Venezuela’s TPS to End: What You Need to Know

The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has announced a significant change affecting many Venezuelan nationals living in the United States. The 2021 designation of Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for Venezuela will be terminated, with an expiration date set for September 10, 2025.

For many, TPS has been a lifeline, offering a haven and the ability to work legally in the U.S. This announcement marks a critical moment, requiring those affected to understand the changes and explore their options for maintaining legal status. The immigration law attorneys at Alvelo Immigration Legal Solutions, PLLC, will break down the DHS announcement, the reasons behind the decision, and the alternative pathways available for Venezuelans currently under TPS protection.

Overview of the TPS Termination

On September 10, 2025, the current Temporary Protected Status designation for Venezuela will officially expire. According to the announcement by Secretary of Homeland Security Kristi Noem, this decision will become effective 60 days after it is published in the Federal Register. This means that individuals who currently hold Venezuela TPS will need to find an alternative immigration status to remain in the U.S. lawfully beyond this date.

The DHS stated that after a review of country conditions, it was determined that the circumstances that initially warranted the TPS designation for Venezuela no longer exist. USCIS spokesman Matthew Tragesser noted that factors including national security, migration patterns, and foreign policy contributed to the decision. The administration believes that terminating the status is in the national interest of the United States.

What Are Your Options After TPS Ends?

With the termination of Venezuela’s temporary protected status, it is essential to act quickly and explore alternative immigration pathways. Waiting until the expiration date could put you at risk of becoming undocumented and subject to removal proceedings. Here are some of the potential alternatives available:

Asylum

Asylum is a form of protection for individuals who fear persecution in their home country due to their race, religion, nationality, political opinion, or membership in a particular social group.

• Application: To apply, you must file Form I-589, Application for Asylum and for Withholding of Removal.
• Key Benefit: Unlike other forms of protection, a successful asylum claim can eventually lead to a green card and U.S. citizenship.

Withholding of Removal & Convention Against Torture (CAT)

These are other forms of protection that prevent the U.S. government from deporting you to a country where you would likely face persecution or torture.

• Key Difference: While they offer protection from removal, they do not provide a path to a green card or permanent residency. Their primary purpose is to ensure your safety.

Other Immigration Pathways

Depending on your individual circumstances, other visa and green card options may be available:

• Family-Based Green Card: If you have a close family member who is a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident, they may be able to sponsor you.
• Employment-Based Visas/Green Cards: If you have a job offer from a U.S. employer willing to sponsor you, or if you possess skills that are in high demand, this could be a viable option.
• Student Visas: Enrolling in a U.S. educational institution can provide a temporary legal status.
• Agricultural Work Visas: The H-2A visa program offers temporary status for seasonal agricultural work.

Take Action to Secure Your Future

The end of Venezuela’s temporary protected status is a serious development that requires immediate attention. Understanding your eligibility for different immigration options is the first step toward securing your future in the United States. The application processes for these alternatives can be complex and require careful preparation.

At Alvelo Immigration Legal Solutions, PLLC, we understand that adjusting your status is a life-changing step. We know the process can seem overwhelming, but you don’t have to do it alone. We are here to provide you with professional and compassionate guidance every step of the way, helping you explore all available options to remain in the United States. Contact us today to schedule a consultation.