US ends TPS protection for Nepali immigrants

The United States Department of Homeland Security has officially terminated Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for Nepal, a move that compels thousands of Nepali immigrants to depart the U.S. or face formal deportation proceedings. This abrupt end to humanitarian relief comes after over a decade of protection for eligible Nepali citizens living in the United States.

Nepal was initially granted TPS on June 24, 2015, following a devastating 7.8-magnitude earthquake that claimed nearly 9,000 lives, crippled infrastructure, and severely disrupted the nation's economic stability. The special status allowed Nepali nationals to reside and work legally in the U.S. without the constant threat of removal.

According to the Department of Homeland Security, approximately 12,700 Nepali nationals were beneficiaries of TPS prior to this phase-out. While a significant portion, around 5,500 individuals, have successfully transitioned to permanent residency over the past ten years, a substantial number remain dependent on TPS for their legal standing and Employment Authorization Documents (EADs). The DHS has issued a broad notification, including Nepal among 13 designated countries whose TPS is being terminated, signaling a widespread tightening of immigration policies.