U.S. Ends Temporary Protected Status for Four African Nations

The administration of U.S. President Donald Trump has terminated Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for nationals of Somalia, South Sudan, Cameroon, and Ethiopia residing in the United States.

This decision represents a significant rollback of the humanitarian immigration program that allowed eligible foreign nationals to remain and work legally due to adverse conditions in their home countries. According to updates from the U.S.

Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) on August 14, Somalia's TPS designation is terminated effective August 14, 2026, while South Sudan's designation ends on August 7, 2026. These decisions were made following evaluations by former Secretary of Homeland Security Kristi Noem, who concluded that these countries no longer met the necessary conditions for TPS.

TPS provides temporary humanitarian protection, allowing eligible nationals to remain in the U.S. during crises. However, the termination does not automatically result in deportation, as individuals may have other lawful immigration statuses or protections.

The USCIS noted ongoing litigation affecting TPS for other countries, including Ethiopia.