The U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has officially announced a six-month extension of Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for South Sudan, now valid through November 3, 2025. The announcement, to be published in the Federal Register on May 6, 2025, provides critical guidance for South Sudanese nationals currently living and working in the United States.
This extension applies to TPS beneficiaries whose status was previously set to expire on May 4, 2025, and also includes an automatic extension of related Employment Authorization Documents (EADs). Specifically, EADs with category codes A12 or C19 that show an expiration date of May 3, 2025 or November 3, 2023 are now considered valid through November 3, 2025.
Why the Extension Was Issued
According to DHS, this extension was necessary because the Secretary of Homeland Security was unable to make a final decision on redesignation by the March 4, 2025 deadline. The notice further encourages TPS beneficiaries to prepare for repatriation to South Sudan in the event that the country’s designation is not renewed again and if individuals do not qualify for another lawful status in the United States.
EAD Validity and Automatic Extensions
For TPS beneficiaries concerned about employment authorization, this notice provides much-needed clarity. In addition to the automatic EAD extension to November 3, 2025, individuals may also benefit from a 540-day automatic extension of their EAD under 8 C.F.R. § 274a.13(d). However, it’s essential to understand that the 540-day period begins from the “Card Expires” date printed on the EAD — not from the federal notice date or the TPS announcement.
Beneficiaries are advised to keep copies of the Federal Register notice with their expired EADs to present to employers or for I-9 employment verification purposes.
For further information and tools to calculate your individual EAD extension period, USCIS offers an EAD Extension Calculator.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: What happens if my EAD is expiring on May 3, 2025?
If your EAD lists a “Card Expires” date of May 3, 2025 and includes category codes A12 or C19, it is automatically extended through November 3, 2025. No new card is needed at this time to maintain employment eligibility.
Q2: What is the 540-day automatic extension and how does it apply?
If you have a pending renewal application, you may be eligible for a 540-day automatic extension under federal regulations. This extension begins from the expiration date printed on your current EAD — not from any subsequent DHS announcements.
Q3: Will I receive a new EAD card during this extension?
Not necessarily. The Federal Register notice serves as proof of extension. You should keep a copy of it along with your current EAD for employment and verification purposes.
Q4: What if South Sudan’s TPS is not extended again after November 2025?
DHS has urged beneficiaries to prepare for the possibility of return if no further extension is granted and if there is no other lawful basis for remaining in the U.S. This may include exploring other visa categories or adjustment of status options.
Q5: Can I apply for a different immigration benefit while on TPS?
Yes, individuals with TPS may be eligible for other immigration benefits such as asylum, family-based petitions, or employment-based visas. Consult with a qualified immigration attorney to explore your options.
For personalized legal advice regarding your TPS or EAD status, please contact Ahluwalia Law Offices. Our attorneys are experienced in guiding foreign nationals through every step of their immigration journey.
