The U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) announced qualifying Lebanese nationals currently in the United States can apply for Temporary Protected Status (TPS). This program joins the previously announced option of Deferred Enforced Departure (DED) for qualifying individuals from Lebanon. The temporary reprieve programs offers approved individuals the option of requesting employment authorization.
Due to the ongoing conflict in the region, the TPS designation for Lebanese is offered for 18 months to approved individuals. If granted, individuals can remain in the U.S. as the conflict along the Israel-Lebanon border continues. Lebanese nationals and those with no nationality who resided in Lebanon who have been continually residing in the U.S. since October 16, 2024, can file the initial application, presuming they otherwise qualify. Lebanese nationals who arrived in the U.S. after October 16, 2024, are not eligible for TPS. More details are forthcoming in the Federal Register Notice, expected in the next few weeks. Individuals should not apply prior to the Federal Register Notice publication date.
The DED program for qualifying Lebanese individuals was announced in July 2024. Under that program, approved individuals have the option to apply for Employment Authorization Documents (EADs), valid through January 25, 2026. Each EAD application is reviewed on a case-by-case basis. Interested Lebanese nationals can apply now.
Nonimmigrant students with citizenship from Lebanon may qualify for a Special Student Relief Notice if holding an F-1 visa. Through that program, approved individuals can request employment authorization, receive eligibility to work an increased number of hours during school sessions, and reduce course load. The F-1 status will continue if approved through the DED designation period.
An estimated 11,000 Lebanese nationals are likely eligible for the DED and TPS program. Approximately 1,740 F-1 nonimmigration students from Lebanon in the U.S. may be eligible for the Special Student Relief program.
If you have questions about the TPS, DED, or Special Student Relief programs, contact us at ILBSG. Our team of experienced attorneys support both family-based and employment-based U.S. immigration matters. Clients work directly with attorneys to ensure they get the right advice for their particular situations.
