U.S COMMITTEE FOR REFUGEES AND IMMIGRANTS
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Administration Revokes Protections for Venezuelans

January 30, 2025

The U.S. Committee for Refugees and Immigrants (USCRI) is dismayed by the Administration’s revocation of Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for Venezuela. Just weeks ago, on January 10, 2025, an extension for TPS was announced, and on January 17, 2025, it was published to the Federal Register—only to be abruptly rescinded.

TPS is a lifesaving humanitarian tool for individuals when their country is experiencing ongoing armed conflict, natural disaster, or other extraordinary and temporary conditions. This revocation disregards the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Venezuela and leaves hundreds of thousands of people at risk—undermining their ability to live in safety and stability.

“There are over 600,000 Venezuelans who could now lose their temporary legal protections in the United States,” stated USCRI President & CEO Eskinder Negash. “This revocation will disrupt their lives.”

The Administration’s decision to vacate the TPS extension for Venezuela and revert to guidance announced in October 2023 leaves individuals and their families in heightened uncertainty awaiting review. This includes mixed-status families with children and spouses who are U.S. citizens.

“TPS provides people with the opportunity to legally work and contribute to the U.S. economy. Forcing individuals to return to a homeland that remains unsafe destabilizes their futures,” said Negash. “We urge the Administration to effectively use this critical protection mechanism at its disposal.”

Update as of February 5, 2025: Termination of the October 3, 2023 TPS Designation for Venezuela

 

On February 1, 2025, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security announced the termination of the October 3, 2023 designation of Venezuela for TPS. The designation will be terminated effective at 11:59 p.m. on April 7, 2025—ending all related benefits associated with the 2023 designation. A Federal Register Notice was published on February 5. This termination is not applicable to the 2021 designation of Venezuela for TPS, which will remain in effect until September 10, 2025. DHS must make a decision regarding the 2021 designation by July 12, 2025.

 

USCRI, founded in 1911, is a non-governmental, not-for-profit international organization committed to working on behalf of refugees and immigrants and their transition to a dignified life.

For press inquiries, please contact: [email protected]


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