Temporary Protected Status (TPS)
Temporary Protected Status (TPS) can allow people from certain designated countries to stay and work in the United States for a limited time. Because designations and deadlines change frequently, current information is essential.
Current status matters most
TPS depends on your country being designated and on meeting registration deadlines and requirements — and designations are added, extended, or ended on short notice. Do not rely on older information.
How we help
We check your country’s current status, help you register or re-register on time, and look at whether a longer-term option may also be available to you. Se habla espanol.
Frequently asked questions
What is Temporary Protected Status (TPS)?
TPS is a temporary immigration protection for people from certain countries facing conditions like armed conflict or disaster that make safe return difficult. It can provide protection from removal and work authorization for a limited, renewable period. Because it is temporary and changes often, it is important to check current rules. Se habla espanol.
Is TPS still available for my country?
TPS country designations change frequently, with countries being added, extended, or ended on short notice. Because this changes so often, you should always verify your country's current status. An attorney can help you confirm whether you may be eligible right now.
How do I know if my country is designated for TPS?
Country designations are set by the U.S. government and can change at any time. It is important not to rely on old information, because designations are frequently updated. Checking your country's current status with an attorney is the safest approach.
What are the deadlines to register for TPS?
TPS has specific initial registration and re-registration windows that vary by country and can be short. Missing a deadline can jeopardize your protection, so timing is critical. Always confirm the current dates before you rely on them.
Can I work in the United States with TPS?
Yes. TPS beneficiaries can generally apply for work authorization, allowing you to work lawfully while your protection is in effect. You typically must apply and keep your documents current. An attorney can help you file and renew on time.
Does TPS lead to a green card?
TPS by itself is a temporary status and does not automatically lead to a green card. However, some TPS holders may have other paths to permanent residence depending on their circumstances. An attorney can review whether any long-term options may be available to you.
What happens if TPS ends for my country?
If a country's TPS designation is terminated, protection and work authorization can end after a wind-down period. This is why it is so important to stay informed and plan ahead. An attorney can help you explore other options before your protection ends.
Do I have to re-register for TPS?
Yes. TPS holders generally must re-register during each designated re-registration period to keep their status and work authorization. Missing a re-registration window can put your status at risk. Because these dates change, always confirm them and re-register on time.
Can I travel outside the United States with TPS?
Traveling abroad with TPS usually requires advance permission, and leaving without it can put your status at risk. The rules can be strict, so you should never assume travel is safe. Always speak with an attorney before making any travel plans.
Who is eligible for TPS?
Eligibility generally requires that you are a national of a designated country, have continuously lived in the United States since a required date, and meet certain other conditions. Some criminal or security issues can affect eligibility. An attorney can review whether you qualify.
How long does TPS last?
TPS is granted for a limited period and must be renewed, and designations can be extended or ended on short notice. Because it is temporary and volatile, you should never assume it will continue indefinitely. Staying informed is essential.
Is there a fee to apply for TPS?
TPS applications may involve fees, and fee waivers may be available in some cases. These amounts can change, so verify them before filing. An attorney can explain what applies to your situation.
What if I missed the TPS registration deadline?
In some situations, late initial registration may be allowed if you meet certain conditions. Do not assume you are out of options before checking. An attorney can help you understand whether you may still be able to register.
Can my family members get TPS too?
TPS is based on each individual's own eligibility, so family members generally must qualify on their own. Being related to a TPS holder does not automatically grant the same status. An attorney can help each family member understand whether they may qualify.
Is my TPS information kept private?
Immigration matters are handled with privacy, and your attorney is bound to keep your information confidential. If you have specific concerns about safety or disclosure, share them with your attorney. Understanding how your information is used can bring peace of mind.
Does having TPS protect me from deportation?
While your TPS is valid, it generally protects you from removal and lets you remain in the United States lawfully during that period. This protection lasts only as long as your status remains in effect. Keeping your registration and documents current is essential to maintaining it.
Can I apply for asylum and TPS at the same time?
In many cases you can pursue more than one form of protection at once, and TPS does not necessarily prevent you from seeking asylum. Because deadlines and eligibility rules differ, it is important to plan carefully. An attorney can help you consider all of your options together.
What documents do I need to apply for TPS?
Applicants generally need proof of nationality, proof of continuous residence in the United States, and identity documents. Gathering the right evidence early can help avoid delays. An attorney can help you prepare a complete application.
Can a notario handle my TPS application?
No. Only a licensed attorney or an accredited representative can give legal advice and properly handle your case — a notary or notario cannot. Because TPS rules change so often, working with a qualified professional helps protect you. Se habla espanol.
Where can I find the most current TPS information?
Because TPS is volatile and changes on short notice, current designations, deadlines, and rules should always be verified before you rely on them. Do not depend on older information you may have heard. A licensed attorney can help you confirm the latest status for your country.
This is federal law — but where you are still matters
What is on this page applies the same way in every state. Which office and court handle your case, how detention works where you are, and how far local police cooperate with immigration enforcement are not the same across California, Arizona and New Mexico. Pick your state for that.