The Trump administration has ended Temporary Protected Status for nearly 350,000 Venezuelans, sparking controversy and concern among affected individuals and immigration advocates.
At a Glance
- Temporary Protected Status (TPS) revoked for approximately 348,000 Venezuelans in the U.S.
- Affected individuals will lose protection from deportation and work permits in 60 days
- Decision based on claimed improvements in Venezuela’s economy, public health, and crime rates
- Venezuelan community leaders and activists express feelings of betrayal and concern for safety
- Legal challenges to the TPS termination are expected
Trump Administration Ends TPS for Venezuelans
In a significant shift in immigration policy, the Trump administration has revoked Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for over 348,000 Venezuelans living in the United States. This decision, announced by Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem, marks a departure from the previous administration’s approach and has sent shockwaves through the Venezuelan American community.
The revocation means that affected Venezuelans will lose their protection from deportation and work permits 60 days after the official publication of the decision. This sudden change has left many in the community feeling vulnerable and uncertain about their future in the United States.
Breaking News: The Trump administration is terminating the Temporary Protected Status designation that currently protects hundreds of thousands of Venezuelan migrants in the U.S. from deportation. https://t.co/tuGOi5V3lD
— CBS News Miami (@CBSMiami) February 2, 2025
It’s about time temporary protection came to an end!
According to Secretary Noem, the decision to end TPS for Venezuelans is based on improvements in Venezuela’s economy, public health, and crime rates. The administration argues that these changes have created safer conditions for nationals to return, no longer justifying the need for temporary protected status.
The Venezuelan American community’s reaction to the TPS revocation has been one of shock and dismay. Obviously.
Many community leaders and activists have expressed deep concern about the potential consequences of returning to Venezuela.
“Returning would be almost suicidal,” Venezuelan activist Beatriz Olavarria said.
Isn’t it racist to say these countries aren’t safe?
In response to the TPS termination, Venezuelan American groups are planning legal challenges. Because of course they are.
