TPS Temporary Protected Status in San Jacinto: Protection for Nationals from Designated Countries
Understanding TPS eligibility, application, and renewal for Arab and Middle Eastern nationals
Quick Answer
San Jacinto's growing immigrant community includes nationals from countries designated for Temporary Protected Status (TPS). If you're from Syria, Yemen, Sudan, or another designated country, TPS may provide protection from deportation and authorization to work in the United States. Our Arabic-speaking team helps Inland Empire residents understand and maintain their TPS status.
Reviewed for accuracy by
Maria Santos
DOJ Accredited Representative • 15+ years experience
San Jacinto's growing immigrant community includes nationals from countries designated for Temporary Protected Status (TPS). If you're from Syria, Yemen, Sudan, or another designated country, TPS may provide protection from deportation and authorization to work in the United States. Our Arabic-speaking team helps Inland Empire residents understand and maintain their TPS status.
What is Temporary Protected Status?
• Ongoing armed conflict (civil war, etc.)
• Environmental disasters (earthquakes, hurricanes, etc.)
• Other extraordinary conditions
TPS allows you to remain in the U.S., work legally, and travel with advance permission. It does NOT lead directly to a green card, but it protects you while conditions in your home country are unsafe.
Current TPS-Designated Countries
| Country | Designation Status | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Syria | Active | Extended multiple times since 2012 |
| Yemen | Active | Due to ongoing civil war |
| Sudan | Active | Recently redesignated |
| Somalia | Active | Long-standing designation |
| South Sudan | Active | Due to civil conflict |
| Lebanon | Check current status | May have recent designation |
TPS Eligibility Requirements
- •Be a national of a TPS-designated country
- •Have continuously resided in the U.S. since the designation date
- •Have been continuously physically present since the required date
- •Not have certain criminal convictions
- •Not be inadmissible as an immigrant
- •Register during the initial or re-registration period
- •Meet any other country-specific requirements
TPS Benefits
• Protection from deportation while TPS is in effect
• Employment Authorization Document (EAD) to work legally
• Ability to obtain a driver's license
• Social Security number for work purposes
• Travel authorization (with advance approval)
• Protection from detention based solely on immigration status
How to Apply for TPS
- •File Form I-821, Application for TPS ($50 fee)
- •File Form I-765, Application for EAD ($410 fee)
- •Submit evidence of nationality (passport, birth certificate)
- •Provide evidence of continuous residence and presence
- •Complete biometrics appointment
- •Wait for approval and EAD card
TPS Re-Registration
• USCIS announces re-registration periods for each country
• You must re-register during the designated window
• Failure to re-register can result in loss of TPS
• Your EAD is automatically extended while re-registration is pending
• Keep all receipts and documentation
Travel with TPS
• Must apply for advance parole (Form I-131) before traveling
• Travel without advance parole can result in loss of TPS
• Returning may be considered a new 'admission' (beneficial for some)
• Some countries may have additional travel restrictions
• Consult with us before any international travel
TPS and Pathways to Green Card
• Family-based petitions (if you have a qualifying relative)
• Employment-based sponsorship (if employer will sponsor)
• Asylum (if you have a separate persecution claim)
• TPS + lawful admission may allow adjustment of status
• Travel and return with advance parole may create 'admission'
Common TPS Challenges
- •Uncertainty about TPS extension or termination
- •Missing re-registration deadlines
- •Difficulty proving continuous residence/presence
- •Criminal issues that affect TPS eligibility
- •Travel complications and advance parole requirements
- •Confusion about path to permanent status
Why San Jacinto Residents Choose Us
- •Arabic-speaking staff for clear communication
- •Experience with Syrian, Yemeni, and Sudanese TPS cases
- •Help with initial applications and re-registrations
- •Guidance on travel and advance parole
- •Exploration of green card pathways
- •Monitoring of TPS policy changes
FAQFrequently Asked Questions
Q:How long does TPS last?
A: TPS is designated for 6, 12, or 18 months at a time. The Secretary of Homeland Security reviews conditions and decides whether to extend, redesignate, or terminate TPS for each country.
Q:Can I get a green card through TPS?
A: TPS itself doesn't lead to a green card. However, you may be eligible for a green card through family sponsorship, employment, or other means. If you travel and return with advance parole, this may help with adjustment of status eligibility.
Q:What happens if TPS for my country is terminated?
A: If TPS is terminated, you would need another legal status to remain in the U.S. Termination typically includes a transition period. We can help you explore other options before termination takes effect.
Q:Can my children get TPS?
A: Children can get their own TPS if they are nationals of the designated country and meet all eligibility requirements. Children born in the U.S. are citizens and don't need TPS.
Q:What if I missed a re-registration period?
A: Missing re-registration can result in loss of TPS. However, late registration may be possible in some circumstances. Contact us immediately if you've missed a deadline—time is critical.
Q:Can I apply for TPS if I'm in removal proceedings?
A: Yes, you can apply for TPS even if you're in removal proceedings. The immigration judge does not adjudicate TPS—USCIS does. However, you must still meet all eligibility requirements.
Need Help with TPS?
Whether you're applying for the first time or need to re-register, our team helps San Jacinto residents maintain their TPS status and explore permanent options.
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