Trump administration ends TPS for thousands of Syrians in the U.S.
QAMISHLI, Syria (North Press) – The administration of U.S. President Donald Trump announced on Friday that it will end the Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for thousands of Syrian immigrants living in the United States, marking a significant shift in U.S. immigration policy.
The U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) cited the improving security situation in Syria following the ousting of President Bashar al-Assad last year as the primary reason for terminating the program.
Despite ongoing violence and instability in the country, DHS officials argue that conditions no longer justify continued protection for Syrians in the U.S.
“The war in Syria has persisted for over a decade, but now that the regime has been overthrown, conditions no longer prevent Syrians from returning,” said Tricia McLaughlin, DHS spokeswoman. She also referenced the persistent terrorist activity in Syria as a factor in the decision.
TPS, which was initially granted to Syrians in 2012 under the Obama administration due to the civil war, allows individuals to remain and work in the U.S. temporarily. As of March 2025, nearly 4,000 Syrians in the U.S. were under this protection.
With the expiration of TPS set for approximately 60 days, Syrians who do not have other legal grounds to stay in the U.S. may face deportation. The Trump administration has advised those affected to self-deport using the Customs and Border Protection (CBP) Home smartphone app.
The decision has sparked criticism from pro-immigrant advocates, who have characterized the administration’s actions as part of a broader effort to dismantle TPS for migrants from conflict-ridden countries. Legal challenges are expected, as TPS has been a critical lifeline for vulnerable populations over the years.