Background
The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) announced the designation of Ethiopia for Temporary Protected Status (TPS) and Special Student Relief (SSR) relief for 18 months, from December 12, 2022, through June 12, 2024.
What is TPS?
Temporary Protected Status is a humanitarian relief granted by the Secretary of the Department of Homeland Security (DHS). It was established by Congress recognizing the dangers of returning immigrants to their home countries experiencing ongoing armed conflict, natural disasters, or other extraordinary or temporary conditions that are a threat to their safety. If the country's conditions reflect one of the above statutory grounds of eligibility, the Secretary provides a designation of Temporary Protected Status (TPS). DHS makes the final decision on whether to designate TPS for a country, hence requiring a great deal of push from advocates. Learn more about TPS here.
What is SSR?
Special Student Relief (SSR) provides relief to F1 international students who are experiencing severe economic hardship as a direct result of the humanitarian crisis in their home country. SSR gives international students more flexibility related to their duration of status, course load, and employment eligibility
How do I register?
To register initially under the designation, you must submit Form I-821, Application for Temporary Protected Status, and Form I-765, Request for Employment Authorization, and pay the required filing fee. The filing fee for Form I-821 is $50, and the filing fee for Form I-765 is $410. Biometric fees may apply and is an additional fee of $85.
Beneficiaries can request a fee waiver (Form I-912) for the filing fee by demonstrating the inability to pay.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I apply for other forms of immigration relief?
An application for TPS does not affect an application for asylum, humanitarian parole, or any other immigration benefit.
Can I apply for TPS if I have a criminal charge?
Yes, but it depends on the charge. It is important that you consult an immigration lawyer immediately.
Does TPS provide a path to citizenship?
No, TPS is a temporary legal protection and does not lead to permanent residency (green card) or citizenship.