Update on Termination of Temporary Protected Status for South Sudan

Key Point  

• TPS for South Sudan remains in place for now due to a federal court order that temporarily halts the government’s planned termination and extends certain EADs through July 1, 2026. 

Temporary Protected Status for South Sudan 

The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) previously announced the termination of Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for South Sudan, following a review of country conditions and interagency consultation. The termination was scheduled to take effect on January 5, 2026, as published in the Federal Register. 

However, on December 30, 2025, the U.S. District Court for the District of Massachusetts issued an order temporarily staying the termination pending the outcome of African Communities Together et al. v. Noem et al. litigation. As a result, TPS for South Sudan and related benefits remain in place until further notice. 

Employment Authorization Documents (EADs)

Under the court order, TPS‑related EADs for South Sudan with the following expiration dates remain valid:

• November 3, 2023
• May 3, 2025
• November 3, 2025

Form I‑9 and E‑Verify Guidance

• Section 1: Employees may enter “as per court order” as the expiration date.
• Section 2: Employers should record July 1, 2026, as the expiration date and note the court‑ordered extension.
• Employers may attach this alert and the USCIS TPS South Sudan page to the Form I‑9.
• For E‑Verify, use the July 1, 2026, date from the Form I‑9.

USCIS may issue additional updates, and employers should monitor official sources.

Employer Considerations

• TPS for South Sudan remains active while the stay is in effect.
• Covered EADs remain valid for I‑9 and E‑Verify purposes.
• Employers should maintain consistent reverification practices and retain documentation supporting the extension.
• If TPS is ultimately terminated, individuals may need alternative immigration options.

Additional Information

Employers should continue checking the USCIS TPS South Sudan page for updates. USCIS also offers GovDelivery subscriptions for Form I‑9 and E‑Verify notices.

Envoy Global will provide further updates as new information becomes available.

Don’t Miss an Update

At Envoy Global, we combine smart, friendly legal teams with smart, friendly technology to facilitate immigration for companies and the global talent they depend on. Our holistic, proactive immigration services are built for accuracy and efficiency, always putting people first.

Reach out today to learn how we can support your company’s immigration needs.