Temporary Protected Status (TPS) is a legal status designed to protect non-citizens from specific countries who live in the U.S. Despite their lack of a visa, people with this status are temporarily free from the risk of deportation.
The application is the same for all eligible countries, but the protections have some key limitations that a dedicated immigration attorney could explain in more detail. The best way to determine if you qualify is to reach out to a Newark temporary protected status lawyer from our firm today.
Several factors must be considered when determining eligibility for TPS protections. These limitations are strictly enforced, making it vital to seek help from a Newark temporary protected status attorney.
To qualify, TPS applicants must be residents of specific countries. Alternatively, they can be a stateless person who last lived in one of the qualifying nations. Nations are regularly placed on and removed from this list. Some of the current options include:
In addition to citizenship requirements, there are a few other considerations. Applicants must submit their paperwork during an open registration window designated by United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). There are limited exceptions that allow for late filing.
Applicants must also have a clean criminal record. Finally, there are rules related to remaining in the United States during this process. A person will generally have to be physically present in the country where TPS status was awarded.
There are different reasons why the federal government might establish TPS protections in a certain country, including:
One of the most common reasons for the United States to designate this status is when armed conflict breaks out overseas. This might involve international hostilities or civil war. Other examples might involve the threat of terrorist organizations facing unstable governments.
The other common cause of TPS status involves natural disasters. Any time a hurricane or tsunami wreaks havoc in a country, there is the possibility that the federal government will allow its citizens to remain in the U.S. for an extended period.
A seasoned attorney in Newark could help individuals understand their eligibility for TPS and guide them through the application process.
Applying for TPS status in Newark starts with filing Form I-821, which can only be done online rather than in person. The timeline for filing depends on a person’s country of origin. For first-time filers, an initial registration must be completed before applying. The time limit to submit this document varies from one country to another.
In addition to the form, other supporting documents must be supplied. These include proof of identity, evidence of the date the applicant arrived in the U.S., and any relevant immigration or criminal court record.
If you are living in the U.S. but come from a country facing violence or strife, you might be entitled to stay under the TPS program. However, not every application will be accepted—especially if mistakes are made along the way. Let a Newark temporary protected status lawyer advise you of your options. Contact our firm today.
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