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Temporary Protected Status (TPS)

Temporary Protected Status (TPS) is a temporary immigration status granted to nationals of certain countries that are experiencing problems that…

Temporary Protected Status (TPS) is a temporary immigration status granted to nationals of certain countries that are experiencing problems that make it difficult or unsafe for their nationals to be deported back to those countries. TPS has been a lifeline to hundreds of thousands of individuals already in the U.S. when problems in their home country make their departure or deportation untenable.

It is important to keep in mind that TPS is only a temporary benefit that does not lead to lawful permanent resident status or grant any other immigration status to holders. However, TPS holders can get work permission, and they are protected from deportation to their home country for a designated period. Sometimes the U.S. government extends the period of designation for certain countries, depending on conditions in that country. Because of this, the length of TPS will vary based on the country, and whether or not the conditions that led to the designation has improved or been resolved.

Who is eligible for TPS?

The USCIS may grant TPS to eligible nationals of certain countries (or parts of countries).

  • The applicant must already be in the U.S. in order to apply for TPS, and they must have continuous physical presence and continuous residence in the U.S.
  • The applicant must have been in the U.S. at the time when the U.S. government made the TPS designation for their country
  • An individual without nationality may also be eligible for TPS if they had last lived in the designated country

President Biden has moved to expand TPS protections, including for Afghans and Ukrainians. His administration has also proposed legislation to provide TPS holders with a pathway to permanent resident status and U.S. citizenship. Opponents of TPS have been challenging the designations, with some proposing to end it for all countries, and it is still the subject of ongoing political debate.

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