Trump Administration Ends Temporary Protected Status for Nepalese Nationals in the U.S.

KKN Gurugram Desk | In a significant policy shift, the Trump administration has announced the termination of Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for approximately 12,700 Nepalese nationals residing in the United States. This decision, effective August 5, 2025, follows a comprehensive review by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), which concluded that Nepal has sufficiently recovered from the devastating 2015 earthquake that initially warranted the TPS designation.

Background on TPS for Nepal

TPS is a humanitarian program that offers temporary legal status and work authorization to nationals from countries experiencing extraordinary conditions such as armed conflict or environmental disasters. Nepal was granted TPS in 2015 after a catastrophic earthquake caused widespread destruction and loss of life. The designation allowed Nepalese nationals already in the U.S. to remain and work legally, providing relief during a period when returning home was deemed unsafe.

Rationale Behind the Termination

According to DHS Secretary Kristi Noem, the decision to end TPS for Nepal is based on significant improvements in the country’s conditions. The DHS stated, “There are notable improvements in environmental disaster preparedness and response capacity, as well as substantial reconstruction from the earthquake’s destruction such that there is no longer a disruption of living conditions, and Nepal is able to handle adequately the return of its nationals.”

Implications for Nepalese TPS Holders

The termination affects approximately 12,700 Nepalese TPS beneficiaries. Of these, around 5,500 have already obtained lawful permanent residency in the U.S. The remaining 7,000 individuals must either adjust their immigration status or prepare to depart the country by the August 5, 2025 deadline. Failure to do so could result in deportation proceedings.

Automatic Extension of Work Permits

To facilitate a smooth transition, the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has automatically extended the validity of Employment Authorization Documents (EADs) for Nepalese TPS holders through August 5, 2025. This extension applies to EADs with expiration dates ranging from June 24, 2018, to June 24, 2025. Employers are advised to accept these extended EADs as valid proof of work authorization during this period.

Legal Challenges and Historical Context

This is not the first time the Trump administration has attempted to terminate TPS for Nepal. A similar move in 2018 faced legal challenges, resulting in a court-ordered stay that allowed beneficiaries to remain in the U.S. The Biden administration later paused these efforts, maintaining the TPS designation during its tenure.

Broader Immigration Policy Trends

The termination of TPS for Nepal aligns with the Trump administration’s broader immigration policy objectives, which include reducing the number of individuals residing in the U.S. under temporary legal protections. Similar actions have been taken against TPS designations for countries like Haiti, Afghanistan, and Venezuela. These moves have sparked debates over the humanitarian obligations of the U.S. and the potential impact on immigrant communities.

The revocation of TPS for Nepalese nationals marks a significant development in U.S. immigration policy. Affected individuals are urged to consult with immigration attorneys to explore alternative legal avenues for remaining in the country or to prepare for a return to Nepal. As the August 5, 2025 deadline approaches, the situation underscores the complexities and human impacts of shifting immigration policies.