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The United States Department of Homeland Security (DHS) announced this Friday the extension of Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for Venezuelan citizens for 18 months, following Nicolás Maduro's swearing-in as president despite public opposition in his country.
This measure, which extends from April 3, 2025, to October 2, 2026, addresses the humanitarian crisis that continues to affect Venezuela, characterized by the severe political and economic situation under Nicolás Maduro's regime, notes the statement.
The extreme conditions of violence, crime, and the lack of access to essential resources such as food, medicine, healthcare, water, electricity, and fuel continue to impact the population, the text emphasizes.
The DHS, after reviewing the conditions in the country and consulting with other government agencies, determined that the TPS for Venezuelans should be extended for another period to protect those who cannot safely return to Venezuela.
As of the publication date, Venezuelans who have continuously resided in the U.S. until July 31, 2023, are eligible for this extension.
Those who arrived after that date do not qualify for TPS. Furthermore, those who have not entered the country through legal channels will be subject to penalties and potential deportation actions, especially after the elected president Donald Trump pledged to carry out the largest deportation of migrants in history.
Current TPS beneficiaries must re-register between the publication of the notice in the Federal Register and September 10, 2025, to maintain their status and work authorization.
The DHS emphasizes that, due to high demand, not all beneficiaries will be able to receive their new Employment Authorization Document (EAD) before the current one expires, so the validity of certain EADs will be automatically extended until April 2, 2026.
The background verification process will remain stringent, and those who pose a threat to national security or public order may be detained, deported, or investigated by other federal agencies, the organization warned.
Individuals with convictions for serious crimes or two misdemeanors are not eligible for TPS.
DHS will also continue processing pending TPS applications submitted under previous designations for Venezuela (2021 and 2023). Applicants will not need to submit new applications, as their status will be reviewed and approved as appropriate.
A detailed notice in the Federal Register will explain the complete procedures for re-registration and renewal of EADs.
Frequently Asked Questions about Temporary Protected Status for Venezuelans in the U.S.
What is Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for Venezuelans?
The Temporary Protected Status (TPS) is a measure from the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) of the United States that allows Venezuelan citizens to legally reside and work in the U.S. due to the extraordinary conditions in Venezuela that prevent their safe return.
How long has the TPS for Venezuelans been extended?
The TPS for Venezuelans has been extended for 18 months, from April 3, 2025, to October 2, 2026. This extension is a response to the humanitarian crisis in Venezuela under Nicolás Maduro's regime.
Who is eligible for the TPS extension?
To be eligible for the TPS extension, Venezuelans must have continuously resided in the U.S. until July 31, 2023. Those who arrived after that date do not qualify for TPS. Additionally, immigrants who did not enter legally will be subject to penalties and possible deportation actions.
What happens if a TPS beneficiary does not re-register in time?
Current TPS beneficiaries must re-register between the publication of the notice in the Federal Register and September 10, 2025, to maintain their status and work authorization. Failing to do so may result in the loss of their legal status and the authorization to work in the U.S.
How does the extension of TPS affect immigrants with humanitarian parole?
For Venezuelans who arrived under the humanitarian parole program before July 31, 2023, the TPS extension offers an option to regularize their immigration status and avoid deportation. Those with humanitarian parole should seek legal advice to explore all available options, as the parole will not be renewed.
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