
– This move shows a stricter approach to protections like TPS.
– Legal battles could decide whether the policy stands or is blocked, as seen with other countries in the past.
Supporters and Critics: A Deep Divide
The debate around this decision shows a deep split in American immigration discussions:
- Supporters (including Noem):
Argue that TPS should be temporary, not permanent. They believe continuously extending it undermines border security and the rules Congress set for the program. They also highlight the importance of making “tough decisions” to enforce U.S. law. -
Critics:
Believe the U.S. must consider real risks for each group, especially those who helped U.S. missions abroad or have no safe place to go home. They see this as turning away from responsibility and putting lives at risk.
This sharp divide will likely remain as legal challenges move forward and as Congress and the courts decide on the future of TPS for Afghan nationals.
Looking Ahead: What to Watch For
The story of TPS for Afghan nationals may not be over. Two important questions remain:
1. Will federal courts block or delay the policy?
– Lawsuits delayed or reversed similar policy changes for other countries.
– Courts could order DHS to reinstate TPS for Afghan nationals, at least temporarily.
2. Will Congress change the law?
– Some members might introduce bills to grant longer-term protection or even pathways to permanent residency for Afghans who fled after the 2021 withdrawal.
– Congressional action could provide a solution if courts do not.
In the meantime, Afghan nationals in the United States are urged to seek legal advice, gather documents that prove their risk if returned, and prepare for possible changes. Community organizations and lawyers will play a key role in helping affected families understand their choices and rights.
Summary: Immediate Action and Long-Term Uncertainty
With the termination of TPS by Governor Noem’s DHS, nearly 9,000 Afghan nationals must quickly consider other options to stay in the United States or risk deportation to a country many believe is still unsafe. The end of Temporary Protected Status means families face anxiety, and critics argue that returning people to Afghanistan could put them in real danger due to ongoing violence and lack of human rights protections.
Meanwhile, this move has restarted the national debate on what responsibilities the United States has to people who supported its missions abroad and came seeking safety. The final outcome will depend on lawsuits, court rulings, and whether Congress steps in to provide more permanent solutions.
For detailed, up-to-date information on protected status and available immigration options, always refer to official resources such as the USCIS Temporary Protected Status page.
No matter the outcome, the decision by Noem and the Department of Homeland Security marks a major turning point for Afghan nationals, advocates, and U.S. immigration policy as a whole.
Learn Today
Temporary Protected Status (TPS) → A U.S. immigration status given to people from countries experiencing dangerous conditions, offering deportation protection and work eligibility.
Department of Homeland Security (DHS) → A U.S. government agency managing national security, immigration, and public safety, responsible for TPS decisions and enforcement.
Special Immigrant Visas (SIVs) → Visas for foreign nationals, such as Afghans who worked with the U.S. government, granting them legal permanent residency.
Asylum → Legal protection for people fearing persecution in their home country due to race, religion, or political beliefs.
Humanitarian Parole → Temporary U.S. entry for individuals with urgent humanitarian reasons, without a direct path to permanent residency.
This Article in a Nutshell
Afghan nationals in the U.S. now face uncertainty after DHS, under Secretary Noem, announced the end of TPS. With protections set to expire in July 2025, approximately 9,000 Afghans must consider complicated alternatives. Critics cite ongoing dangers in Afghanistan, while legal and congressional challenges may still impact the policy’s future.
— By VisaVerge.com
Read more:
• Canadians Born in Iran, Afghanistan Denied U.S. Entry Under Trump Policy
• Taliban Allows Foreigners with Previous Government’s Visas to Stay in Afghanistan
• India Grants Citizenship to Immigrants from Pakistan, Afghanistan, Bangladesh
• Visa Rules and Required Documents for Traveling to Afghanistan
• Essential Documents for Traveling to Afghanistan
