Secretary Alejandro N. Mayorkas of the Department of Homeland Security recently announced the extension and redesignation of Yemen for Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for an initial period of 18 months, from September 4, 2021, to March 3, 2023. This move ensures that Yemeni nationals (and individuals without nationality who last habitually resided in Yemen) currently residing in the United States may be eligible to apply for TPS.
For those unfamiliar, Temporary Protected Status (TPS) provides relief from removal for people from certain countries experiencing conditions like ongoing armed conflict, environmental disasters, or other situations that protect them from returning safely. Given the ongoing complex humanitarian crisis in Yemen, Yemeni nationals and residents are considered for TPS relief under the Immigration and Nationality Act.
With this extension and redesignation, Yemeni nationals and residents may be eligible to apply for TPS, provided they meet the necessary requirements. These include continuous residence in the United States since January 4, 2021, and continuous physical presence in the United States since March 4, 2021. They might also be required to undergo security and background checks.
Individuals with an existing TPS under Yemen’s designation who want to maintain their status must re-register for TPS in accordance with the notice published in the Federal Register. Unfortunately, those who have been convicted of a felony or two or more misdemeanors in the U.S., or who are subject to the mandatory bars to asylum are not eligible for TPS.
The decision to extend and redesignate Yemen for TPS emphasizes the U.S.’s constant commitment to humanitarian protection and the law. It ensures that eligible individuals from Yemen residing in the U.S. can live, work, and remain safe from unsafe conditions in their home country.
However, there are complexities involved, and it’s essential for those who wish to register or re-register for TPS to seek professional advice. As an experienced immigration attorney, I can assist you in navigating these complexities and help you understand and meet the necessary requirements to ensure your case is successful.
This article references the press release published on the official U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) website. For more details, you can access the original article here.
Disclaimer: This article is designed for general information only and is NOT legal advice. The information presented should not be construed to be formal legal advice nor the formation of a lawyer/client relationship. Please consult with an attorney for individual advice regarding your own situation.
