The United States government has officially ended Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for nationals of Somalia and South Sudan, adding to a growing list of countries affected by the Trump administration's immigration policy changes. The decision, announced via alerts on the US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) website on August 14, 2026, also includes Cameroon and Ethiopia, marking a significant rollback of humanitarian protections.
Termination Details and Effective Dates
According to USCIS, Somalia's TPS designation ended on August 14, 2026, while South Sudan's termination took effect on August 7, 2026. The agency stated that former Secretary of Homeland Security Kristi Noem concluded that both countries no longer met the legal conditions required for TPS designation.
In an official alert, USCIS explained: "After reviewing country conditions and consulting with the appropriate U.S. government agencies, former Secretary of Homeland Security Kristi Noem determined that Somalia no longer met the conditions for its designation for Temporary Protected Status." Similarly, for South Sudan, the agency confirmed that Noem determined it no longer qualified, with the termination effective August 7, 2026.
Understanding TPS and Its Implications
TPS is a humanitarian protection that allows nationals of designated countries already living in the US to stay and work legally when conditions in their home country, such as armed conflict, natural disasters, or other extraordinary circumstances, make it unsafe to return. Holders of TPS are shielded from deportation, can apply for work permits, and may seek travel authorization. However, TPS does not lead to permanent residency and does not confer any other form of immigration status.
The termination of TPS does not automatically mean every affected individual faces immediate deportation. Some may hold separate lawful immigration status or qualify for other forms of protection, as noted by immigration experts.
Full List of Affected Countries
The 12 countries whose TPS designations have been terminated are: Haiti, Syria, Yemen, Afghanistan, Cameroon, Nepal, Honduras, Nicaragua, Venezuela, South Sudan, Myanmar, and Somalia. USCIS noted that several of these terminations remain subject to active court challenges. A federal judge in Massachusetts blocked Ethiopia's termination in January 2026 while the government considered its next steps. Legal proceedings have also delayed or complicated the terminations affecting Honduras, Nepal, and Nicaragua.
These moves are part of the Trump administration's wider review of TPS designations since taking office. The administration has argued that many countries have improved conditions and no longer warrant TPS status, but advocates and legal challenges have contested these decisions.
The impact on affected nationals is significant, as many have lived in the US for years, built families, and established careers. The termination could force thousands to leave or face deportation, although some may explore other legal avenues. The court challenges could still alter the final outcome for some countries, providing a glimmer of hope for those affected.
