Temporary Protected Status (TPS) is a humanitarian immigration benefit offered by the U.S. government to individuals from countries that are facing extraordinary and temporary conditions. These conditions may include armed conflict, environmental disasters, or other severe and unsafe circumstances that make it dangerous for individuals to return to their home country.



When a country is designated for TPS, eligible nationals (and certain individuals without nationality who last habitually resided in that country) may remain in the United States temporarily and apply for protections and work authorization.

Who Qualifies for TPS?

To qualify for TPS, applicants must meet several specific criteria:

• Nationality: You must be a national of a country that has been designated for TPS by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS), or be a person without nationality who last resided in that country.
• Continuous Presence: You must have continuously resided in the United States since the date specified by DHS for your country’s designation.
• Registration Deadline: You must apply during the initial registration or re-registration period, unless you meet the requirements for late initial filing.
• No Serious Criminal Record: You must not have been convicted of any felony or two or more misdemeanors in the U.S., and you must not pose a threat to national security.
• No Bars to Asylum: Individuals barred from asylum, such as those involved in terrorism or persecution of others, are also ineligible for TPS.

Each country designated for TPS has its own registration deadlines and required documentation, which can make navigating the process difficult without legal guidance.

What Protections and Benefits Does TPS Provide?

TPS offers several critical protections for eligible individuals, including:

• Protection from Deportation: TPS holders cannot be removed from the United States during the designated period.
• Work Authorization: Individuals granted TPS can apply for an Employment Authorization Document (EAD), allowing them to work legally in the U.S.
• Travel Authorization: TPS beneficiaries can apply for permission to travel outside the United States and return lawfully.

It’s important to note that TPS is a temporary benefit and does not lead directly to lawful permanent resident status (green card) or U.S. citizenship. However, TPS holders may still be eligible for other immigration benefits and should consult with an attorney about long-term options.

How the Law Offices of Joseph Urso Can Help

At the Law Offices of Joseph Urso, we assist immigrants seeking TPS and other forms of humanitarian protection. We guide clients through every step of the application process, ensuring eligibility is established, documents are properly filed, and deadlines are met.

We understand the challenges immigrants face and are committed to providing reliable legal support for those pursuing safety and stability in the United States.