Temporary Protected Status (TPS) lets people from certain countries stay in the U.S. when their home country faces a crisis. Here’s what it means, who qualifies, and how it works.

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What Is TPS?

Temporary Protected Status (TPS) is a short-term protection the U.S. gives to people from countries that are unsafe due to war, disasters, or major crises. It allows them to stay legally, work, and sometimes travel while conditions at home improve.

• Stay in the U.S. without being deported
• Get a work permit (Employment Authorization Document)
• Request permission to travel (Advance Parole)

Note: TPS does not give you a green card or U.S. citizenship. It’s a temporary status for protection, not permanent residence.

Frequently Asked Questions (TPS Basics)

1. Can I apply for TPS if I just arrived in the U.S.?
   No. You must have already been in the U.S. since your country’s set TPS start date.
2. Does TPS let me get a Social Security number?
   Yes, if you have an approved work permit (EAD) through TPS.
3. Can I travel to my home country with TPS?
   Only if you apply for and receive Advance Parole first. Traveling without it may cause you to lose TPS.
4. Will TPS stop ICE from deporting me?
   Yes, while your TPS is valid and active.
5. Is TPS the same as asylum?
   No. Asylum is an individual protection path; TPS is temporary and based on your country’s designation.

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Why Does the U.S. Offer TPS?

The U.S. offers TPS for humanitarian reasons — when it’s unsafe for people to return home. Countries may get TPS because of:

• Armed conflict or civil war
• Natural disasters like earthquakes or hurricanes
• Severe political instability or other extraordinary conditions

Frequently Asked Questions (Why TPS Exists)

1. Who decides which countries get TPS?
   The U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS).
2. Can any country get TPS?
   Only if the situation meets the law’s requirements — not every crisis qualifies.
3. How long does it take to designate a country?
   It varies. DHS reviews the facts and publishes an official notice.
4. Why not use asylum instead?
   TPS is faster and applies to a group; asylum is a case-by-case process.
5. Do countries ever lose TPS?
   Yes. If conditions improve, DHS can end the designation.

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Who Qualifies for TPS?

Each country’s TPS rules can differ, but you generally must meet these conditions:

Requirement	What It Means
From a designated country	You are a national of a country on the TPS list (or last habitually lived there if stateless).
Physically present in the U.S.	You have been in the U.S. since your country’s set “effective date.”
Continuous residence	You have lived in the U.S. since the date required for your country’s TPS.
Criminal history	Serious crimes (a felony) or two or more misdemeanors can make you ineligible.
Timely application	You file during the registration window (late filing may be allowed in limited cases).

Frequently Asked Questions (Eligibility)

1. How do I know if my country has TPS?
   Check the current list on the USCIS TPS page.
2. What if I have DACA or another status?
   You can sometimes have TPS alongside another status.
3. Can I apply if I overstayed my visa?
   Yes, if you meet all TPS rules.
4. What if I missed the deadline?
   You may qualify for late initial registration under certain exceptions.
5. Will a traffic ticket hurt my case?
   Usually not, but serious or repeated offenses can be a problem.

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What Benefits Come With TPS?

People approved for TPS get certain rights and protections:

• Protection from deportation
• Work authorization (EAD)
• Permission to travel if granted Advance Parole

Frequently Asked Questions (Benefits)

1. Can I work anywhere with my TPS EAD?
   Yes, you may work for any U.S. employer while your EAD is valid.
2. Can I get a driver’s license?
   In most states, yes — if you have a valid EAD.
3. What if my employer asks to re-verify my EAD?
   Show your current EAD and follow I-9 rules. Re-register TPS early to avoid gaps.
4. Does TPS give access to federal benefits?
   Usually no. Some state or local programs may be available.
5. Can I use TPS to sponsor my family?
   No. TPS does not provide family sponsorship.

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How Long Does TPS Last?

TPS lasts for limited periods (often 6–18 months). Before it ends, the U.S. reviews the country’s situation to decide whether to extend or end it. If TPS ends and you have no other legal status, protection stops.

Frequently Asked Questions (Duration & Renewal)

1. How will I know if TPS for my country is extended?
   Watch USCIS updates and BorderWire’s policy page.
2. Do I need to re-apply each time?
   Yes. You must re-register during each new window.
3. Can I apply for another visa while on TPS?
   Sometimes, yes — get legal advice first.
4. What happens if TPS ends?
   You may lose status unless you have another approved path.
5. Can TPS become permanent?
   No. Only Congress could create a permanent path.

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What To Do If You Think You Qualify

1. Check if your country is designated for TPS.
2. Confirm your presence and residence dates.
3. Gather proof of identity, nationality, and U.S. residence.
4. File Form I-821 (and Form I-765 if you want a work permit).
5. Re-register every time your country’s TPS is renewed.

Frequently Asked Questions (Application Process)

1. Can I apply online?
   Yes, most applicants can file online at USCIS.
2. How much does it cost?
   Fees vary by age and forms filed; expect a few hundred dollars.
3. Can I get a fee waiver?
   Yes, if you qualify based on financial need.
4. How long does it take?
   Processing times vary but often take a few months.
5. Where do I send a paper application?
   Check USCIS Form I-821 mailing instructions for your state.

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Related Guides on BorderWire

• What Is DACA and Who Qualifies?
• Advance Parole Guide
• Know Your Rights
• Border Policy Updates

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Why This Matters

• Humanitarian protection: TPS helps keep people safe when returning home isn’t possible.
• Community stability: Many TPS holders have families, homes, and jobs in the U.S.
• Legal clarity: Understanding TPS prevents mistakes and missed deadlines.

What’s Next

Watch for official updates from USCIS. If your country’s TPS is extended, re-register on time. If TPS ends, talk with a trusted legal helper to see if you qualify for another path.

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Last updated: October 11, 2025

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