Jerry Jackson The Biden administration extended Temporary Protected Status (TPS) on Friday, allowing nearly one million migrants to remain in the United States. Migrants from Sudan, Ukraine, El Salvador, and Venezuela now have protection until 2026. This move contrasts sharply with President-elect Donald Trump’s plan to tighten immigration policies.
Key Details of the TPS Extension
The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) extended TPS by 18 months. This applies to 1,900 Sudanese, 103,700 Ukrainians, 232,000 Salvadorans, and 600,000 Venezuelans. Established in 1990, TPS provides temporary legal status to migrants from countries facing war, instability, or natural disasters.
Eligibility depends on specific criteria. Migrants must have continuously resided in the US by set dates. For instance, Venezuelans who arrived after July 31, 2023, are not eligible. DHS warned that individuals entering the US unlawfully will face enforcement measures.
“These decisions ensure protections for those affected by crises while allowing them to contribute here,” said DHS Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas.
Political Tensions and Legal Challenges
The extension counters Trump’s earlier efforts to end TPS. During his first term, he expelled 400,000 migrants before courts intervened. Both Trump and Vice President-elect JD Vance have pledged to end mass TPS grants if re-elected.
“We will stop large-scale TPS extensions,” Vance stated during his campaign. However, experts believe ending TPS could face legal obstacles. “TPS relies on a law Congress passed in 1990, and permanent changes require new legislation,” said Steve Yale-Loehr, a law professor at Cornell.
DHS emphasized strict vetting for TPS applicants. Migrants with felony convictions or multiple misdemeanors are barred from the program. Individuals flagged as security risks may face detention or deportation.
Addressing Security Concerns
The TPS extension has raised security questions. The Venezuelan Tren de Aragua gang, known for criminal activity, has expanded into over a dozen US states, including Florida and Texas. DHS assured that all applicants undergo rigorous security checks.
TPS also covers migrants from 16 other countries, such as Afghanistan, Haiti, and Syria. Last August, the Biden administration renewed TPS for 309,000 Haitians, extending their protection until February 2026.
The Biden administration’s decision reflects its focus on balancing humanitarian aid and security. However, this extension could fuel political and legal battles as the next administration pursues stricter immigration policies.