Temporary Protected Status for Venezuelans in the U.S. Extended Through 2026

The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has announced an 18-month extension of Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for Venezuelan nationals in the United States. This benefit will be in effect from April 3, 2025, through October 2, 2026, allowing approximately 600,000 current beneficiaries to maintain their legal status and work authorization, provided they meet the re-registration requirements.

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What Is TPS and Why Is It Being Extended?

TPS is a program that shields nationals of certain countries affected by armed conflicts, natural disasters, or extraordinary conditions, preventing their deportation and granting them temporary work permits. In Venezuela’s case, conditions such as political crises, humanitarian emergencies, violence, food shortages, inadequate healthcare, and other basic service deficiencies have prompted this extension.

Who Qualifies?

• Residing in the U.S. since July 31, 2023, or earlier.
• Meeting eligibility under previous TPS designations from 2021 or 2023.
• Complying with national security and criminal background requirements. Individuals with convictions for serious crimes or multiple misdemeanors are ineligible.

Venezuelan nationals who arrived after July 31, 2023, or entered the country irregularly, are not eligible for TPS.

Re-Registration and Work Authorization

Beneficiaries must re-register within the designated period, which will be announced in the Federal Register, extending through September 10, 2025. Additionally, previously issued Employment Authorization Documents (EADs) will remain automatically valid through April 2, 2026, while renewals are processed.

Re-Registration Procedures

U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) will continue processing pending applications filed under prior designations. Those with a pending Form I-821 or I-765 do not need to file new applications.

Implications

The TPS extension provides significant relief to thousands of Venezuelans facing dire conditions in their home country. This program not only offers them stability in the U.S. but also ensures their continued economic and social contributions to the country.

For more information, individuals can consult the official notice in the Federal Register, which outlines the criteria, deadlines, and necessary procedures.

From. https://www.dhs.gov/news/2025/01/10/dhs-extend-temporary-protected-status-venezuela

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