Thu Nov 06 07:56:58 UTC 2025: News Article:
US to End Temporary Protected Status for South Sudanese Nationals
Juba, South Sudan – The United States government will terminate Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for South Sudan, effective January 5, 2026, the Department of Homeland Security announced. This decision will impact South Sudanese nationals residing in the U.S. who have been permitted to remain legally due to ongoing armed conflict and instability in their home country.
According to a statement, Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem determined that conditions in South Sudan no longer meet the requirements for TPS. The U.S. government says it will offer incentives for South Sudanese to self-deport, including a complimentary plane ticket, a $1,000 exit bonus, and potential future legal immigration opportunities for those who report their departure using the Customs and Border Protection mobile app.
The decision is a setback for South Sudanese citizens, as the country remains politically fragile. A 2018 peace deal between forces loyal to President Salva Kiir and former deputy Riek Machar is reportedly faltering. The arrest of Machar earlier this year on criminal charges, including treason, has further destabilized the situation. President Kiir suspended Machar from his role as First Vice President to face these charges.
The move aligns with a broader trend under previous administrations to end protections for immigrants, including Venezuelans and Haitians. South Sudan had been designated for TPS since its independence in 2011, with the designation being renewed every 18 months. The announcement published by The Hindu (an Indian paper) will likely be met with criticism from advocacy groups.
First Piper 