WASHINGTON — The U.S. Supreme Court on Monday lifted a lower court’s injunction, permitting the Trump administration to terminate Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for nearly 350,000 Venezuelan nationals living in the U.S. The unsigned emergency order paves the way for deportations to begin immediately, overturning a prior ruling that had extended protections until October 2026.
Justice Ketanji Brown Jackson was the lone dissenter in the court’s brief two-paragraph decision. The move reverses a Biden-era extension from 2023 that had shielded Venezuelan TPS holders—many with valid work permits—from removal.
What Is TPS?
TPS is a humanitarian immigration program that grants temporary residency and work authorization to individuals from countries facing armed conflict, environmental disasters, or other extraordinary crises. Venezuela was first designated for TPS in 2021 under President Biden, with a 2023 extension set to expire in late 2026.
Legal and Humanitarian Fallout
The ruling stems from a lawsuit filed by TPS recipients and advocacy groups, who argue that ending protections will inflict severe economic and humanitarian harm. While the decision permits mass deportations, it leaves open the possibility for individuals to contest their removals in court.
DHS Hails Decision as Border Policy Win
The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) applauded the ruling, framing it as a restoration of stricter immigration enforcement.
“The Biden administration abused parole programs to admit poorly vetted migrants—from MS-13 gang members to individuals with terrorist ties,” said DHS spokesperson Tricia McLaughlin. “The Trump administration is reinstating the rule of law to protect national security.”
Broader Immigration Crackdown
The decision marks the latest in a series of aggressive immigration policy shifts by the Trump administration, which has sought to dismantle Biden-era protections and accelerate deportations.
Last week, the Supreme Court blocked the administration from using the 18th-century Alien Enemies Act to deport a group of Venezuelans in Texas alleged to have gang ties. Meanwhile, TPS for Haitian nationals is expected to be rescinded in the coming months, potentially exposing hundreds of thousands more to deportation.
What’s Next for Affected Venezuelans?
While TPS protections are set to expire, legal pathways—such as asylum, family-based petitions, or employment visas—may remain available. Immigration advocates urge affected individuals to consult legal experts promptly.
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