Temporary Protected Status for Venezuelans officially ended this month, removing legal protection for thousands of families who built their lives in the United States.
The federal program, known as TPS, allowed Venezuelans to stay and work legally while their country faced political unrest and economic collapse. That protection is now gone.
Families in panic
Immigration attorney Javier Gonzalez says the change has left many in Houston afraid and confused about what comes next.
“Panic, panic. A lot of Venezuelans are coming looking for relief. A lot of them don’t have options at this point, and it’s heartbreaking because they’re just people trying to live and not have to return to a country they fled,” Gonzalez said.
Dispute over conditions in Venezuela
The Trump administration argues that conditions have improved, but Gonzalez disagrees.
“No, so it’s absolutely not better. No one that’s from Venezuela that came here fleeing the country would tell you that it has gotten better. I don’t see any real change that’s allowing Venezuelans to safely return to their home country and to live a safe life once they’re back,” he said.
Fears of persecution
Gonzalez says Venezuelans who once protested against the government face serious risks if deported.
“I’ve seen many cases where people who protested go back and get arrested right away. Some disappear. It’s a huge risk,” he said.
What happens next
Without TPS, Venezuelans who have lived legally in Houston for years are now out of status. Many will lose work permits and driver’s licenses and could be detained by immigration officers.
“If you’re afraid of being deported, you need to go talk to an immigration attorney and look for relief. Otherwise, you’re at risk of being detained at any time,” Gonzalez said.
Gonzalez says some families still have time to apply for asylum or other humanitarian protection but warns the process is complex and time is limited.
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