The U.S. administration has announced the end of Temporary Protected Status for Ethiopian nationals, ordering TPS holders to leave within 60 days or risk arrest and deportation. About 5,000 people received TPS in December 2022 after armed conflict in several regions. Community leaders and advocates have criticized the decision and questioned the short timeframe, while the State Department continues to warn against travel to parts of Ethiopia due to violence and security risks.
US Ends Temporary Protected Status For Ethiopians — TPS Holders Given 60 Days To Leave
A chart showing African migrant populations in the US.
The current U.S. administration has announced it will terminate Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for Ethiopian nationals living in the United States, ordering beneficiaries to depart within 60 days or face possible arrest and deportation.
"Conditions in Ethiopia no longer pose a serious threat to the personal safety of returning Ethiopian nationals," the Department of Homeland Security said in a statement.
About 5,000 Ethiopian immigrants were granted TPS when the designation was made in December 2022 after armed conflict in multiple regions of the country. The decision to end TPS has prompted alarm among recipients, community leaders and immigrant advocates, many of whom say the 60-day window is too short for families to arrange safe return or to make alternative plans.
Community leaders and local organizations have publicly disputed the administration's assessment of conditions on the ground in Ethiopia and raised concerns about the practical and humanitarian consequences of an abrupt end to protections.
The U.S. State Department continues to caution against travel to parts of Ethiopia, advising travelers to reconsider plans "due to sporadic violent conflict, civil unrest, crime, communications disruptions, terrorism and kidnapping in border areas."
This policy change may prompt legal and advocacy responses as affected individuals and groups consider their options. DHS says individuals who do not depart may be subject to removal proceedings.
What TPS Means: TPS is a temporary immigration benefit that shields nationals of certain countries from deportation and allows them to work legally in the U.S. when their home country is experiencing conditions—such as armed conflict or natural disaster—that make return unsafe.
