Background

The U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) announced the termination of Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for Nepal on June 5, 2025, via a Federal Register notice, with the program ending at 11:59 p.m. on August 5, 2025—60 days after the announcement. TPS, enacted by Congress in 1990, grants temporary legal status and work authorization to nationals of countries facing extraordinary conditions, such as natural disasters or conflict, that prevent safe return. Nepal was designated for TPS in June 2015 after a 7.8-magnitude earthquake and aftershocks killed over 8,600 people, displaced 2.8 million, and destroyed homes, schools, and infrastructure. Since then, approximately 7,000 to 9,000 Nepalis have relied on TPS to live and work in the U.S., many pursuing education and contributing to communities, especially in places like New York.

DHS Decision

DHS Secretary Kristi Noem, after reviewing Nepal’s conditions and consulting interagency partners, including the Department of State, determined that Nepal no longer meets TPS criteria. The rationale cites “notable improvements” in environmental disaster preparedness, response capacity, and reconstruction since the 2015 earthquake. A September 2024 disaster report noted 88% of damaged homes rebuilt, suggesting Nepal can now “adequately handle” the return of its nationals. This aligns with the Trump administration’s view of TPS as strictly temporary, reversing prior extensions under the Biden administration, which had prolonged Nepal’s TPS through June 24, 2025, following legal challenges and rescissions of earlier termination attempts (e Stopping in 2018, extended through litigation and policy shifts).

Timeline and History

• June 24, 2015: DHS designates Nepal for TPS for 18 months due to the April 25, 2015 earthquake.
• October 2016: TPS extended under President Obama, citing ongoing recovery needs.
• April 26, 2018: DHS, under Secretary Kirstjen Nielsen, attempts to terminate TPS for Nepal, effective June 24, 2019, claiming conditions improved.
• Litigation (Bhattarai v. Nielsen): A district court stays termination pending the Ramos v. Nielsen appeal, preserving TPS for Nepal and Honduras.
• June 13, 2023: Biden’s DHS rescinds prior termination, extends TPS from December 25, 2023, to June 24, 2025, with a 60-day re-registration period (October 24, 2023–December 23, 2023).
• June 20, 2024: USCIS extends TPS-related Employment Authorization Documents (EADs) for Nepal, El Salvador, Honduras, Nicaragua, and Sudan through March 9, 2025.
• June 5, 2025: DHS announces termination, effective August 5, 2025, with no further extension or re-registration period.

Merits of Termination

• Progress in Nepal: DHS highlights rebuilt homes (88% per 2024 reports), improved disaster preparedness, and a stabilizing economy as evidence Nepal can manage returnees.
• Temporary Intent: Reinforces TPS’s statutory purpose—temporary relief—not a long-term solution.
• Policy Alignment: Consistent with recent terminations for countries like Afghanistan (effective July 14, 2025) and Cameroon (August 4, 2025), reflecting a stricter DHS stance.
• Resource Shift: Frees U.S. resources for other immigration priorities.

Demerits of Termination

• Ongoing Challenges: Despite progress, Nepal faces incomplete recovery—rural areas lack infrastructure, jobs are scarce, and economic instability persists.
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• Education Disruption: Thousands of Nepali students in U.S. schools and colleges risk abandoning degrees, losing tuition and time.
• Work Loss: EADs expire August 5, 2025, halting income for education, living, and remittances to Nepal.
• Short Timeline: The 60-day wind-down (June 5 to August 5, 2025) leaves little time to secure new status or prepare for return.

Impact on Students

Over 7,000 Nepalis, including students, face uncertainty. Around 8,000 Nepali students were approved to study in the U.S. this fiscal year, but the TPS end, combined with suspended student visa interview appointments, complicates plans. Students lose work authorization, risking financial strain, and may face deportation if no alternative status is secured, disrupting academic and career goals.

Guidance for Affected Individuals

• F-1 Student Visa: Apply if enrolled or accepted at an SEVP-certified school. Requires proof of funds, academic intent, and plans to return to Nepal post-study.
• Asylum: If return risks persecution (e.g., based on race, religion, or politics), consult an attorney for eligibility.
• Other Options: Explore H-1B work visas or family-based green cards if eligible. Visit uscis.gov for the “Explore My Options” tool.
• Legal Counsel: Seek accredited help via ailalawyer.org or cliniclegal.org to avoid scams; act fast before August 5, 2025.
• Departure Prep: If no status is secured, use the CBP One app to facilitate return. Gather transcripts and records for Nepal or elsewhere.

Global Choice Education’s View

Global Choice Education recognizes the hardship this poses for Nepali students. We advocate for extended wind-down periods or permanent relief via bills like the ASPIRE TPS Act. Our services include:

• Visa Support: F-1 application help, school selection, and documentation.
• Career Advice: Transition plans, online learning, and Nepal-based opportunities.
• Connections: Links to legal aid and groups like Adhikaar (adhikaar.org). At Global Choice Education, we’re committed to your future. As our expert Riyam kafle, “Global Choice Education stands ready to guide Nepali students through this TPS termination, securing your education and path forward.”

Resources

• USCIS: uscis.gov/tps
• CBP One App: Download from app stores
• Legal Help: ailalawyer.org, cliniclegal.org
• Contact: Email [email protected] or at [email protected]