On August 1, 2016, the USCIS released notification Secretary of Homeland Security, Jeh Johnson, has extended the temporary protection status for Syria from October 1, 2016, through March 31, 2016. This designation allows for current eligible Syrian nationals to register for TPS status. Syrian citizens that are currently registered for TPS must re-register between August 1 – September 30.
This extension also allows for Syrian nationals designated under TPS to apply for an employment authorization document. The employment authorization document allows Syrian nationals to work while they are in the US.
Those who do not have nationality but last resided in Syria may also apply for temporary protected status. You must apply during the 180-day initial registration period that begins August 1, 2016, through Jan 30, 2017.
If you are unable to pay the filing fees, you may request the USCIS waive fees by filing a Form I-912 Request for Fee Waiver.
What Is TPS?
When a foreign country is designated for TPS, the reasons for this practice is because the conditions of that country are either temporarily unsafe or otherwise unfit. Some examples of reasons the US may declare a particular country is under TPS are:
- Civil war or another armed conflict
- Natural disaster or epidemic
- Other temporarily extraordinary conditions
When country’s nationals are designated as TPS, they cannot be removed from the United States and may be granted travel authorization.
One thing to note is, TPS designation does not allow any other immigration benefit. If you are currently here under a TPS designation but you are interested in other immigration options, our Cleveland immigration attorney can help you decide which is the best choice for you. Call (888) 491-8770 today to schedule your appointment.
