What does TPS mean?

What does TPS mean?

If you believe you are eligible for TPS or have any questions about immigration to the US, call us today at (619) 746-8879

TPS or Temporary Protected Status is offered to citizens of countries that face armed conflicts or natural disasters. Generally, it covers countries that the immigrant considers insecure about returning to. Nonetheless, the United States must recognize the country as eligible for the status.

Not every immigrant can receive TPS because the requirements are even more specific than other immigration benefits. However, eligible people can have employment benefits for a temporary period of time, subject to TPS renewal.

TPS is different from asylum since it refers to someone running from their country of origin in fear of persecution. Temporary Protected Status is based less on personal fear and more on an insecure living environment.

What happens if you are eligible for TPS?

If, after submitting your request, you are considered eligible for TPS, you can:

• Request an employment authorization document;
• Receive protection against deportation;
• Request travel authorization;
• Not be detained by ICE because of your migratory status.

It is essential to consider that TPS does not lead to a permanent residency, and it does not affect an asylum request and vice versa.

How long does TPS last?

TPS can be granted for six, 12, or 18 months and it is given to the country, not to each individual. They can stay in the US for as long as they are part of the list.

At least 60 days before the TPS expires, the National Security Secretary will revise the situation to decide if the country’s status should be extended or not. If no action is taken, the status extends automatically for six more months.

Requirements for TPS eligibility

Requirements for TPS eligibility are specific to each country; however, there are general things considered:

1. You must be a citizen of one of the countries eligible for TPS or a person without a nationality that lived in one of the designed countries last;
2. You must request TPS during the initial registry or reinscription, which is different for each country;
3. You must have lived continuously in the US since the date indicated for your country.

You can be denied TPS if:

1. You have been convicted for a major felony or two or more misdemeanors in the US;
2. You are inadmissible for any reason according to the Immigration and Nationality Act, section 212(a);
3. If you have committed acts related to terrorism;
4. You cannot prove continuous residence or presence.

What countries are currently eligible for TPS?

1. Birmania (Myanmar)

2. El Salvador

3. Haiti

4. Honduras

5. Nepal

6. Nicaragua

7. Somalia

8. Sudan

9. South Sudan

10. Siria

11. Venezuela

12. Yemen

How to request TPS

The first step to request TPS is to file the initial registry, Form I-821, which can be sent online or post mail. You can also request a work permit simultaneously with Form I-765, although you can do it later too.

As part of your request, you will also need to submit:

• A valid ID that shows you are a citizen of the designed country by TPS, such as a passport, birth certificate, or national ID with photograph;
• Proof of entry to the country;
• Evidence of continuous residence.

Requesting TPS has costs for the initial registry but not for renewals. It depends on the person’s age, the forms they send, and other requirements.

TPS is only valid while your country is on the list. Therefore, we advise you to contact an immigration attorney in San Diego to guide you through the process and evaluate other options for you in the future. Contact Kannan Law today for assistance.