In a bold move, Secretary of Homeland Security Kristi Noem has announced the end of Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for Afghans in the U.S., reflecting her agency’s commitment to reassessing immigration measures.
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This decision leaves over 9,000 Afghan nationals facing possible deportation.
Noem declared that Afghanistan’s TPS designation will expire on May 20, 2025, with complete termination set for July 12, 2025.
The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) determined that conditions in Afghanistan have improved enough, including a stabilizing economy and enhanced security, to no longer warrant TPS protection.
This aligns with the administration’s goal of returning TPS to a truly temporary measure.
In her statement, Secretary Noem emphasized, “Afghanistan has had an improved security situation, and its stabilizing economy no longer prevent them from returning to their home country.”
This move sparks a significant shift in U.S. policy and raises numerous questions regarding the fate of those whose livelihoods have hinged on TPS.
The announcement prompted mixed reactions across the nation.
DHS’s decision is reported to be backed by thorough evaluations, including consultations with the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services and the Department of State.
These assessments reportedly concluded that returning Afghan nationals poses no threat to their personal safety.
Moreover, the move seeks to reinforce integrity in the immigration system amidst concerns about fraud and public safety threats among some TPS recipients.
“This administration is returning TPS to its original temporary intent,” said Secretary Kristi Noem.
“We’ve reviewed the conditions in Afghanistan with our interagency partners, and they do not meet the requirements for a TPS designation,” she added.
Despite these assurances, concerns remain about the decision’s impact.
Refugee rights groups and nonprofits sharply criticize the decision, crediting Afghan nationals with contributing significantly to U.S. national security.
This termination, part of a broader immigration crackdown, also paves the way for further debate regarding U.S. immigration policy and how it addresses humanitarian needs.
DHS Secretary Kristi Noem today announced the termination of Temporary Protected Status for Afghanistan. The TPS designation for the country expires on May 20, effective on July 12.
Noem determined the conditions in Afghanistan no longer meet the statutory requirements after…— Stephanie Myers (@_StephanieMyers) May 12, 2025
