The Temporary Protected Status (TPS) program allows the U.S. government to offer protection to people from certain countries facing dangerous conditions, like war or natural disasters. Under the Biden administration, 17 countries are eligible for this protection. However, there are concerns the Trump administration will severely limit the program. As a result, President Biden is being encouraged to enact protections to the program.

For a country to qualify for TPS, the U.S. Secretary of Homeland Security must decide that conditions in that country are too dangerous for people to safely return. This could be due to things like ongoing fighting or a major disaster. People from those countries can apply for TPS, which gives them temporary protection from deportation and the ability to work in the U.S. There are currently hundreds of thousands of people in the U.S. with TPS protections.

During President Trump’s time in office, he tried to end TPS for several countries, which led to years of legal battles. Since then, some Republicans in Congress have tried to limit the program even more. One proposal suggested that Congress should approve TPS every year, but that bill did not move forward. Trump has promised to restrict TPS and other immigration programs and enact a mass deportation. As of now, no new laws have been made to protect TPS holders.

If you have questions about the Temporary Protected Status program or any other U.S. immigration issues, contact us. Our clients work directly with attorneys every step of the way to ensure they get expert advice.