How Temporary Protected Status in US Immigration Works

1.75 minute read

"The United States offers asylum to those seeking protection from violence in their home countries. The US offers the Temporary Protected Status (TPS) to foreign nationals escaping ongoing armed conflicts, natural disasters, and other severe situations."

Written by My Visa Source Team
Published on: May 5, 2021

The United States offers asylum to those seeking protection from violence in their home countries. The US offers the Temporary Protected Status (TPS) to foreign nationals escaping ongoing armed conflicts, natural disasters, and other severe situations.

Foreign nationals with TPS will be allowed to stay in the US for a temporary period until conditions in their home country improve. Applicants will be required to meet certain eligibility requirements and may also be able to gain employment authorization with nonimmigrant work visas if they are successful.

Who is Eligible for Temporary Protected Status in the US?

Only citizens of the following designated countries are eligible to apply for TPS:

Syria
Sudan
South Sudan
Somalia
Nicaragua
Nepal
Honduras
Haiti
El Salvador
Yemen

In addition to being citizens of the above-mentioned countries, you must also meet certain additional criteria according to the US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS):

File for TPS during the initial registration process or re-registration period or meet the requirements for late initial registration during any extension of your country’s TPS designation
Be physically present in the US since the designation of your country
Not be convicted of a felony or more than 2 misdemeanors during your stay in the US
Not be subjected to any bars to an asylum due to terrorist activities or human and international rights violation

How to Apply for Temporary Protected Status in the US?

It is generally advised to seek out the guidance of an immigration lawyer while applying for TPS. The process is as follows:

File a Petition:

You must file the appropriate paperwork for TPS and send it to the address as indicated by your country. Be mindful to include the filing fee or the request for the fee waiver.

USCIS Review:

Once the USCIS receives your application, it will be reviewed. If you meet the eligibility requirements, you will be issued a notice. You will be required to provide contact and biometric information to the USCIS.

Visit an Application Support Center:

Attend an appointment at the application support center to provide proof of your nationality and identity. Once this is completed, no more evidence is required. A final decision will be made to either approve or deny your application.