In a bombshell decision by Secretary Kristi Noem, the Department of Homeland Security is terminating the Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for Afghan nationals, a critical shift in U.S. immigration policy.
See the tweet below!
Noem announced the end of TPS for Afghanistan, effective July 12, 2025, stressing a stabilized situation in Afghanistan as justification.
This decision raises significant concerns for the 9,000 Afghans currently under TPS, facing potential deportation.
According to DHS, the designation of TPS for Afghanistan will expire on May 20, 2025, marking the end of temporary legal status for thousands of Afghans.
This decision came after a careful review of conditions in Afghanistan, which involved the consultation of U.S. citizenship and immigration services, along with the State Department.
The authorities concluded that improvements in Afghanistan’s security situation and the stabilizing economy allow for the safe return of Afghans.
Secretary Kristi Noem stated, “This administration is returning TPS to its original temporary intent.”
The DHS records cited concerns about fraud and threats to public safety among some TPS recipients as a factor in the decision.
There is confidence that the move aligns with the administration’s broader agenda to restore integrity to the immigration system.
“Afghanistan has had an improved security situation, and its stabilizing economy no longer prevent them from returning to their home country,” Noem said further.
The termination of the TPS program, originally granted due to Afghanistan’s conflict and instability, now coincides with the withdrawal of the U.S. military and the Taliban’s regain of power under the Biden administration.
Despite these changes, reports continue to emerge of concerning situations, like the United Nations highlighting ongoing decrees against women by the Taliban.
The Department of Homeland Security emphasized that the decision to terminate TPS furthers the national interest, assessing that the return of Afghan nationals does not pose a threat to personal safety.
Nevertheless, some advocacy groups condemn this decision, pointing out Afghans’ contributions to U.S. national security.
The move is a critical component of a broader crackdown on immigration practices, including ending TPS for Venezuelans.
As the U.S. government reassesses the status of current TPS holders, this action invites reactions from across the political spectrum and poses difficult questions about future immigration policies.
“Reviewing TPS designations is a key part of restoring integrity in our immigration system,” Noem declared.
The United States Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has announced the termination of Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for thousands of nationals from Afghanistan and Cameroon, placing them at risk of deportation in the coming months.https://t.co/T8PgZLQzEy pic.twitter.com/63xad36TlU
— Afghanistan International English (@AFIntl_En) April 12, 2025
The Department of Justice has filed an emergency appeal to lift blocks on ending TPS for Venezuelans, reflecting concerted efforts to address perceived fraud and uphold national security.
This ongoing dialogue on immigration policy continues to shape the national conversation and impacts thousands seeking stability and safety in America.
With the end date for TPS looming, affected Afghan nationals face an uncertain future. As this story unfolds, it remains a touchstone issue that continues to test the principles and effectiveness of America’s immigration policies.
