Not everyone is as fortunate to be born in a country that offers the safety and opportunities you find in the United States. Those born in other countries can sometimes face dire circumstances that cause them to flee. Fortunately, a humanitarian program exists to provide temporary protection to some of those who can’t safely return to their home country.
What conditions make someone eligible for Temporary Protected Status (TPS), and how long does the protected status last?
How is Temporary Protected Status determined?
The Secretary of DHS designates countries TPS based on conditions that temporarily prevent safe return, such as:
- Armed conflict, i.e., civil war
- Environmental disasters
- Epidemic
- Other extraordinary and temporary conditions
Countries currently on the TPS list include:
- Afghanistan
- Ukraine
- Ethiopia
- Haiti
- Syria
The duration of TPS designation varies and can be extended if unsafe conditions persist. For example, Yemen received its initial TPS designation in 2015 and has been extended to 2026.
To be eligible, a person needs to meet the following requirements:
1. Be a national of the designated TPS country, or if they are without nationality, the TPS country must be where they last resided
2. A continuous physical presence in the U.S. since the effective date of the TPS designation
3. Continuous residence in the U.S. since a date specified by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS)
While TPS is a temporary benefit and not a path to permanent residency or citizenship, it does offer benefits, such as:
- Protection from deportation
- Authorization to obtain an Employment Authorization Document, which allows them to work legally in the U.S.
- Permission to leave and re-enter the U.S. with prior approval
It’s also crucial to remember that TPS status must be periodically renewed to ensure the continuance of protection and benefits.
The United States has often played the role of protector for individuals fleeing catastrophic situations in their home countries. However, it’s important to remember that it is a temporary measure, and beneficiaries must stay informed about any changes in their status and explore other immigration options if necessary.