Temporary Protected Status (TPS) is a temporary immigration status that is granted to nationals of certain countries who are eligible for citizenship in the United States. Your country must be designated as TPS by the Secretary of Homeland Security in order for you to apply. TPS is typically provided to any foreign nationals who cannot safely return to their country due to armed conflict, a natural disaster, or any other dangerous conditions. The length of time in which you remain in the U.S. depends on your situation, but you won’t stay for any less than six months or any longer than 18 months.

The immigration law firm of Berd & Klauss, PLLC has been assisting aliens with TPS for many years. While TPS does provide you with an opportunity to stay in the United States, it does not grant you eligibility for a green card. However, you can still become eligible at a later time. If you marry a citizen of the United States or have a job that is willing to sponsor you, you’ll become eligible for an application for permanent residence, but just having TPS is not enough of a basis to adjust your status.

There are eight countries that are currently designated for TPS:

El Salvador: TPS is extended through March 9, 2015. There is a 60 day re-registration period.

Haiti: TPS is extended through January 22, 2016. The 60 day re-registration period was extended by a Federal Register Notice.

Honduras: TPS is extended through January 5, 2015. The country has maintained a physical presence in the United States since 1999.

Nicaragua: TPS is extended through January 5, 2015. Like most other countires, there is a 60 day re-registration period in order for you to maintain your Temporary Protected Status.

Somalia: TPS is extended through September 17, 2015. The country has maintained a physical presence i the United States since September 16, 1991. There is no automatic extension, as sufficient time was deemed available to issue new EADs

Sudan: TPS is extended through November 2, 2014. There is no automatic extension.

South Sudan: Similar to Sudan, TPS is extended through November 2, 2014 and there is no automatic extension.

Syria: TPS is extended through March 31, 2015. There is a 60 day re-registration period for those who wish to maintain their TPS.

In order to apply for Temporary Status, you’ll need to fill out a Form I-821, pay a filing fee, and provide a proof of residence as well as two identical color photographs. The experienced immigration attorneys at Berd & Klauss, PLLC will walk you through the application process and will help you obtain a green card if you become eligible. Visit the immigration law firm online for information on Temporary Protection Status.