TPS Frequently Asked Questions

On March 29, 2012, the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) announced that eligible Syrian nationals in the United States may apply for Temporary Protected Status (TPS).  

For up-to-date General information visit the USCIS website.

Q: What is Temporary Protected Status (TPS)?

A: TPS is a temporary immigration status granted to foreign nationals of certain countries who are in the U.S. and who cannot safely return to their home countries due to ongoing armed conflict, natural disasters, or other emergency conditions.  Syrians granted TPS status may not be deported from the US; they can obtain work authorization; and they may be granted permission to travel. 

Q: Why has Syria been designated for TPS?

A: US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) stated that Syria has been designated for TPS status "[d]ue to the violent upheaval and deteriorating situation in Syria," referring to the uprising against the Syrian regime. 

Q: Who is eligible for TPS status?

A: Generally, any Syrian national who came to the US on or before March 29, 2012 is eligible for TPS status.  Based on the humanitarian purpose of TPS relief, and unlike many other areas of US immigration law, Syrian nationals may be considered for TPS whether or not they have maintained valid immigration status.  Mandatory bars, however, exist for individuals with certain criminal convictions (a felony or two or more misdemeanors) and for other security-related matters.  Certain other grounds of inadmissibility may be waivable.  It is important for applicants to seek qualified legal counsel to determine if TPS is advantageous and whether any risks may apply. 

Q: What is the deadline for Syrians to file for TPS?

A: The registration period for Syrians to apply for TPS is March 29, 2012 through September 25, 2012.  

Q: How long will TPS protection be available for Syrians?

A: Currently, USCIS has designated Syria for TPS for an 18-month period (i.e., until September 30, 2013), with the possibility of renewal. However, all applications must be filed by September 25, 2012.

Q: Can TPS status lead to any permanent immigration status?

A: No. TPS does not provide a path to permanent resident status ("green card") or any other long term status. 

Q: What will happen to my current immigration status if I obtain TPS? Can I apply for any other immigration status if I receive TPS?

A: TPS will not affect your current valid immigration status.  Your status will remain valid as long as it is does not expire and you continue to follow the conditions of that status.  Even as a TPS holder, you may apply for any other immigration status for which you are eligible.  An application for TPS will have no affect on your application for any other immigration benefit. When the TPS designation for Syria is terminated, TPS holders will revert to the same immigration status (or lack of status) they maintained before TPS, if that status remains valid, or to any other status they may have obtained while registered for TPS.

Q: What supporting documents do I need to apply for TPS?

A: In addition to the necessary immigration forms (Form I-821 and I-765), you must provide the following:

  • evidence of your identity and Syrian nationality (or that you have no nationality and you last habitually resided in Syria) (i.e., passport, birth certificate, or "hawiyeh" national identification card).
  • evidence of your date of entry to demonstrate that you entered the US on or before March 29, 2012 (i.e., copy of passport and I-94 card).
  • evidence that you have continuously resided in the US since March 29, 2012 (i.e., school or employment records, rent receipts, medical records, statements from others, etc.).  

Any document in Arabic must be accompanied by a certified English translation. 

Q: What is the government filing fee for TPS?

A: The government filing fee for TPS is $515 for individuals ages 14-65 who wish to receive work authorization.  The fee is $50 for children (ages 0 - 13); $135 for adults over 65; and $135 for applicants who do not wish to receive work authorization. Payments must be made by check or money order payable to the "Department of Homeland Security." If you cannot afford the costs associated with filing, you may be eligible for a fee waiver by USCIS. 

Q: How long will it take for my TPS application to be decided?

A: You are likely to receive a decision within three months, possibly sooner. 

Q: Do you need additional information?

A: It is important for applicants to seek qualified legal counsel to determine if TPS is advantageous and whether any risks may apply.  If you would like to discuss the possibility of applying for TPS, please contact us and we'll connect you to an attorney for a free initial consultation. All inquiries are confidential. 

General information can also be found on the USCIS website.

** DISCLAIMER: The information in this message provides general information only. This information does not constitute legal advice and does not take the place of consulting with an attorney. We do not warrant that the materials in this advisory are completely accurate, error-free or comprehensive. **