Time Is Running Out for Yemeni TPS Holders. Here's What You Need to Do Now.
For nearly eleven years, Temporary Protected Status (TPS) has been a lifeline for Yemeni nationals living in the United States. That protection ends on May 4, 2026 and if you or someone you know currently holds TPS for Yemen, the time to act is right now.
On February 13, 2026, Secretary of Homeland Security Kristi Noem announced that Yemen no longer meets the statutory requirements for TPS. The official termination notice was published on March 3, starting a 60-day countdown. That countdown ends in less than a month.
What Happens If You Do Nothing
Doing nothing is not a neutral option. Once TPS expires, Yemeni nationals without another lawful immigration status will be vulnerable to detention and removal proceedings. Work permits tied to TPS will also expire, meaning you will no longer be authorized to work in the United States after May 4.
A removal order can carry long-term consequences, including bars that make future immigration options far more difficult or impossible. The time to explore your options is now, not after the deadline passes.
Your Options Before May 4th
1. Asylum If you fear persecution in Yemen due to race, religion, nationality, political opinion, or membership in a particular social group, you may qualify for asylum. Your TPS status has been pausing the one-year asylum filing deadline, but that pause ends when TPS terminates. Filing before May 4 is critical to preserve this option. Asylum, if granted, offers permanent protection and an eventual path to a green card.
2. Family-Based Green Card If you have a close family member who is a U.S. citizen such as a spouse, parent, or child over 21, you may be eligible for a family-based green card. Spouses and unmarried children of lawful permanent residents may also qualify. This process requires a petition through USCIS, so start immediately if this applies to you.
3. Employment-Based Visa If your employer is willing to sponsor you, work visas such as the H-1B may offer a legal pathway forward. This process takes time, so your employer would need to act quickly. Speak with an immigration attorney about whether this is a realistic option for your situation.
4. Other Humanitarian Protections Depending on your circumstances, you may qualify for other forms of relief, including withholding of removal or protection under the Convention Against Torture (CAT). These options are complex and require guidance from a licensed attorney.
Key Dates to Know
February 13, 2026: DHS announces termination of TPS for Yemen
March 3, 2026: Federal Register notice published; 60-day window begins
May 4, 2026: TPS expires at 11:59 p.m. Work permits end. Removal proceedings may begin.
May 5, 2026: Employers must reverify employment eligibility for Yemeni TPS holders
A Note on Legal Challenges
TPS terminations for other countries including Myanmar and Ethiopia have been challenged and blocked in court. Similar challenges may arise for Yemen. However, depending on a potential lawsuit is not a plan. Pursue your options now, and monitor any litigation updates through a licensed attorney.
This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Consult a licensed immigration attorney regarding your individual circumstances.
