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US Ends Temporary Protected Status for Nepalese Migrants After 2015 Earthquake

The US Department of Homeland Security announced the termination of Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for Nepalese nationals, effective August 5, 2025. This decision follows a review confirming Nepal's recovery from the 2015 earthquake. Approximately 12,700 Nepalese migrants in the US, including 7,000 without permanent residency, are affected. They must leave or seek alternative immigration status by the deadline or risk deportation. This action aligns with wider US immigration policies emphasizing stricter control and revocation of temporary protections.

US Ends Temporary Protected Status for Nepalese Migrants After 2015 Earthquake

US Government Ends Temporary Protected Status for Nepal

The United States has announced the termination of Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for Nepalese nationals, a relief program that has shielded thousands from deportation since the catastrophic 2015 earthquake in Nepal.

Background and Justification for Termination

The Department of Homeland Security (DHS), under Secretary Kristi Noem, declared that after comprehensive review, Nepal has largely restored stability and infrastructure following the earthquake's devastation. The official notice highlighted significant improvement in disaster preparedness and recovery capacity, asserting that Nepal can now adequately accommodate the return of its nationals without undue hardship.

Scope of Impacted Individuals

  • Estimated 12,700 Nepalese nationals currently hold TPS status in the United States.
  • Among them, approximately 5,500 possess lawful permanent residency.
  • The remaining 7,000 individuals without permanent resident status face the termination of TPS protections.

The termination will become effective 60 days after the notice was published, culminating on August 5, 2025. Post this deadline, Nepalese migrants without permanent residency will be expected to either adjust their immigration status or leave the United States, with the risk of deportation thereafter.

Context Within Broader US Immigration Policy

The decision to end Nepal's TPS aligns with an ongoing trend under the current administration to rescind temporary relief programs granted to foreign nationals affected by crises. The Trump administration, resuming office in January 2025, has pledged vigorous immigration enforcement, including revoking certain protected statuses.

Previously, efforts during the 2017-2021 period aimed to curtail TPS enrollment, although some were delayed by judiciary challenges. Recent actions include ending TPS for Venezuelan nationals, with ongoing reviews and proposed terminations for Haitians, Afghans, and others.

Next Steps and Official Responses

Authorities urge affected Nepalese migrants to explore options for legal status adjustments. Both the Department of Homeland Security and the Nepalese embassy in Washington have yet to issue detailed public statements following the announcement.

Key Takeaways:

  • The US is terminating TPS for Nepal based on improved conditions post-2015 earthquake.
  • Approximately 7,000 Nepalese migrants without permanent residency must respond by August 5, 2025.
  • This move continues a broader policy to limit temporary immigration protections under the current US administration.
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