Trump’s DHS reverses additional immigration benefits for foreign nationals established by Biden

Changes to Temporary Protected Status for Ethiopia

The Trump administration’s Department of Homeland Security is moving to end Temporary Protected Status (TPS) that had been afforded to several nations during the previous administration.

On Friday, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services released a statement about the termination of TPS for Ethiopia. The announcement indicated that the current designation was set to lapse, leaving Ethiopian nationals—who lack other legal means to remain in the U.S.—with a 60-day window to exit the country.

Those departing are encouraged to use the Customs and Border Protection’s CBP Home mobile app. As an incentive, they will receive a flight ticket along with a $1,000 exit bonus.

Starting February 13, the Department of Homeland Security could commence arrests and deportations for individuals who have not chosen to leave voluntarily. These individuals will also be barred from re-entering the United States.

“The designation of Temporary Protected Status is not intended to be permanent,” a spokesperson from USCIS noted. The spokesperson added that the current situation in Ethiopia does not present a significant threat to the personal safety of its nationals. Secretary Kristi Noem emphasized that the decision aims to uphold the integrity of the immigration system.

Previously, TPS was initiated for Ethiopia in December 2022 under President Biden, citing ongoing armed conflict and unusual circumstances. The Biden administration highlighted issues like large-scale displacement and severe climate challenges that further complicated humanitarian access to food, water, and healthcare.

Mayorkas, the former DHS Secretary, had previously extended the TPS designation until April 2024. However, the current administration’s stance indicates a shift in perspective, as it now claims that conditions have improved, even though sporadic violence persists.

Under Trump’s leadership, TPS has been revoked for several countries, including Burma, Haiti, South Sudan, Syria, and Venezuela. Conversely, nations such as El Salvador, Lebanon, Somalia, Sudan, Ukraine, and Yemen will maintain their TPS status until at least 2026.