The Temporary Protected Status (TPS) program gives the U.S. federal government the option to offer individuals from qualifying countries certain protections. Under the Biden administration, seventeen countries are included on the list. However, the Trump administration is seemingly poised to severely limit the program. As such, President Biden is being urged to enact protections to the program.
For countries to qualify for TPS, the U.S. Secretary of Homeland Security must determine that conditions in that country, like ongoing armed conflict, a natural disaster, or other extraordinary temporary circumstances, limits its nationals from safely returning. Qualifying individuals from those countries are then eligible to apply for temporary employment authorization and protection from deportation. There are hundreds of thousands of individuals currently in the U.S. with TPS protections.
During the first Trump administration, several countries were targeted to remove TPS status. The effort, however, was met with yearslong court battles. Since then, Republicans in Congress have taken efforts to restrict the program. A bill was introduced that would require Congressional approval of the TPS program, in 12-month increments. However, that bill did not move forward. Trump has promised to enact mass deportation, restrict TPS and other immigration programs. To date, no actions have been taken to protect TPS holders.
If you have questions about the Temporary Protected Status program or any other U.S. immigration issues, contact us. Our clients work directly with attorneys to ensure they get the right advice.
