“TPS” stands for Temporary Protected Status, and it is a designation provided by the United States government to individuals from certain countries who are unable to return to their home countries due to unsafe or extraordinary conditions, such as armed conflict, natural disasters, or other temporary but severe situations. TPS allows eligible individuals to live and work in the United States for a limited period.
To qualify for TPS, individuals must meet specific criteria, including:
- Being a national of a country designated for TPS.
- Having been continuously physically present in the United States since the TPS designation date.
- Having continuously resided in the United States since the most recent TPS designation date for the specific country.
- Not having certain disqualifying criminal convictions.
- Meeting other eligibility requirements outlined by U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).
The U.S. government periodically reviews and designates countries for TPS based on the conditions in those countries. TPS status is temporary and subject to periodic extensions, so individuals with TPS must reapply and seek extensions to remain legally in the United States.
It’s important to note that TPS is a humanitarian program designed to protect individuals who are unable to return to their home countries due to temporary crises. The eligibility criteria and designated countries can change, so individuals seeking TPS should consult with immigration authorities or legal experts to understand their specific situation.
If you want more information about TPS, contact the attorneys Zambrano & Ruiz at 770-769-5820.
Attorney Shirley Zambrano
Founding Partner
