Trump Administration Ends Deportation Protections for Afghans in Kentucky

Key Takeaways

• DHS ends TPS for Afghanistan on July 12, 2025, affecting up to 14,000 Afghans in the U.S.
• Afghans lose work permits and face deportation risk without other legal status after TPS ends.
• Kentucky’s large Afghan community fears separation and risk due to Taliban dangers and policy changes.

On May 12, 2025, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) announced it would end Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for Afghanistan, with the protections officially ending on July 12, 2025. This decision will affect up to 14,000 Afghans living in the United States 🇺🇸, including many in Kentucky, who fled the Taliban after the U.S. withdrawal in 2021. The move has caused deep fear and uncertainty among Afghan families, especially in Kentucky, which is home to a large Afghan community.

What Is Temporary Protected Status and Why Was It Ended?

Temporary Protected Status, or TPS, is a special immigration program that lets people from certain countries stay and work in the United States 🇺🇸 when it is unsafe for them to return home. The U.S. government gives TPS to people from countries facing war, natural disasters, or other dangerous situations. For Afghans, TPS was first granted after the Taliban took over Afghanistan in 2021, and it was extended in 2023 by the Biden administration because of ongoing violence and humanitarian problems.

On May 12, 2025, DHS Secretary Kristi Noem said the Trump administration was ending TPS for Afghanistan because, in their view, the country’s security and economy had improved enough for people to return. She stated, “This administration is returning TPS to its original temporary intent. Afghanistan has had an improved security situation, and its stabilizing economy no longer prevent[s] them from returning to their home country.” However, many experts and Afghan community leaders strongly disagree, saying Afghanistan is still very dangerous, especially for those who worked with the U.S. or belong to minority groups.

Who Is Affected by the TPS Termination?

The end of TPS for Afghanistan will impact between 8,000 and 14,000 Afghans in the United States 🇺🇸. Many of these people came to the U.S. after the fall of Kabul in 2021, often through Operation Allies Welcome, which helped evacuate Afghans who worked with the U.S. military or government. Kentucky is one of the states with a large Afghan resettlement community, though exact numbers for the state are not available.

Affected individuals include:

• Afghans with TPS: People who received TPS after 2021 will lose their legal right to stay and work in the U.S. on July 12, 2025.
• Humanitarian Parolees: Many Afghans were allowed into the U.S. under a program called humanitarian parole. This status is also ending for thousands, with some receiving notices that they must leave within 7 days, even if they have applied for asylum or other legal status.
• Families and Children: Many Afghans have built new lives in the U.S., with children in school, jobs, and strong community ties, especially in places like Kentucky.

What Happens Next for Afghans in Kentucky and Across the U.S.?

When TPS ends on July 12, 2025, Afghans who do not have another legal status will lose their work permits and become undocumented. This means:

• Loss of Work Authorization: Work permits tied to TPS will expire. Employers must check if their Afghan employees are still allowed to work after this date.
• Deportation Risk: People without legal status may be placed in removal (deportation) proceedings by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). This can happen even if they have applied for asylum, a Special Immigrant Visa (SIV), or another form of protection.
• Family and Community Disruption: Many Afghans have families, jobs, and deep roots in the U.S. Losing TPS could mean being separated from loved ones or sent back to a country where they fear violence or persecution.

Step-by-Step: What Should Affected Afghans Do?

1. Watch for Official Notices: People with TPS or parole status will receive formal letters about the end of their status.
2. Check Work Permits: Work authorization ends on July 12, 2025. Employers must verify if workers are still eligible to work.
3. Prepare for Possible Removal: Those without another legal status may be placed in removal proceedings. It is important to know your rights and options.
4. Explore Legal Options: Some may qualify for asylum, SIV, or other relief. These applications must be filed quickly, and the process can be complex.
5. Seek Legal Help: Organizations like #AfghanEvac and local legal aid groups in Kentucky are offering support and advice for those facing deportation or needing to adjust their status.

For more information on TPS and other immigration options, visit the USCIS Temporary Protected Status page.

Why Is This Decision So Controversial?

The Trump administration says ending TPS for Afghanistan is about returning to the original purpose of the program, which is meant to be temporary. They argue that Afghanistan is now safe enough for people to return. However, many experts, advocacy groups, and Afghan community leaders say this is not true. They point out that Afghanistan is still controlled by the Taliban, and many people face serious risks if they go back, especially women, journalists, and those who worked with the U.S. government.

Voices from the Community

• Afghan Community Leaders in Kentucky: Many have spoken out about their fear and anxiety. They worry about being sent back to a country where they could be targeted by the Taliban. Some have described feeling betrayed by the U.S. government after risking their lives to help American forces.
• Advocacy Groups like #AfghanEvac: These groups have called the decision “unconscionable” and warn of “long-lasting ripple effects” on Afghan families. They are urging Congress and the administration to take action to protect Afghans who supported the U.S. mission.
• Immigration Experts: Many warn that ending TPS and parole will leave thousands in legal limbo, increase the risk of family separation, and put extra pressure on local communities and support organizations.

As reported by VisaVerge.com, the end of TPS for Afghanistan is expected to have a major impact on Afghan families, employers, and local communities, especially in states like Kentucky where many Afghans have resettled.

What Are the Practical Effects for Afghans in Kentucky?

Kentucky has become a new home for many Afghans since 2021. Local organizations, such as Kentucky Refugee Ministries and the International Rescue Committee, have helped families find housing, jobs, and schools. The end of TPS means:

• Job Loss: Many Afghans will lose their jobs when their work permits expire.
• School Disruption: Children may be forced to leave school if their families are deported.
• Community Strain: Local support groups will face more requests for help, including legal aid and mental health services.
• Fear and Uncertainty: Families are worried about being separated or sent back to Afghanistan, where they may face danger.

Legal and Humanitarian Challenges

Ending TPS for Afghanistan creates several legal and humanitarian problems:

• No U.S. Embassy in Afghanistan: The United States 🇺🇸 does not have a full embassy or consulate in Afghanistan, making it hard to arrange deportation flights or provide help to returnees.
• No Formal Deportation Agreements: There are no official agreements with the Taliban for deporting people back to Afghanistan, which adds to the uncertainty.
• Ongoing Violence: Reports from humanitarian groups and U.S. intelligence say Afghanistan is still very dangerous, especially for those who worked with the U.S. or are part of minority groups.

What Legal Options Remain?

Afghans losing TPS or parole status may still have some legal options, but these are limited and often complicated:

• Asylum: People who fear persecution in Afghanistan can apply for asylum. This process can take a long time and is not guaranteed.
• Special Immigrant Visa (SIV): Some Afghans who worked with the U.S. military or government may qualify for an SIV. Learn more about the SIV program and application process on the U.S. Department of State website.
• Adjustment of Status: Some may be able to apply for a green card if they have family in the U.S. or meet other requirements.
• Legal Aid: Local organizations and advocacy groups are offering free or low-cost legal help to those who need it.

How Are Advocacy Groups and Lawmakers Responding?

Advocacy groups and some lawmakers are pushing back against the decision to end TPS for Afghanistan. They argue that the move is both unsafe and unfair, given the ongoing dangers in Afghanistan and the promises made to Afghan allies. Many are calling for:

• Lawsuits: Legal challenges are expected, similar to those filed when TPS was ended for other countries.
• Congressional Action: Some members of Congress are urging new laws to give permanent status or protection to Afghans who helped the U.S.
• Executive Action: There are calls for the administration to delay or reverse the decision, but so far, there are no signs this will happen.

What Should Affected Afghans Do Now?

If you or someone you know is affected by the end of TPS for Afghanistan, here are some steps to take:

• Stay Informed: Watch for official notices from USCIS or DHS about your status.
• Check Your Work Permit: Make sure you know when your work authorization ends.
• Seek Legal Help: Contact local legal aid organizations, such as Kentucky Refugee Ministries, the International Rescue Committee, or #AfghanEvac.
• Explore All Options: If you may qualify for asylum, SIV, or another status, start the application process as soon as possible.
• Connect with Community Support: Many local groups offer help with legal advice, mental health support, and other needs.

Official Resources and Where to Get Help

• USCIS TPS Information: For the latest updates and official guidance, visit the USCIS Temporary Protected Status page.
• #AfghanEvac: Visit afghanevac.org for legal and community support.
• Local Legal Aid in Kentucky: Contact Kentucky Refugee Ministries or the International Rescue Committee for help with immigration questions and legal support.

Looking Ahead: What Could Happen Next?

The situation for Afghans with TPS in the United States 🇺🇸, especially in Kentucky, remains uncertain. Possible future developments include:

• Court Challenges: Lawsuits may delay or block the end of TPS, as has happened with other countries.
• New Laws: Congress could pass new laws to protect Afghan allies, but it is unclear if this will happen soon.
• Community Mobilization: Local and national groups are working hard to support affected families, provide legal help, and push for policy changes.

Summary Table: Key Facts

Final Thoughts and Immediate Steps

The end of Temporary Protected Status for Afghanistan is a life-changing event for thousands of Afghans in the United States 🇺🇸, especially in Kentucky. Many now face the risk of losing their jobs, being separated from their families, and being sent back to a country where they may not be safe. It is important for affected individuals to act quickly, seek legal help, and stay connected with community organizations.

For the most up-to-date information and official guidance, visit the USCIS Temporary Protected Status page. If you need help, reach out to local legal aid groups or advocacy organizations like #AfghanEvac. The coming weeks and months will be critical for Afghan families, their supporters, and the communities that have welcomed them.

Learn Today

Temporary Protected Status (TPS) → A U.S. program protecting people from dangerous countries from deportation and allowing work temporarily.
Humanitarian Parole → A U.S. program allowing temporary entry for urgent humanitarian reasons or significant public benefit.
Special Immigrant Visa (SIV) → A visa for Afghans who worked with the U.S. government or military to immigrate safely.
Work Authorization → Legal permission for immigrants to work in the United States, often linked to immigration status.
Removal Proceedings → Legal process where immigration authorities seek to deport a person without lawful status.

This Article in a Nutshell

The U.S. will end TPS for Afghanistan on July 12, 2025. Thousands face job loss, deportation risk, and family separation, sparking fear, especially in Kentucky, where many Afghans reside. Legal options exist but are limited. Community groups urge affected families to seek legal help immediately and stay informed.
— By VisaVerge.com