The Trump administration announced a March 17 deadline to end Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for Somali nationals, prompting advocacy organizations to file a legal challenge arguing the action is motivated by race. The termination would affect approximately 1,080 Somali TPS recipients who would be required to self-deport or face immigration enforcement.
What changed
The administration stated that country conditions in Somalia have improved to the point that the nation no longer meets TPS requirements, and that allowing Somali nationals to remain is contrary to national interests. DHS Secretary Kristi Noem made the designation switch official in January 2026.
Immigrants and advocacy organizations, including African Communities Together and the Partnership for the Advancement of New Americans, filed suit in Massachusetts federal district court arguing the termination is motivated by race. The lawsuit names the Department of Homeland Security as a defendant.
Why it matters
Under the Immigration and Nationality Act of 1990, TPS beneficiaries are authorized to work and shielded from removal as long as their country is experiencing temporary conditions such as war or natural disaster. Somalia has held TPS status since 1991—for 35 years. Terminating the designation strips both work authorization and deportation protection from affected beneficiaries, who now face removal proceedings or voluntary departure.
For practitioners, the constitutional equal-protection challenge is critical. The suit was brought by African Communities Together and the Partnership for the Advancement of New Americans and lists the Department of Homeland Security as a defendant. The outcome of this litigation will determine whether the termination proceeds or is enjoined pending further proceedings.
Way forward
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If you represent Somali TPS clients: review their eligibility for alternative status (asylum, U visa, T visa, VAWA, cancellation of removal, etc.) immediately. The March 17 deadline has passed, but clients may still have options in defensive proceedings or affirmative applications.
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Monitor the federal court case: follow the motion practice and any preliminary injunction ruling in the Massachusetts federal district court. An injunction could extend the TPS period while litigation proceeds.
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Document current conditions: gather evidence on Somalia’s security situation and humanitarian conditions for any TPS extension arguments or affirmative asylum claims.
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Advise on stay-of-removal options: clients who self-deport lose all immigration benefits; those who remain may face removal proceedings where cancellation, asylum, or other defenses become relevant.
Disclaimer
Fola Editorial is a software publication, not a law firm, and this article is not legal advice. Immigration law is complex and fact-specific. Consult a licensed immigration attorney for advice on your or your client’s situation. Policy can change without notice. Verify all information against the official source linked above and current USCIS / DHS guidance.