350,000 VENEZUELANS LOSE PROTECTED STATUS AFTER SUPREME COURT RULING

In a major shift in U.S. immigration policy, the Supreme Court has cleared the way for the Trump administration to terminate Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for approximately 350,000 Venezuelan nationals, reversing legal protections that have been in place since 2023.

The ruling removes a federal court order that had previously blocked the termination of Venezuela’s TPS designation, which was granted due to the country’s ongoing political and humanitarian crisis.

Supreme Court Decision Ends Legal Protections

The decision, issued on May 19, 2025, grants the Trump administration’s appeal to rescind the TPS designation. In practice, the Court’s order effectively strips protection from hundreds of thousands of Venezuelans who had been allowed to live and work legally in the United States.

Many TPS holders now face the risk of deportation, despite residing and establishing lives in the U.S. over the past several years.

Background: Venezuela's TPS Designation

TPS for Venezuela was granted in 2023 due to severe instability, widespread poverty, and human rights concerns arising under the Maduro regime. The status allowed Venezuelan nationals already in the U.S. to stay temporarily and receive work authorization.

The Trump administration, which has sought to narrow the scope of humanitarian-based immigration programs, argued that conditions no longer warranted the continuation of TPS for Venezuela.

What Happens Next?

With TPS protections officially lifted:

• Venezuelan nationals under the 2023 designation lose legal status and work authorization unless they qualify for another form of relief.

• Deportation proceedings could begin for those unable to adjust their immigration status through other means.

• Immigrant rights groups and legal advocates have expressed deep concern and are exploring possible legislative or legal responses.

•  TPS holders are encouraged to consult an immigration attorney as soon as possible to explore options for remaining in the U.S. legally.

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