A major development came on November 19, 2025, when a federal judge in the Southern District of New York temporarily blocked the government from ending Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for Syria. TPS for Syria had been scheduled to end on November 21, 2025, but the ruling in Dahlia Doe v. Noem pauses that termination while the case continues.
Although a written court order is still pending, this verbal ruling means TPS for Syria remains active, preventing more than 6,100 Syrians from losing protection and being forced to return to dangerous conditions. The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) immediately stated it “vehemently disagrees” with the decision and intends to appeal.
What This Means for Employees and Employers
Individuals with Employment Authorization Documents (EADs) based on TPS Syria—categories A12 or C19—may continue working at this time. The challenge is that the duration of this protection is uncertain until the written order is issued. USCIS has acknowledged the ruling but emphasized its intent to challenge it.
Important Note on Automatic EAD Extensions
The October 29, 2025 DHS interim final rule, which ended automatic extensions for most employment authorization renewals, does not apply to TPS holders. TPS remains an exception under federal law and Federal Register notices. This means TPS-based EAD documentation can still receive extensions through official notices affecting TPS designations.
What Happens Next?
We are waiting for the judge to issue the written order, which will give clearer guidance on timelines and next steps. DHS’s announced intention to appeal means further legal movement is expected.
Our office will continue monitoring this closely. As soon as the written order is released—or if DHS issues additional guidance—we’ll share an update.