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Introduction
Temporary Protected Status (TPS) is a critical humanitarian program designed to protect individuals from specific countries where returning is unsafe. Established under the Immigration Act of 1990, TPS offers eligible individuals a temporary stay in the United States and protection from deportation. Over time, the authority to designate countries for TPS shifted from the Attorney General to the Secretary of Homeland Security.
In this blog, we’ll explore the foundation of TPS, the criteria for designation, the countries currently designated, who qualifies, and how to apply.
What is TPS?
TPS is a temporary immigration status provided to nationals of designated countries experiencing conditions that temporarily prevent their safe return. During a designated period, individuals who are TPS beneficiaries or who are found eligible for TPS upon initial review of their cases are not removable from the United States; they are protected from being detained by DHS on immigration grounds; they can obtain an employment authorization document (EAD); and may ay be granted travel authorization.
The Secretary may designate a country for TPS due to the following temporary conditions in the country:
Ongoing armed conflict (such as civil war);
Environmental disaster or an epidemic;
Other extraordinary and temporary conditions.
Countries Currently Designated for TPS
As of now, the following countries are designated for TPS, with validity through the listed expiration dates:
Country | Date of Potential Expiration |
Afghanistan | Valid through May 20, 2025 |
Burma (Myanmar) | Extended until November 25, 2025 |
Cameroon | Extended until June 7, 2025 |
El Salvador | Extended until March 9, 2025 |
Ethiopia | Extended until December 12, 2025 |
Haiti | Extended until February 3, 2026 |
Honduras | Extended until July 5, 2025 |
Lebanon | Valid through April 16, 2026 |
Nepal | Extended until June 24, 2025 |
Nicaragua | Extended until July 5, 2025 |
Somalia | Extended until March 17, 2026 |
South Sudan | Extended until May 3, 2025 |
Sudan | Extended until April 19, 2025 |
Syria | Extended until September 30, 2025 |
Ukraine | Valid through April 19, 2025 |
Venezuela | Extended until September 10, 2025 |
Yemen | Extended until March 3, 2026 |
Who Qualifies for TPS
To qualify for Temporary Protected Status (TPS), you must meet the following criteria:
Be a national of a country designated for TPS or be stateless but last habitually resided in a designated country.
Apply during the initial registration or re-registration period, or qualify for late initial filing during any extension of your country’s TPS designation.
Be continuously physically present in the United States since the most recent designation date for your country.
Have continuously resided in the United States since the specified date for your country.
Must not present a risk to the United States related to criminal grounds, malicious conduct, or national security threat.
How to Apply for TPS
Applying for TPS involves the following steps:
File Form I-821Complete Form I-821, Application for Temporary Protected Status. This form can be filed online or by mail, depending on your country's specific instructions.
Gather Required EvidenceProvide supporting documents such as:
Proof of Identity and Nationality: Passport copy, birth certificate, or national ID.
Proof of Date of Entry: I-94 Arrival/Departure Record or other travel documents.
Proof of Continuous Residence: Lease agreements, utility bills, or employment records.
Apply for Employment Authorization (optional): File Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization, to obtain a work permit during your TPS status.
Filing Fees: The filing fee for initial TPS applications is $50, but other fees may apply. There is no fee for re-registring for TPS.:
Biometric Fee: $30 for applicants 14 years or older.
EAD Fee: $520 ($470 Online filing -- if applying for work authorization).
Advance Parole (optional): TPS holders may apply for advance parole (travel authorization) only after Form I-821 approval.
Conclusion
TPS serves as a vital program for individuals facing temporary dangers in their home countries. While TPS does not provide permanent residency or other immigration benefits, it offers safety, security, and an opportunity to work and live in the U.S. during uncertain times.
If you or someone you know have any questions or need assistance with filing your TPS application, please feel free to seek guidance by scheduling a consultation with us. Let us be your guide through immigration.
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