Syrian TPS Extension in Vista: Temporary Protected Status Renewal Guide 2026
Maintain your protected status and work authorization as a Syrian national
Quick Answer
Syrian nationals in Vista with TPS must re-register during each extension period to maintain protected status and work authorization. The current TPS designation for Syria continues through 2026.
Reviewed for accuracy by
Maria Santos
DOJ Accredited Representative • 15+ years experience
For Syrian nationals in Vista and North San Diego County, Temporary Protected Status (TPS) provides critical protection from deportation and work authorization. SoCal Immigration Services helps Syrian families navigate TPS renewals with Arabic-speaking support.
What is TPS for Syrian Nationals?
Syria has been designated for TPS since 2012 due to the ongoing civil war. This means Syrian nationals who were in the U.S. by specific cutoff dates can:
• Remain in the U.S. legally
• Obtain work authorization
• Apply for travel permission
• Be protected from deportation
Current TPS Designation for Syria
| Status | Date/Information | Action Required |
|---|---|---|
| Original Designation | March 29, 2012 | Initial eligibility established |
| Continuous Residence | Since August 1, 2016 | Must prove continuous presence |
| Physical Presence | October 1, 2016 | Must have been in U.S. |
| Current Extension | Through 2026 | Re-registration required |
| Re-registration Period | 60-day window | Must file during open period |
TPS Re-Registration Requirements
- •Re-register during each designated re-registration period
- •File Form I-821 (TPS application) during the open window
- •File Form I-765 for Employment Authorization Document renewal
- •Pay applicable fees or request fee waiver
- •Maintain continuous residence and physical presence
- •Not have any disqualifying criminal convictions
Required Documents for TPS Renewal
- •Form I-821, Application for Temporary Protected Status
- •Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization
- •Copy of current TPS approval notice
- •Copy of current or expired EAD
- •Two passport-style photos
- •Evidence of continuous residence (bills, leases, tax returns)
- •Evidence of nationality (Syrian passport or birth certificate)
- •Filing fee or Form I-912 Fee Waiver Request
TPS Filing Fees
| Form | Fee | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| I-821 (TPS Application) | $50 | Required for re-registration |
| I-765 (Work Permit) | $410 | For EAD renewal |
| Biometrics | $85 | If required by USCIS |
| Total | $545 | Fee waiver available for those who qualify |
| Fee Waiver (I-912) | $0 | For low-income applicants |
Continuous Residence Requirement
• Utility bills, phone bills in your name
• Lease agreements or mortgage statements
• Tax returns and W-2 forms
• School records for you or your children
• Medical records with dates of treatment
• Bank statements showing ongoing activity
• Employment records and pay stubs
Brief trips outside the U.S. generally don't break continuous residence, but you should document all travel.
Travel with Syrian TPS
- •Apply for Advance Parole using Form I-131
- •Get approved BEFORE leaving the United States
- •Travel documents are valid for specific trips/timeframes
- •Carry your TPS approval notice and EAD when traveling
- •Be prepared for questioning at ports of entry
- •Extended travel may affect continuous residence
TPS Work Authorization
• EAD is typically valid for the TPS designation period
• Automatic extensions may apply during re-registration
• Keep your EAD current - employers verify work authorization
• You can work for any employer in any field
• Show employers your EAD and TPS approval notice
• Auto-extensions require showing both old EAD and extension notice
What TPS Does NOT Provide
- •TPS is NOT a path to permanent residence (green card)
- •TPS does NOT provide a path to citizenship
- •TPS can be terminated if conditions in Syria improve
- •You must re-register during each extension period
- •Criminal activity can result in TPS termination
- •Leaving without advance parole can terminate TPS
Options Beyond TPS
• Asylum: If you haven't already filed, you may be eligible
• Family-based petition: If a U.S. citizen or LPR relative can sponsor you
• Employment-based immigration: If an employer can sponsor you
• Marriage to U.S. citizen: May provide path to green card
• Special Immigrant Visa: For those who worked with U.S. government
Consult with an immigration professional about your specific situation.
Vista TPS Services
- •TPS re-registration assistance
- •Work permit renewal applications
- •Travel authorization (advance parole) help
- •Fee waiver applications for qualifying families
- •Document translation and preparation
- •Arabic-speaking staff who understand your situation
FAQFrequently Asked Questions
Q:When is the TPS re-registration period for Syrians?
A: Re-registration periods are announced by USCIS before each TPS extension. You typically have 60 days to re-register. Watch for announcements and file as soon as the period opens.
Q:What happens if I miss the re-registration deadline?
A: Missing the re-registration deadline can result in losing TPS status. However, USCIS may accept late filings with good cause. Contact us immediately if you've missed a deadline.
Q:Can I get a green card with TPS?
A: TPS itself doesn't lead to a green card, but you may be eligible through family sponsorship, employment, or other categories. Many TPS holders have successfully adjusted status through marriage to U.S. citizens.
Q:Can I travel to Syria with TPS?
A: Traveling to Syria is extremely risky for TPS holders. It may be considered evidence that country conditions have improved and could jeopardize your TPS status. Consult an attorney before any travel to Syria.
Q:What if TPS for Syria is terminated?
A: If TPS is terminated, you would typically be given a wind-down period to leave the U.S. or find another legal status. Current administration policies continue to extend Syrian TPS designation.
Q:Can my children born in the U.S. get TPS?
A: Children born in the U.S. are U.S. citizens and don't need TPS. Children born abroad may qualify for TPS derivative status if they meet requirements.
Need Help with Syrian TPS in Vista?
Don't risk losing your protected status. Let our Arabic-speaking team help you with TPS re-registration and work permit renewal.
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