The U.S. Department of Homeland Security last week announced it will terminate Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for Afghanistan, a move that could jeopardize the future of thousands of Afghan nationals living in the United States, including many in Fremont’s large Afghan community.
The TPS designation, originally granted in 2022 following the Taliban’s return to power, according to DHS, is set to expire May 20 and officially end July 12. The decision affects more than 9,000 Afghans nationwide. Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem said conditions in Afghanistan have improved, justifying the termination.
Fremont is often called “Little Kabul” and is home to an estimated 25,000 to 30,000 Afghan immigrants. The city became a hub for Afghan refugees following the U.S. military withdrawal in 2021, according to the City of Fremont website. Local organizations and city officials mobilized quickly to provide aid, establishing resources like the Afghan Refugee Help Fund to assist with housing, education and healthcare.
Advocacy groups across the country are now urging the Trump administration and Congress to offer permanent protections, such as a pathway to residency, especially for those who aided U.S. forces or fled persecution.
Affected individuals are being encouraged to seek legal assistance immediately and connect with local organizations for support. Community leaders are also calling on allies to advocate for humane immigration policies that recognize the dangers many Afghans still face.
