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U.S. Ends Temporary Protected Status for Yemen, Grants 60-Day Exit Period to Affected Migrants

February 15, 2026 8:24 am

U.S. Ends Temporary Protected Status for Yemen, Grants 60-Day Exit Period to Affected Migrants

The U.S. government has decided to terminate Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for Yemen. Affected Yemeni nationals now have a 60-day window to leave the U.S. or find alternative legal status. This shift in immigration policy will significantly impact many Yemeni residents who have made their lives in the country.

Overview of the TPS Termination

Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem announced that TPS for Yemen will officially end 60 days after the notice appears in the Federal Register. This change means that Yemeni nationals who depend solely on TPS will lose their legal status.

Understanding Temporary Protected Status

Temporary Protected Status is a program allowing individuals from certain countries to live and work in the U.S. legally when facing severe crises, such as armed conflict or natural disasters.

Why Yemen Initially Received TPS

Yemen was designated for TPS on September 3, 2015. At that time, the U.S. recognized the ongoing armed conflict and the risks of returning individuals to unsafe conditions. Over the years, this status was renewed several times, reflecting that the situation in Yemen remained perilous. Through TPS, eligible Yemeni nationals were able to:

Stay in the U.S. legally
Apply for work authorization
Avoid deportation during the designation period

While initially temporary, this program became a critical support system for many families.

Reasons for Ending TPS for Yemen

Secretary Noem stated that following a reevaluation, Yemen no longer meets the legal criteria for TPS. Continuing this program would not align with U.S. national interests. This decision marks a significant policy change after many years of renewals.

Next Steps for Yemeni TPS Holders

Once this termination is effective, TPS protection will cease. Those lacking another form of legal status, such as asylum, a green card, or a valid visa, will have 60 days to leave voluntarily. After this period, they may face:

Arrest and removal from the U.S.
Long-term or permanent bans on re-entry if deported
Time is crucial as the countdown begins once the notice is published.

Voluntary Departure and Options Available

The Department of Homeland Security is promoting voluntary departure. Individuals can use the CBP Home app, operated by U.S. Customs and Border Protection, to report their exit. By opting for voluntary departure, individuals may receive:

A complimentary plane ticket
A $2,600 exit bonus
Possible future pathways for legal immigration

This approach aims to provide a safer and more organized way for individuals to leave the country.

Similar Actions Toward Other Countries

The U.S. has also moved to end TPS for other nations, including Sudan, Nicaragua, Haiti, El Salvador, and Nepal. This indicates a broad reassessment of temporary protection programs.

Impact on Travel and Immigration

This development serves as a warning that the U.S. may tighten TPS policies. The original intention of TPS was to provide emergency protection. Ending Yemen’s designation signals a stricter review of these extensions.

For Yemeni nationals currently in the U.S., the pressing question is whether they have other legal options. Those who do should consult an immigration attorney promptly. Those without options need to prepare carefully for the approaching deadline. This major policy update carries real consequences for families, workers, and communities that have relied on TPS for years. Planning is essential as the 60-day window nears its close.