Temporary Protected Status (TPS) is a humanitarian protection given to nationals of countries designated by the Secretary of Homeland Security because of armed conflict, environmental disaster, or other extraordinary conditions. TPS grants protection from removal, authorization to work, and the ability to apply for travel authorization, but does not by itself lead to a green card or citizenship.
Currently TPS-designated countries (verify the live list)
Designations and re-designation dates change frequently. As of recent DHS announcements, TPS designations include: Ukraine, Venezuela, Haiti, Syria, Nicaragua, Honduras, El Salvador, Somalia, Sudan, South Sudan, Yemen, Burma, Cameroon, Afghanistan, Ethiopia, and others. Always confirm the current list and registration window at uscis.gov/tps before filing — windows are short and missing them disqualifies you until the next designation.
Initial registration vs. re-registration
- Initial registration — first-time application during an open initial registration period. Requires I-821 + supporting evidence of nationality, identity, and continuous physical presence / residence.
- Re-registration — current TPS holders re-file I-821 every time DHS extends the designation. Re-registration windows are narrow (often 60 days). Missing them ends your TPS unless you can show "good cause" for late filing.
- Late initial — limited circumstances allow filing initial TPS after the original window if you qualify for a "late initial" filing reason.
What we prepare for TPS
- I-821 application package — initial registration or re-registration with evidence checklist.
- I-765 work permit — under category (c)(19) for initial TPS or (a)(12) for re-registration / pending TPS.
- I-131 advance parole — when you need to travel internationally and return.
- I-912 fee waiver — if you qualify based on income or means-tested benefits.
- Supporting evidence package — passport, birth certificate, country-conditions records, proof of continuous physical presence and continuous residence.
- Certified translations of foreign-language civil documents.