Venezuela TPS Designation Extended: EADs Now Valid Through April 2, 2026

On March 31, 2025, a critical update from the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of California changed the trajectory for thousands of Venezuelan nationals living in the United States. The Court ordered a postponement of the previously scheduled termination of Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for Venezuela, thereby maintaining protection for TPS holders — and more importantly, extending the validity of certain Employment Authorization Documents (EADs) through April 2, 2026.

This ruling is not just a win for TPS beneficiaries but also a call to action for employers, HR teams, and anyone navigating employment verification and immigration compliance. Whether you’re a tech executive looking to retain valuable international talent or a healthcare leader ensuring continuity of care, understanding what this update means is vital.

Let’s break down what this change means for TPS holders, their employers, and how an experienced Immigration Attorney in New Jersey can help.

What is TPS and Why It Matters for Venezuelan Nationals?

Temporary Protected Status (TPS) is a humanitarian immigration program allowing nationals from certain countries facing extraordinary conditions—like armed conflict, environmental disasters, or other unsafe conditions—to live and work legally in the U.S. for a designated period.

For Venezuela, TPS was first granted in 2021 and re-designated in 2023, allowing eligible Venezuelan nationals to apply for work permits and protection from deportation. However, recent efforts to rescind these protections created legal uncertainty — until the March 31, 2025 court ruling.

Summary of the March 31, 2025 Court Decision

The U.S. District Court ordered a postponement of the termination of the 2023 TPS designation for Venezuela. This ruling came in response to legal challenges regarding how the TPS program was being unwound. Here’s what that means in practical terms:

• TPS for Venezuela remains in effect unless and until DHS obtains relief from this court order.

• EADs (Employment Authorization Documents) with expiration dates of:
  • September 10, 2025

  • April 2, 2025

  • March 10, 2024

  • September 9, 2022

• …are automatically extended through April 2, 2026.

This is a significant relief for both employees and employers who may have been scrambling to find solutions as the original expiration dates loomed closer.

What This Means for Employers

If you’re an employer of a Venezuelan TPS holder, here’s what you need to know:

1. EADs Are Automatically Extended

Employees with the above-mentioned expiration dates on their EAD cards are authorized to work through April 2, 2026 without needing new documentation—pending further litigation.

2. E-Verify Compliance

When creating a new E-Verify case after a new hire completes Form I-9, enter:

• The EAD document number from the employee’s existing EAD card.

• The extended expiration date: April 2, 2026.

This ensures compliance with employment eligibility verification requirements.

3. Reverification Required

You must reverify these employees using Form I-9 before April 3, 2026. This step is critical to maintaining legal hiring practices and avoiding fines.

The Role of an Immigration Attorney

Given the frequent policy changes and the impact of federal court rulings, both employees and employers need expert guidance. That’s where a qualified Immigration Attorney in New Jersey comes in.

Whether you’re:

• A CTO hiring H-1B or TPS employees,

• A hospital administrator hiring international medical staff, or

• A manufacturing manager onboarding foreign labor,

An immigration attorney can help you navigate the evolving legal landscape, file necessary forms, and ensure you remain compliant with USCIS and Department of Labor guidelines.

Why Work With a Visa Attorney in the USA?

Choosing a Visa Attorney in the USA isn’t just about paperwork — it’s about strategic legal planning.

Here’s how an experienced immigration attorney can support you:

For Employers:

• Determine eligibility of new hires under TPS or other visa categories.

• Avoid costly compliance errors during the Form I-9 or E-Verify process.

• Advise on workforce planning around visa renewals and status changes.

For Employees:

• Stay updated on TPS status and eligibility.

• Prepare and submit renewals or change of status applications on time.

• Respond to Requests for Evidence (RFEs) and other USCIS notices quickly and correctly.

How to Prepare Moving Forward

Although the current extension offers relief, it’s important to stay proactive as litigation continues. Here are steps both employers and employees can take today:

✅ Employers:

• Audit your current I-9 forms and verify which employees are impacted by this extension.

• Train HR staff on proper E-Verify procedures using the new expiration date.

• Consult with an Immigration Attorney about future implications if the TPS designation is eventually terminated.

✅ TPS Holders:

• Stay updated through the official USCIS TPS page.

• Keep copies of all documentation showing your eligibility for the EAD extension.

• Consult with a US Attorney specializing in immigration to explore permanent residency options or other visa statuses.

FAQ: Venezuela TPS Extension

❓ Can I keep working if my EAD has an old expiration date listed?

Yes, as long as your EAD card shows one of the extended expiration dates listed (e.g., Sept 10, 2025), it is now valid through April 2, 2026 under the court ruling.

❓ Do I need to file anything with USCIS for the extension?

No new application is needed at this time for the EAD extension, but you should monitor any future USCIS announcements and consult with a Visa Attorney in the USA.

❓ What happens after April 2, 2026?

If no new orders or extensions are granted, your employer must reverify your employment eligibility before April 3, 2026. You may also need to explore other visa or residency options.

Work With a Trusted Immigration Attorney in New Jersey

This update is a powerful reminder of how dynamic U.S. immigration policy can be — especially for TPS holders and the companies that depend on their contributions.

Working with a trusted Immigration Attorney in New Jersey is the best way to ensure you’re not just reacting to changes, but planning ahead strategically. Whether you’re an employer managing a diverse workforce or an individual seeking stability, legal guidance is key.

Need personalized help? Connect with a seasoned US Attorney or Visa Attorney in the USA today to protect your rights, your workforce, and your future.