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U.S. Ends TPS for Somalia, Sets March 17 Departure Deadline

Officials cite improved conditions in Somalia, with legal challenges expected.

U.S. Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem speaks during a press conference, Thursday, Jan. 8, 2026, in New York. (AP Photo/Yuki Iwamura)
Secretary of Homeland Security Kristi Noem with the Border Patrol’s Gregory Bovino during a press conference at the Bishop Henry Whipple Federal Building on Jan. 7, 2026, in Minneapolis.
US Secretary of Homeland Security Kristi Noem speaks during a press conference to discuss ICE operations in New York City on January 8, 2026.
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Overview

  • USCIS and DHS confirmed Somali nationals with Temporary Protected Status must depart the United States by March 17, 2026.
  • An estimated 2,471 people currently hold Somali TPS and about 1,383 applications are pending, according to USCIS figures shared with reporters.
  • DHS amplified the decision in a social media post stating it is ending TPS for Somalis and warned, "Go back to your own country, or we'll send you back ourselves."
  • Minnesota remains the focal point, with roughly 500 to 600 Somali TPS holders there and ongoing ICE operations that have drawn lawsuits from Minneapolis, St. Paul and state officials.
  • The administration says Somalia no longer meets TPS criteria, though the State Department retains a Level 4 "Do Not Travel" advisory and observers anticipate court challenges to the termination.