TPS / Temporary Protected Status

About the TPS / Temporary Protected Status

Temporary Protected Status (TPS) is a humanitarian immigration designation established under the Immigration Act of 1990 (8 U.S.C. § 1254a) that protects nationals of designated countries from removal from the United States during periods of ongoing armed conflict, environmental disaster, or other extraordinary and temporary conditions. It is administered by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) through U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).

The Secretary of Homeland Security designates countries for TPS and establishes initial registration periods during which eligible nationals present in the United States may apply. Registrants receive two principal benefits: a stay of removal, protecting them from deportation for the duration of the designation, and an Employment Authorization Document (EAD) permitting lawful work in the United States. TPS holders may also apply for travel authorization.

TPS does not provide a path to lawful permanent residence or citizenship solely on the basis of TPS status, nor does it alter the holder's underlying immigration classification. Country designations are subject to periodic review; DHS may extend, re-designate, or terminate TPS for a given country based on conditions in that country at the time of review.

Key facts

• Humanitarian designation — applies to nationals of countries designated by the DHS Secretary based on statutory conditions
• Grants stay of removal (protection from deportation) and Employment Authorization Document (EAD) for the designation period
• TPS holders may apply for travel authorization (advance parole) permitting temporary departure and return to the United States
• Does not provide a path to lawful permanent residence or citizenship solely on the basis of TPS status
• Country designations subject to periodic review; DHS may extend, re-designate, or terminate based on country conditions
• Established by the Immigration Act of 1990 (8 U.S.C. § 1254a); administered by USCIS