The Department of Homeland Security, led by Secretary Kristi Noem, has canceled former Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas’ extension of Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for Venezuela, which was set to last until January 2025. This decision is the first time an administration has actively revoked a TPS extension instead of letting it expire naturally. Currently, about 600,000 Venezuelans in the U. S. hold TPS.
Mayorkas had extended TPS for Venezuela in 2023 for 18 months, allowing eligible beneficiaries to remain protected until October 2026. However, because of Secretary Noem's recent action, these protections will end on April 2, 2025. This affects individuals who obtained TPS under both the 2021 and 2023 designations.
DHS cited legal issues with Mayorkas’ extension, saying it was not authorized by law. They explained that the former secretary's actions created confusion by merging the 2021 and 2023 designations. By vacating this extension, DHS aims to clarify current TPS regulations and provide better guidance.
DHS must now decide whether to extend TPS for Venezuela before February 5, or benefits will renew automatically for six months. The basis for TPS designations includes ongoing armed conflict, natural disasters, or extraordinary conditions preventing safe return. Venezuela received TPS due to severe humanitarian crises under the current regime, having first been designated in March 2021. DED for Venezuela ended in 2022.
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