OUR IMMIGRATION SERVICESTemporary Protected Status (TPS) in the United States

Author: Attorney Vitaly Malyuk. License: MO No. 73573

OUR IMMIGRATION SERVICESTemporary Protected Status (TPS) in the United States

Overview of TPS

Temporary Protected Status (TPS) is a temporary immigration benefit granted by the U.S. government to nationals of designated countries experiencing extraordinary conditions such as armed conflict, environmental disaster, or other temporary but dangerous conditions.

TPS allows eligible individuals to remain in the United States legally, apply for work authorization, and receive protection from deportation for a limited period of time. While TPS is not a direct path to permanent residency, it can provide much-needed stability in times of crisis.

Countries eligible for TPS

The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) designates countries for TPS based on specific criteria, and each designation includes a start date and eligibility requirements. As of 2025, some of the countries currently designated for TPS include

Ukraine
VENEZUELA
El Salvador Haiti
Sudan
Nicaragua
Syria
Afghanistan
Cameroon

The list of TPS designated countries is subject to change. Check the official USCIS website for the latest information..

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How Our Legal Team Supports Your TPS Journey

What we do for your TPS case

At Arvian Law Firm, we understand that applying for Temporary Protected Status (TPS) is more than just filling out forms – it’s a legal process that requires precision, timing, and strategic thinking. Our team is committed to guiding you through every step of your TPS application to ensure that your case is presented accurately and completely. Here’s how we help:

Initial Eligibility Assessment We begin by reviewing your immigration history, citizenship, and presence in the U.S. to determine whether you meet the criteria for TPS under the current designations. This step helps you avoid unnecessary filings and focus only on the benefits for which you qualify.
Document Gathering & Strategy We help you assemble a strong package of evidence – from proof of identity and citizenship to documentation of continuous residence and physical presence in the U.S. We also strategize the best timing for filing based on re-registration windows or initial designations.
Form Preparation (I-821 & I-765) Filing TPS involves more than just one form. Our attorneys handle the complete preparation of USCIS Forms I-821 (TPS) and I-765 (Employment Authorization), along with any required waivers or supporting statements. We ensure that your paperwork is accurate and USCIS compliant.
Customized Legal Declarations
If your case involves complexities-such as a late initial filing, a prior deportation order, or a criminal record-we prepare customized legal briefs and affidavits that explain your eligibility and mitigate any risks that could lead to a denial.
Review & Double-Check Before submitting your application, we perform a final quality review to ensure that all documents are in order, all forms are signed, and no required evidence is missing. This step reduces processing delays and minimizes Requests for Evidence (RFEs).
Filing and Monitoring Your Case We file your TPS application with the correct service center and track USCIS processing times, biometrics appointments, and any follow-up notices. You’ll be kept informed throughout the process.

Why Legal Assistance Matters for TPS

While TPS is often viewed as a humanitarian program, it is still a highly regulated and document-intensive legal process. Many people are denied TPS not because they are ineligible – but because of technical errors, missed deadlines, or lack of legal explanation for complications in their case.

Here’s why working with an experienced legal team can make all the difference:

Avoid Denials Due to Errors Our experienced staff will ensure that your application is not denied due to avoidable issues such as unsigned forms, missing documents, or filing in the wrong category.
Help with Complex Situations Out of status for years? Entered without inspection? Have an old deportation order or criminal charge? We analyze your case from every angle and provide the legal framework to move forward with confidence – even with past complications.
Employment Authorization Assistance TPS allows for employment authorization, but delays or errors in the Form I-765 can prevent you from receiving your EAD on time. We track deadlines, file extension requests, and handle problems with denied or delayed work authorization.
Advance Parole Guidance If you need to travel outside the U.S. while holding TPS, we help you apply for advance parole and explain the risks and benefits. A misstep here can cause you to lose status or be denied re-entry – we help you travel with confidence.
Preparing for Re-Registration or Redesignation TPS is not permanent. You must re-register each time your country’s status is renewed. We will notify you of re-registration windows, prepare updated documentation, and ensure that USCIS receives everything on time.
Future Immigration Planning Many TPS holders want to explore long-term options, including family-based green cards, asylum, or employment-based adjustment. Our attorneys advise on strategies to transition from TPS to permanent residency, if possible.

✅ Whether you are applying for TPS for the first time or need help re-registering or resolving a past denial, Arvian Law Firm is here to support your journey with professional guidance every step of the way.

Answers to FAQs

What is TPS and how does it differ from asylum or a green card?

TPS is a temporary immigration status granted to nationals of certain countries affected by war, natural disaster, or other extraordinary conditions. Unlike asylum or a green card, TPS does not lead directly to permanent residency. It does, however, protect you from deportation and allows you to work legally in the U.S. during the designated period.

Who qualifies for TPS?

To qualify, you must

Be a national of a TPS-designated country (or a stateless person who last resided there)
Be physically present in the U.S. continuously since the date designated by DHS
Have continuously resided in the U.S. since the designated registration date
Not have certain criminal convictions or immigration violations

How long does TPS last?

TPS is granted for 6 to 18 months at a time, depending on the situation in your country. DHS may renew TPS for designated countries multiple times. However, TPS holders must re-register during each extension period to maintain their protection.

Can I work with TPS?

Yes. If you apply for and receive an Employment Authorization Document (EAD) by filing Form I-765 with your TPS application, you are eligible to work legally in the U.S. for the duration of your TPS.

Can I travel outside the U.S. if I have TPS?

Only if you apply for and are granted Advance Parole (Form I-131). Traveling without Advance Parole while under TPS may result in loss of status or denial of re-entry. Always consult with an immigration attorney before traveling internationally.

What happens if TPS is terminated for my country?

If TPS ends for your country, you will lose protection from removal and work authorization unless you have another valid immigration status or pending application (e.g., asylum, adjustment of status). It’s important to explore alternative immigration options before TPS ends.

Can I apply for a green card while on TPS?

TPS itself does not lead to a green card, but you may still be eligible through

Marriage to a U.S. citizen
Employment-based petitions (such as EB-2 NIW)
Family petitions
Asylum or Special Humanitarian Programs An immigration attorney can evaluate your eligibility and help you plan for long-term status.