What is Temporary Protected Status (TPS)?
TPS is a form of humanitarian relief that allows nationals of certain countries to live and work legally in the United States when conditions at home make return unsafe. Here is what it covers, who qualifies, and what it does — and does not — offer.
Temporary Protected Status (TPS) is an immigration status granted by the U.S. government to nationals of specific countries experiencing conditions that make safe return impossible — including armed conflict, environmental disasters, or other extraordinary and temporary circumstances. It allows eligible individuals already inside the United States to remain and work legally for a defined period of time.
Who is eligible?
To qualify for TPS, you must have been physically present in the United States at the time your country was officially designated. You must also demonstrate continuous residence in the U.S. since that designation date, and you cannot have any disqualifying criminal convictions or other bars to immigration benefits.
Eligibility requirements vary slightly by country designation, so it is important to verify the specific conditions that apply to your situation.
What does TPS offer?
TPS provides three core protections while it remains in effect:
- Protection from deportation — you cannot be removed from the U.S. while your TPS is active and properly maintained.
- Work authorization — you are eligible to receive an Employment Authorization Document (EAD), allowing you to work legally in the United States.
- Travel permission — with advance parole approved in advance, TPS holders may be permitted to travel internationally and re-enter the U.S.
How long does it last?
TPS is granted in periods of 6, 12, or 18 months at a time. The U.S. government reviews conditions in each designated country and decides whether to extend or terminate TPS based on its assessment. If TPS is extended, holders must re-register during each renewal window to maintain their status — missing that window can put your protection at risk.
What TPS does not do
It is important to understand that TPS is a temporary status. It does not lead directly to a green card, lawful permanent residence, or U.S. citizenship. However, holding TPS does not prevent you from pursuing other immigration benefits you may independently qualify for. If your circumstances change — or if another immigration pathway becomes available to you — TPS holders can apply for those benefits separately.
Countries recently designated for TPS
The following countries have active or recently active TPS designations. Each designation is based on the U.S. government’s ongoing assessment of conditions in that country:
- El Salvador
- Honduras
- Haiti
- Venezuela
- Sudan
- Ukraine
Designations are subject to change. If your country is not listed here, it is worth confirming the current status directly, as new designations are occasionally announced.
Have questions about your TPS eligibility?
The rules around TPS — eligibility dates, re-registration deadlines, and what it means for your broader immigration situation — can be difficult to navigate alone. If you have questions specific to your case, we are happy to talk it through. The initial consultation is free.
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