USCIS Announces Termination of TPS Designation for Somalia

On January 14, 2026, the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) published a notice to terminate the Temporary Protected Status (TPS) designation of Somalia.  The TPS designation and associated benefits will terminate effective March 17, 2026.

TPS is a humanitarian program that allows eligible nationals from designated countries to live and work in the United States for a limited period when conditions in their home country prevent safe return, such as armed conflict or natural disasters.  TPS does not lead to permanent resident status but provides protection from deportation and affords employment authorization while the designation is in effect.

Somalia was designated for TPS until March 17, 2026, and the USCIS’ announcement confirms that the designation will not be extended.  Both the TPS protection and employment authorization for Somali TPS recipients will end on March 17, 2026.  Employment authorization documents (EADs) issued to these Somali nationals in the A12 or C19 category that show expiration dates of March 17, 2023 and September 17, 2024 are automatically extended until March 17, 2026.  Employers who employ individuals using EADs issued under Somalia’s TPS designation must reverify their employment authorization no later than March 17, 2026.

Since taking office, the current administration has consistently moved to terminate TPS designations as they approach the existing expiration dates.  Each termination has faced legal challenges in court, so employers should continue to monitor agency guidance and legal developments closely.

Vorys attorneys are closely tracking updates on the termination of TPS and other immigration programs with employment authorization that affect employers and their foreign national workers.  We will continue to provide updates as new information becomes available.