Washington, DC | www.adc.org | January 4, 2017 – The U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) announced the extension and redesignation Temporary Protective Status (TPS) for Yemeni nationals currently in the United States. The notice has been published in the Federal Register and can be read here.
The DHS Secretary has the authority to designate a country for TPS due to conditions in the country that temporarily prevent the country’s nationals from returning safely, such as armed conflict and natural disasters. During a designated period, individuals who are TPS beneficiaries:
- Are not removable from the United States by DHS.
- Can obtain an employment authorization document (EAD).
- May be granted travel authorization.
The American-Arab Anti-Discrimination Committee (ADC) filed a petition to DHS Secretary Jeh Johnson, requesting him to extend TPS protection for Yemeni nationals and reopen the registration period. DHS Secretary Johnson extended the designation of the Republic of Yemen for TPS for 18 months, from March 4, 2017, through September 3, 2018. The redesignation of Yemen for TPS is 18 months, effective March 4, 2017, through September 3, 2018.
The extension allows Yemeni nationals who are currently TPS beneficiaries to retain their TPS by re-registering during the 60 day period. The redesignation also allows additional Yemeni nationals to register for TPS for the first time and apply for Employment Authorization Documents that allow them to work.
Important Dates:
- 60 Day Re-registration period for Yemen Nationals who already have TPS: January 4, 2017 through March 6, 2017 (60 days)
- 180 Day Registration Period for Yemen Nationals who are applying for TPS for the first time: January 4, 2017 through July 3, 2018
Please visit the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) website for more information on how to apply for TPS.
The ADC Legal Department provides assistance with all immigration related matters, including assistance with TPS and asylum claims. Please note that an application for TPS does not affect an application for asylum or any other immigration benefit and vice versa. For questions about TPS, contact ADC Legal at 202-244-2990, or send an email to legal@adc.org