The Trump administration has decided to end the Temporary Protected Status (TPS) granted to thousands of Nepali nationals after the devastating 2015 earthquake in Nepal. According to Reuters, U.S. Department of Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem announced the decision, stating that Nepal has largely recovered from the earthquake and no longer qualifies for the protection.
The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) cited significant improvements in Nepal’s disaster preparedness, response capacity, and reconstruction as reasons for ending the designation. It also said Nepal is now capable of managing the return of its citizens.
According to DHS estimates, around 12,700 Nepali citizens are currently living in the U.S. under TPS. Of them, about 5,500 have already obtained lawful permanent resident (green card) status. The termination of TPS will take effect 60 days from the announcement, giving the remaining approximately 7,000 Nepalis until August 5, 2025, to either leave the U.S. or change their immigration status.
After that date, those who remain without legal status could face deportation, as noted by Reuters.TPS allows nationals from countries affected by natural disasters, armed conflicts, or other extraordinary conditions to temporarily live and work in the U.S. without the risk of deportation.
