What is Temporary Protected Status?

Temporary Protected Status (TPS) is a time-limited status given to eligible nationals of designated countries who are present in the United States

The status is afforded to nationals from countries affected by armed conflict, natural disaster, or other extraordinary and temporary conditions, and allows eligible individuals to live and work in the United States temporarily. The length of a TPS designation can be anywhere from 6 to 18 months and can be extended for many years.

Last month 3 countries received new designations or extensions to TPS. As of today March 31, 2021, the countries listed below have been designated for TPS:

1. Syria
2. Burma (Myanmar)
3. Venezuela
4. El Salvador
5. Haiti
6. Honduras
7. Nepal
8. Nicaragua
9. Somalia
10. South Sudan
11. Yemen

To determine eligibility for TPS:

• You must be a national of the designated country of have last habitually resided in the designated country.
• Promptly and properly file during the registration periods assigned for each country.
• Have been continuously physically present in the United States or have continuously maintained a residence in the United States.

Who does not qualify for TPS?

• Persons who have been convicted of any felony or two or more misdemeanors committed in the United States
• Persons found inadmissible under the immigration laws including non waivable criminal and security related grounds
• Those subject to any of the mandatory bars to asylum. These include, but are not limited to, participating in the persecution of another individual or engaging in or inciting terrorist activity
• Do not meet the continuous physical presence and continuous residence requirements described above
• Do not meet initial or late initial TPS registration requirements; or do not re-register for TPS without good cause.

There are strict registration periods in place. If you are a national of any of the countries above and you feel you may be eligible to apply for TPS. Please contact our office at 954-306-6921.