If you’re from a nation currently experiencing conditions preventing your safe return home, you may qualify for a temporary immigration status called Temporary Protected Status, commonly referred to as TPS.
To qualify for TPS, a person must come from a country that the Secretary of Homeland Secretary has designated as having conditions preventing the safe return home. A country, for example, may be experiencing armed conflict or a significant natural disaster that prevents the safe return of people to the country.
Currently, the Secretary of Homeland Security has designed 13 nations or parts of nations for TPS, including Ukraine, Nicaragua and Haiti.
Impact of TPS designation
Once a nation or part of a nation is designated for TPS, any national from that country may apply for TPS protection.
If granted, a TPS beneficiary is not subject to removal from the United States during the period of TPS designation. In other words, the beneficiary cannot be deported while under TPS status and cannot be detained based solely on their immigration status.
The TPS beneficiary is eligible for work authorization and may apply for any other immigration benefits while under TPS.
Applying for TPS
If you believe you may qualify for TPS, it is important to consult with an immigration attorney.
The application process for TPS can be complicated and there are strict deadlines. The applicant has the burden to show they meet a number of eligibility requirements. A knowledgeable attorney can assist you through the process.