South Sudan TPS Termination: What’s Changing and What It Means

On November 5^th the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) announced that the country‑specific designation of South Sudan will be terminated for the Temporary Protected Status (TPS) program. The TPS designation for South Sudan will end on January 5, 2026.

What’s the background?

South Sudan was first designated for TPS in 2011 due to ongoing armed conflict and extraordinary temporary conditions in the country.
The designation was extended multiple times, including a six‑month extension from May 2025 through November 2025, because DHS was unable to make a timely determination by the statutory deadline.
In its termination decision, DHS determined that South Sudan “no longer continues to meet the conditions” for TPS under the statute.

Who is affected?

Nationals of South Sudan (and certain stateless individuals who last habitually resided in South Sudan) who currently hold TPS under that country’s designation. After January 5, 2026, they will no longer have TPS status.

What’s the timeline and transition?

Until January 5, 2026: The termination becomes effective then.
During the transition period, certain employment authorization documents (EADs) issued under the South Sudan TPS designation remain valid through that date.

What this means practically

TPS beneficiaries must prepare for loss of status. That means:
- Speaking with an immigration attorney as soon as possible to determine whether you have other lawful immigration options to remain in the United States.
- Understanding that after the termination date you may no longer be protected under TPS and may face removal unless you hold or obtain a different legal status.
Employers who have employees under South Sudan TPS must update their records and re‑verify employment eligibility when required, taking into account the termination date and extended EAD validity through January 5, 2026.

Final thoughts

The termination represents a departure in U.S. policy toward South Sudan, a nation still grappling with the aftermath of prolonged civil war and ongoing humanitarian crises. Although DHS claims that conditions have improved, humanitarian organizations and regional experts warn that stability remains fragile, and worsening economic hardship could make safe return difficult for many.

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