Key Points
- Ukraine: TPS extended for 18 months from April 20, 2025, to October 19, 2026.
- Sudan: TPS extended 18 months from April 20, 2025, to October 19, 2026.
- Venezuela: TPS extended for 18 months from April 3, 2025, to October 2, 2026.
- El Salvador: TPS extended for 18 months from March 10, 2025, to September 9, 2026.
- Eligible beneficiaries must re-register during designated re-registration periods to maintain status and work authorization.
- Automatic extensions of Employment Authorization Documents (EADs) are provided to prevent employment gaps.
Overview
The US Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has announced 18-month extensions of Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for Ukraine, Sudan, Venezuela, and El Salvador, reflecting ongoing conflicts and humanitarian crises in these countries. These extensions provide continued protection to eligible nationals and their families, allowing them to remain in the United States with authorization to work.
Ukraine
- Extension Period: April 20, 2025 – October 19, 2026
- Why Extended: Ongoing armed conflict with Russia, large-scale civilian casualties, and destruction of critical infrastructure necessitate protection for Ukrainian nationals.
- Re-Registration Period: January 17, 2025 – March 18, 2025
Sudan
- Extension Period: April 20, 2025 – October 19, 2026
- Why Extended: Armed conflict between Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) and Rapid Support Forces (RSF), mass displacement, famine, and widespread violence justify continued TPS designation.
- Re-Registration Period: January 17, 2025 – March 18, 2025
Venezuela
- Extension Period: April 3, 2025 – October 2, 2026
- Why Extended: Political instability, economic collapse, food insecurity, and repression by state actors prevent safe return for Venezuelans.
- Re-Registration Period: January 17, 2025 – September 10, 2025
El Salvador
- Extension Period: March 10, 2025 – September 9, 2026
- Why Extended: Protection is necessary for ongoing recovery from environmental disasters, inadequate access to clean water, and high levels of food insecurity.
- Re-Registration Period: January 17, 2025 – March 18, 2025
Looking Ahead
For TPS Beneficiaries
- Re-register during the specified periods to maintain your status and employment authorization.
- File Form I-821 for TPS and Form I-765 for a renewed Employment Authorization Document (EAD).
- Automatic EAD extensions are available to avoid employment gaps while applications are processed.
For Employers
- Verify employee work authorization using EADs or automatic extension notices.
- Stay informed about changes to TPS designations that may impact your workforce.
The extension of TPS designations reflects the US government’s commitment to providing temporary relief to nationals of countries facing extraordinary challenges. Employers, beneficiaries, and legal professionals must stay informed to ensure compliance and take full advantage of the protections afforded by TPS.
Source: Federal Register
