If you’re in a position where you cannot return to your home country because of natural disaster, armed conflict, or other extraordinary conditions, Temporary Protected Status is one option that may offer you safety in the United States. This program provides temporary protection from deportation and unsafe conditions in your home country. It also provides the ability to work. However, the application process can be detailed and confusing, which is why we recommend speaking with a Temporary Protected Status lawyer.
At Karlin & Karlin, we help individuals seeking lawful presence in the United States understand their options, including TPS enrollment.
Call us at 888-365-1555 to schedule a consultation to discuss TPS enrollment and other potential options.
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What Does Temporary Protected Status Do?
The first question we often get from potential applicants is, “what is TPS?” People unaware of this program are relieved to find out that there are options specific to their needs. TPS is a humanitarian immigration program that allows people from designated countries to stay in the United States when returning home is unsafe. The U.S. government may designate countries for TPS based on environmental disasters, ongoing wars and armed conflict, and other circumstances that threaten your safety.
As the name states, TPS is temporary—and that’s an intentional choice. It does not provide permanent resident status, citizenship, or a direct TPS to green card pathway. However, it does give you stability while conditions in your home country are unsafe.
Who Qualifies for Temporary Protected Status?
One of the first things your Temporary Protected Status lawyer will do with you is determine your eligibility. Requirements typically include:
- Being a national of a country designated for TPS
- Demonstrating continuous physical presence in the U.S.
- Continuous residence since a specific date
- Filing your application within the designated registration period
There are factors that can make you ineligible for TPS, including some criminal convictions and previous immigration violations. This program can be very strict with eligibility requirements, which is why you should speak with a Temporary Protected Status lawyer before going through TPS enrollment.
Countries Qualifying for TPS
Temporary Protected Status can be fairly volatile, with several countries losing their designated status in 2025 and 2026. These decisions are also subject to lawsuits, so a country’s status may change quickly. Applicants should review the official USCIS TPS country list before applying.
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TPS Enrollment and Application Steps
The TPS enrollment process begins with submitting an application to USCIS during an open registration or reregistration period. If you miss a deadline, you could lose eligibility—so apply early and ensure that you provide all necessary information.
Initial TPS enrollment applies to first-time applicants. Those who are already approved need to renew via reregistration.
Form I-821 and Supporting Documents
Form I-821 is the main application used for TPS enrollment and helps establish your eligibility. You may also file Form I-765 if you want to request work authorization.
Supporting documentation is an equally important part of your application. Relevant documents may include:
- Proof of identity and nationality
- Evidence of continuous residence and physical presence in the United States
- Records proving eligibility based on current requirements
You must also pay all filing fees at the time of applying unless you qualify for a fee waiver.
TPS to Green Card Options
Many applicants wonder if there’s a direct TPS to green card route. While TPS itself does not lead to permanent residency, applicants may qualify for permanent resident status via other avenues. For example, they may qualify for adjustment of status via family-based petitions, employment-based sponsorship, or other humanitarian programs.
A number of factors come into play when you’re seeking permanent resident status, such as current immigration policies, lawful entry into the United States, and any history of immigration violations.
How A Temporary Protected Status Lawyer Can Help
Working with an experienced Temporary Protected Status lawyer makes it easier to work through each stage of the application process. Our team is here to help you determine your eligibility, prepare and review your application before sending it to USCIS, comply with deadlines and filing requirements, provide guidance on work authorization, and look into pathways to permanent residency.
We understand the stress and anxiety that come with frequent changes to immigration laws and policies, and we strive to help you find stability while securing long-term solutions for your family.
If you’re from a qualifying country and you’re seeking relief from dangerous circumstances, it’s time to meet with our team. Call Karlin & Karlin at 888-365-1555 and talk to a temporary protected status lawyer to set up a time to meet.
