Ethiopia TPS Extended by U.S. Court: Massachusetts Judge Postpones Termination, Beneficiaries Keep Work Authorization During Litigation

Ethiopia TPS extended by U.S. court: Massachusetts judge postpones termination, beneficiaries keep work authorization.

Boston, April 9, 2026 — A federal judge in Massachusetts has granted a significant postponement of the termination of Ethiopia’s Temporary Protected Status (TPS) designation, allowing thousands of Ethiopian nationals in the United States to retain their legal protections and work authorization while legal challenges continue.

U.S. District Judge Brian E. Murphy issued the order yesterday in the case African Communities Together et al. v. Noem et al. (1:26-cv-10278), ruling that the plaintiffs are likely to succeed on the merits of their claims. The decision effectively pauses the Trump administration’s plan to end Ethiopia’s TPS, which had been scheduled to conclude after a short transition period.

Court’s Key Findings

In his ruling, Judge Murphy highlighted two major issues with the Department of Homeland Security’s decision to terminate Ethiopia’s TPS:

• The Secretary failed to properly consult with appropriate government agencies as required by the TPS statute.

• Evidence suggests the termination decision was “preordained,” with the stated reasons appearing pretextual.

As a result, the court has extended the postponement, preserving the status quo. Ethiopian TPS beneficiaries will continue to enjoy full TPS protections, including employment authorization documents (EADs), while the litigation proceeds.

Background of Ethiopia TPS

Ethiopia was designated for TPS in December 2022 due to ongoing armed conflict and humanitarian concerns. The designation was extended in April 2024 for 18 months, covering the period from June 13, 2024, through December 12, 2025.

In December 2025, DHS announced it would not extend the designation further, providing only a 60-day transition period until February 13, 2026. A federal court in Massachusetts issued a temporary stay on January 30, 2026, and yesterday’s order continues that relief during the ongoing lawsuit.

What This Means for Ethiopian TPS Holders

• Work Authorization: Current EADs remain valid and will be extended as needed during the litigation.

• Travel: TPS holders can continue to request advance parole for international travel.

• Protections: Deportation remains suspended for those with active TPS.

• Uncertainty: The extension is temporary and depends on the final outcome of the court case. Beneficiaries are encouraged to consult immigration attorneys for personalized advice.

This ruling provides immediate relief to thousands of Ethiopian nationals living and working in the United States, many of whom have built lives, families, and careers while awaiting resolution of their immigration status.

Broader Context

The decision is part of a series of court challenges against the current administration’s efforts to terminate several TPS designations. Similar lawsuits are ongoing for other countries, and legal experts expect more litigation as the government moves forward with its immigration enforcement priorities.

Advocacy groups have praised the ruling as an important check on executive power and a recognition of the serious humanitarian situation still facing many regions in Ethiopia.

For the latest U.S. TPS updates, Ethiopia TPS news, EAD extension guidance, and 2026 immigration court developments, explore our complete collection here: USA Visa & Immigration Updates

Judge Murphy’s decision to postpone the termination of Ethiopia’s TPS provides critical stability for affected communities while the courts examine the legality of the government’s actions. As litigation continues, TPS holders are advised to stay informed and maintain compliance with all immigration requirements.