On August 3, 2021, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) published a notice in the Federal Register that extended the TPS registration periods during which individuals would be eligible to file initial (new) applications for Temporary Protected Status (TPS). The countries of Venezuela, Syria, and Burma were designated or re-designated for TPS in March 2021. Each designation provided for a 180-day registration period for first-time applicants. After reevaluation, DHS determined that limiting the registration period to 180 days put an unfair burden on individuals who are unable to file during that period but who otherwise remain eligible for TPS. Therefore, DHS extended the registration period for initial TPS applicants to be the entire 18-month period of each country’s TPS designation.
Extending the registration period does not extend or alter the expiration date of TPS, which will be the same regardless of the date of registration. But expanding the registration period does further the humanitarian purpose of TPS and is consistent with President Biden’s directives to Restore Faith in our Legal Immigration Systems (Executive Order 14012).
- The 18-month registration period for initial applications under the TPS designation of Venezuela now runs through Sept. 9, 2022.
- The 18-month registration period for initial applications under the TPS re-designation of Syria now runs through Sept. 30, 2022.
- The 18-month registration period for initial applications under the TPS designation of Burma (Myanmar) now runs through Nov. 25, 2022.
Individuals who believe they qualify for TPS are encouraged to consult with a T&S legal professional to evaluate their eligibility.