US Keeps Temporary Protected Status for Sudanese and Ukrainians Running

The US Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has confirmed that Temporary Protected Status (TPS) and the related work authorisation for nationals of Sudan and Ukraine remain in effect, even though the programmes were due to expire on 19 October 2026. DHS said a formal decision on the two programmes will be announced in due course.

Key facts

• Who is affected: nationals of Sudan and Ukraine holding Temporary Protected Status in the United States
• What was due to happen: TPS was set to expire on 19 October 2026
• What applies now: TPS protections and work authorisation remain in effect
• What is pending: a formal decision on the programmes, with no date announced
• Where to check status: the US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) TPS pages for Ukraine and Sudan

What is changing?

Nothing changes immediately for affected travellers and residents. DHS announced that, for now, TPS protections and work authorisation continue unchanged while the department works towards a formal decision on both country programmes. No new end date, extension length or application procedure has been announced.

Who is affected?

The announcement covers nationals of Sudan and Ukraine who hold Temporary Protected Status in the United States. TPS is a humanitarian status that allows eligible nationals of designated countries to remain and, where granted, to work in the country. The source does not state how many people hold the status in either programme.

How is status confirmed?

DHS said employers can rely on the USCIS TPS pages for Ukraine and Sudan when reverifying an employee's work authorisation on the I-9 form. The source does not describe any other documentation or process for holders of the status.

What this means for travellers

Sudanese and Ukrainian nationals in the United States under TPS do not need to take action based on the 19 October 2026 expiry date, as protections and work authorisation remain in place. Anyone checking their status or an employer verifying work authorisation should consult the USCIS TPS pages for the relevant country.

No date has been given for the formal decision on the future of the two programmes. DHS said it will be announced in due course.