Important Updates on Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for Venezuela
If you or someone you know has Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for Venezuela, there have been significant changes that may affect your immigration status and work authorization. Here’s what you need to know:
DHS Announces TPS Expiration Dates for Venezuela
On January 28, 2025, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) confirmed that TPS protections for Venezuela will expire on the dates originally set for the two separate TPS designations:
2021 TPS designation: Valid until September 10, 2025
2023 TPS designation: Valid until April 2, 2025
Impact on TPS Holders
TPS holders under the 2021 designation can remain in status until September 10, 2025. A decision on whether to extend or terminate this designation will be announced by July 12, 2025.
TPS holders under the 2023 designation can remain in status until April 2, 2025. DHS announced termination of the designation on February 3, 2025.
Additional Impacts
Applications filed under the now-canceled extension (to October 2, 2026) will not be processed. USCIS will refund application fees and invalidate any employment authorization documents (EADs) or related approvals issued under the rescinded extension.
Automatic extensions based on the previously announced extension are no longer valid.
Termination of 2023 Venezuela TPS Designation
DHS has formally decided to end the 2023 Venezuela TPS designation effective April 4, 2025.
What This Means for Work Authorization
If you are a Venezuelan TPS holder, here’s what you need to know about your work authorization status:
TPS holders under the 2021 designation remain work-authorized until September 10, 2025, unless an extension is granted.
TPS holders under the 2023 designation are only work-authorized until April 2, 2025.
EADs issued under the now-canceled extension (showing an expiration date of October 2, 2026) are no longer valid.
Employers should verify work authorization documents to ensure compliance with updated regulations.
What Are Your Options?
If your TPS status is ending soon, you may have other legal options, including:
Applying for asylum or another form of relief that may allow you to apply for work authorization.
Seeking legal advice to determine eligibility for other immigration benefits.
Monitoring possible legal challenges that could impact TPS terminations.
Stay Informed and Seek Legal Guidance
Immigration policies can change quickly, and it’s crucial to stay up to date. If you need assistance navigating your options, consider speaking with an immigration attorney to discuss your next steps.
For more information or to schedule a consultation, contact our office today.