Temporary Protected Status (TPS) is granted by the Secretary of the Department of Homeland Security (Secretary) to eligible foreign-born individuals who are unable to return home safely due to conditions or circumstances preventing their country from adequately handling the return.
When can the Secretary designate a country for TPS?
The Secretary can designate a country for TPS due to:
- Ongoing armed conflict (such as civil war),
- An environmental disaster (such as earthquake or hurricane), or an epidemic, or
- Other extraordinary and temporary conditions.
Who is eligible for TPS?
TPS can be granted to an individual who is a national of a designated country, has filed for status during a specified registration period, and who has been continuously physically present in the U.S. since a designated date.
What are the benefits of TPS?
During a designated period, TPS holders are:
- Not removable from the U.S. and not detainable by DHS on the basis of his or her immigration status,
- Eligible for an employment authorization document (EAD), and
- Eligible for travel authorization.
How many individuals are currently granted TPS?
The U.S. currently provides TPS to over 400,000 foreign nationals from the following countries, not including individuals from Afghanistan, Venezuela, and Ukraine as they were just recently designated.
When do TPS designations expire?
The Secretary can extend TPS after a review of country conditions. A decision concerning a 6, 12 or 18 month extension must be made at least 60-days before the TPS designation is set to expire. TPS extensions only apply to those who already have TPS status. Foreign nationals who arrive after the designated start date are only made eligible for status if TPS is re-designated for their country.
TPS application process can be quite complex and includes submitting multiple immigrations forms, evidence and either appropriate fees or a fee waiver request. Working with a team of legal experts will help make it a smooth process, as well as minimize a risk of being denied. At Root Law Group, we offer free consultations with our experienced immigration attorneys. Over the years, we have helped 2500+ clients and are proud to have a high 95% success rate on most cases. Call us today at (323) 456-7600 to schedule your free consultation!
Source: National Immigration Forum | Council on Foreign Relations
