Temporary Protected Status (TPS): An Overview

Temporary Protected Status (TPS) was established by Congress as part of the Immigration Act of 1990. It offers a temporary immigration status to nationals of certain countries experiencing ongoing armed conflict, environmental disasters, or other extraordinary conditions that prevent safe return.

Purpose and Eligibility

TPS is designed to provide temporary relief from deportation and employment authorization for individuals in the U.S. who come from countries with conditions that make return unsafe. Eligibility depends on being a national of a designated country and meeting certain residency and admissibility criteria.

How TPS Works

Designation: The Secretary of Homeland Security can designate a country for TPS based on criteria such as armed conflict, natural disasters, or other urgent conditions.
Duration: TPS is granted for specific periods, usually 6 to 18 months, but can be extended if unsafe conditions persist.
Benefits: Individuals granted TPS can remain in the U.S. legally during the period, obtain work authorization, and travel abroad with prior approval.

Limitations

TPS does not provide a direct path to permanent residency or citizenship. It is a temporary status that depends on the conditions in the home country and government discretion.

Historical Use

Originally created to protect nationals from countries like El Salvador and Honduras, TPS has been used for various crises, including natural disasters and conflicts. It remains a vital protection for eligible individuals unable to return home safely.

"TPS provides a critical humanitarian lifeline for individuals caught in untenable situations beyond their control."

TPS offers temporary but essential protection without granting permanent status, ensuring safety and work rights for those from unstable countries.

American Immigration Council — 2025-11-26