Key Takeaways
• TPS for Afghanistan ends July 14, 2025, as announced by Secretary Kristi Noem on May 12, 2025.
• Afghan TPS holders must find other legal status or face deportation after July 14, 2025.
• Pending TPS applications will be processed but only valid until TPS termination date.
The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has announced a major change for Afghan nationals living in the United States 🇺🇸 under Temporary Protected Status (TPS). On May 12, 2025, Secretary of Homeland Security Kristi Noem declared that TPS for Afghanistan will end on July 14, 2025. This update has significant effects for thousands of Afghans and their families who have relied on this protection since 2022. Here’s what you need to know about what changed, who is affected, important dates, required actions, and what this means for pending applications and future options.
Summary of What Changed
Temporary Protected Status is a program that allows people from certain countries to stay and work in the United States 🇺🇸 when it is unsafe for them to return home. Afghanistan was granted TPS in 2022 after the Taliban took control, leading to widespread violence and instability. Now, after a recent review, the U.S. government has decided that conditions in Afghanistan have improved enough to end TPS for its citizens.
Key Points of the Change:
– TPS for Afghanistan ends on July 14, 2025.
– Secretary of Homeland Security Kristi Noem made the announcement after reviewing security, economic, and humanitarian conditions.
– Employment Authorization Documents (EADs) for Afghan TPS holders are automatically valid until July 14, 2025.
– After this date, Afghans with TPS must find another way to stay in the United States 🇺🇸 or face possible deportation.
Who Is Affected by the Change
This decision directly affects Afghan nationals who have been living in the United States 🇺🇸 under TPS since 2022. Many of these individuals fled Afghanistan after the Taliban takeover, fearing for their safety and the safety of their families. The end of TPS means that:
- All Afghan TPS holders will lose their protected status after July 14, 2025.
- Family members who depend on the TPS holder’s status may also be affected.
- Employers who hired Afghan TPS holders will need to plan for the end of their work authorization.
- Pending TPS applications will be processed, but approvals will only last until the termination date.
Effective Dates and Deadlines
- May 12, 2025: Secretary Noem announced the termination of TPS for Afghanistan.
- July 14, 2025: TPS designation officially ends. This is the last day Afghan TPS holders can legally stay and work in the United States 🇺🇸 under this program.
- July 14, 2025: All EADs issued under Afghan TPS expire, regardless of the printed expiration date.
Required Actions for Afghan TPS Holders
If you are an Afghan national with TPS, it is important to act quickly to protect your future in the United States 🇺🇸. Here are the steps you should take:
1. Explore Other Immigration Options
– Consult an immigration attorney as soon as possible. Legal experts can help you understand your options and guide you through the process.
– Consider applying for other forms of protection, such as asylum, refugee status, or a Special Immigrant Visa (SIV). Each option has different requirements and timelines.
– Check if you qualify for family-based immigration. If you have close relatives who are U.S. citizens or permanent residents, you may be able to apply for a green card through them.
2. Gather and Prepare Documents
– Collect all important documents, such as your passport, birth certificate, and any paperwork related to your TPS status.
– Keep copies of your EAD, TPS approval notice, and any correspondence from USCIS.
3. Monitor Official Updates
– Stay informed by checking the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) website regularly for new announcements or changes to immigration policy.
– Follow updates from trusted advocacy groups and legal aid organizations.
4. Seek Legal Assistance
– Many organizations offer free or low-cost legal help to immigrants. Reach out to local nonprofits, community groups, or legal clinics for support.
– If you have a pending TPS application, ask your attorney how the termination affects your case.
Implications for Pending Applications
If you have already applied for TPS but have not yet received a decision, your application will still be processed. However, if approved, your TPS status and work authorization will only last until July 14, 2025. After that date, you will need another legal way to stay in the United States 🇺🇸.
What Happens After TPS Expires?
After July 14, 2025, Afghan nationals who do not have another legal status will lose their right to live and work in the United States 🇺🇸. This means:
- You may be at risk of deportation if you remain in the country without another valid immigration status.
- You will no longer be able to work legally unless you obtain a different type of work permit.
- You may lose access to certain benefits that were available under TPS.
Options for Afghan Nationals After TPS Ends
While the end of TPS is a serious challenge, there are still some possible ways for Afghan nationals to stay in the United States 🇺🇸. Here are the main options:
1. Asylum
– If you fear returning to Afghanistan because of persecution based on your race, religion, nationality, political opinion, or membership in a particular group, you may apply for asylum.
– The asylum process can be complex and time-consuming, so it is important to seek legal help.
– You must apply within one year of arriving in the United States 🇺🇸, but there are exceptions for people with TPS.
2. Special Immigrant Visa (SIV)
– This program is for Afghans who worked with the U.S. government, military, or certain organizations in Afghanistan.
– If you qualify, you can apply for a green card through the SIV program.
– For more information, visit the U.S. Department of State’s SIV page.
3. Refugee Resettlement
– Some Afghans may qualify for refugee status if they are outside the United States 🇺🇸 and meet certain requirements.
– The U.S. government continues to resettle Afghan refugees through programs like Enduring Welcome and Welcome Corps.
4. Family-Based Immigration
– If you have close family members who are U.S. citizens or lawful permanent residents, you may be able to apply for a green card.
– The process can take time, so start as soon as possible.
5. Other Humanitarian Programs
– Some Afghans may be eligible for other forms of relief, such as humanitarian parole or Deferred Action.
– These programs are usually temporary and do not lead to permanent residency, but they can provide short-term protection.
Why Was TPS for Afghanistan Terminated?
According to Secretary of Homeland Security Kristi Noem, the decision to end TPS for Afghanistan was based on a review by U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) and consultations with the Department of State. The government cited:
- Improvements in security and economic stability in Afghanistan since 2022.
- National security concerns and ongoing fraud investigations involving some TPS recipients.
- The temporary nature of TPS, which is not meant to provide permanent status.
Secretary Noem emphasized the need to “restore integrity in the immigration system” and reminded the public that TPS is not a permanent solution.
Expert and Humanitarian Perspectives
Many experts and advocacy groups disagree with the government’s assessment. They argue that Afghanistan remains unsafe for many people, especially those who worked with the U.S. mission or who belong to groups targeted by the Taliban. The United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) reports that nearly half of Afghanistan’s population needs humanitarian assistance, and millions of Afghans have returned from neighboring countries, making the crisis worse.
Advocates warn that ending TPS could put thousands of people at risk of harm if they are forced to return to Afghanistan. They urge the U.S. government to consider the ongoing violence, repression, and humanitarian needs.
International and Legislative Response
There are growing calls for Congress to take action to protect Afghans who may lose TPS. Some lawmakers and advocacy groups are pushing for:
- The Afghan Adjustment Act, which would create a path to permanent residency for certain Afghans.
- More Special Immigrant Visas for those who supported the U.S. mission in Afghanistan.
- Continued resettlement efforts through programs like Enduring Welcome and Welcome Corps.
As reported by VisaVerge.com, these legislative and humanitarian efforts are seen as critical for addressing the needs of Afghans who cannot safely return home.
What Should Employers Do?
Employers who have hired Afghan TPS holders should be aware that their employees’ work authorization will end on July 14, 2025. Employers should:
- Review the expiration dates on EADs and prepare for changes in staffing.
- Inform affected employees about the upcoming changes and encourage them to seek legal advice.
- Avoid discrimination based on national origin or immigration status, as required by law.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What happens if I do nothing after TPS ends?
A: If you do not apply for another form of legal status, you will lose your right to stay and work in the United States 🇺🇸. You may be placed in removal (deportation) proceedings.
Q: Can I apply for asylum after TPS ends?
A: Yes, you can apply for asylum if you meet the requirements. It is important to apply as soon as possible and seek legal help.
Q: Will my pending TPS application be approved?
A: Pending applications will be processed, but any approval will only last until July 14, 2025.
Q: Are there any new programs for Afghans?
A: Congress is considering new laws, such as the Afghan Adjustment Act, but nothing has been passed yet. Stay informed by checking official government websites and trusted news sources.
Q: Where can I find official information and forms?
A: Visit the USCIS website for the latest updates and to access official forms, such as Form I-589 for asylum. Always use the official government site to avoid scams.
Key Takeaways and Next Steps
- TPS for Afghanistan ends on July 14, 2025. All protections and work permits under this program will expire on that date.
- Afghan TPS holders must act now to explore other legal options for staying in the United States 🇺🇸.
- Seek legal advice from qualified immigration attorneys or trusted organizations.
- Monitor official government updates for any changes or new programs.
- Employers and families should prepare for the end of TPS and support affected individuals.
For more details and official guidance, visit the USCIS website. This is the best source for up-to-date information on immigration policies, forms, and deadlines.
The end of Temporary Protected Status for Afghanistan is a major change that affects thousands of people. While the government says conditions have improved, many experts and advocates believe Afghanistan remains dangerous for many. It is important for Afghan nationals, their families, and employers to understand the new rules, take action quickly, and seek help from trusted sources. By staying informed and prepared, you can make the best decisions for your future in the United States 🇺🇸.
Learn Today
Temporary Protected Status (TPS) → A temporary immigration status allowing nationals from unsafe countries to live and work in the U.S.
Employment Authorization Document (EAD) → A card granting TPS recipients legal permission to work in the United States.
Special Immigrant Visa (SIV) → A visa for Afghans who worked with the U.S. government or military in Afghanistan.
Asylum → Protection for individuals fearing persecution in their home country due to race, religion, or political opinion.
USCIS → U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services, the agency that manages immigration and TPS applications.
This Article in a Nutshell
The U.S. ends TPS for Afghanistan on July 14, 2025, affecting thousands. Afghan nationals must seek other immigration options immediately to maintain legal status and work authorization. Legal help and staying updated with USCIS are critical steps. This change reflects the government’s view of improved conditions in Afghanistan.
— By VisaVerge.com
