The U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has announced the termination of Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for Ethiopia, a decision that will affect thousands of Ethiopian nationals currently living and working legally in the United States under the program.

What Happened
On December 12, 2025, DHS, through U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), announced that Ethiopia will no longer be designated for Temporary Protected Status. According to DHS, the decision followed a review of country conditions and a determination that Ethiopia no longer meets the statutory requirements for TPS.
TPS is a humanitarian immigration program that allows individuals from designated countries experiencing conflict, disaster, or extraordinary conditions to remain in the U.S. temporarily, obtain work authorization, and be protected from deportation.

When the Change Takes Effect
TPS for Ethiopia will officially end on February 13, 2026
This provides a 60-day transition period from the date of the announcement
After this date, Ethiopian TPS holders who do not have another lawful immigration status will no longer be authorized to remain in the United States.

Who Is Affected
This decision impacts:
Ethiopian nationals currently holding TPS
Families who rely on TPS holders for income and stability
Employers and communities where TPS holders contribute to the workforce
Once TPS ends, affected individuals will:
Lose protection from deportation
Lose work authorization
Be required to leave the U.S. unless they obtain another legal status

Why DHS Says TPS Is Ending
DHS stated that:
TPS is intended to be temporary
Current conditions in Ethiopia, according to DHS assessments, no longer justify continued TPS designation
The department emphasized that TPS does not provide a permanent immigration pathway and must be reviewed and renewed periodically under U.S. law

What TPS Holders Can Do Next
Immigration advocates recommend that affected individuals:
Consult an immigration attorney or accredited legal representative
Explore options such as asylum, family-based petitions, student visas, or employment-based status
Avoid immigration scams or unverified legal advice

Looking Ahead
The termination of TPS for Ethiopia is part of a broader shift in U.S. immigration policy affecting multiple countries. The coming months will be critical for impacted individuals as legal, political, and community responses continue to develop