Press Release: Temporary Protected Status Extended for Venezuelan Immigrants
DENVER – In a significant move, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has announced an 18-month extension of Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for nearly one million immigrants in the U.S., including approximately 600,000 from Venezuela. This extension pushes the TPS expiration date to October 2026, providing much-needed relief to many who fled their home country amid ongoing political and economic crises.
Karelis, a Venezuelan immigrant and accountant for a nonprofit in Denver, expressed her relief and gratitude following the announcement. Speaking to Denver7, she emphasized the peace of mind the decision brings, as TPS offers protection without the rigorous requirements of asylum applications, which necessitate proof of imminent harm.
The extension comes at a critical time, as immigrants from Venezuela continue to face dire living conditions exacerbated by the regime of Nicolás Maduro. "We are fleeing Venezuela because we don’t have enough money to eat," Karelis explained, highlighting the urgent reasons behind her relocation to the U.S. in July 2023.
While TPS does not guarantee permanent residency, it protects immigrants from deportation back to countries facing warfare, natural disasters, or extraordinary circumstances. Some have voiced concerns about potential immigration policy changes with the impending return of President-elect Donald Trump, who has hinted at stricter immigration policies, including mass deportations. However, Karelis remains hopeful that current decisions will be respected.
Despite some negative attention surrounding undocumented immigrants, Karelis stressed the importance of recognizing the contributions of those who seek to build a better life. "Most of us come to work and contribute," she affirmed, urging the community to judge immigrants based on their intentions rather than the actions of a few.
This TPS extension marks a crucial lifeline for families and individuals desperately seeking stability and safety in the United States.