The U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) announced that eligible Lebanese nationals in the United States can apply for Temporary Protected Status (TPS). This is in addition to the previously introduced Deferred Enforced Departure (DED) program for qualifying individuals from Lebanon. These programs allow approved individuals to apply for work permits.

Due to the ongoing conflict in the region, TPS for qualifying Lebanese nationals is available for 18 months. If granted TPS, individuals can stay in the U.S. as long as the situation at the Israel-Lebanon border continues. To qualify, Lebanese nationals and stateless individuals who lived in Lebanon must have been in the U.S. continuously since October 16, 2024. Those who arrived after this date are not eligible for TPS. More information will be provided in the Federal Register Notice expected soon, so individuals should wait to apply until after this notice is published.

The DED program for qualifying Lebanese individuals was announced in July 2024. This program allows individuals to apply for Employment Authorization Documents (EADs) that will be valid until January 25, 2026. Each EAD application will be considered individually. Lebanese nationals can apply for DED now.

Lebanese students with F-1 visas may also qualify for Special Student Relief, which allows them to request work permits, work more hours during school, and take fewer classes. If approved, their F-1 status will continue throughout the DED period.

Approximately 11,000 Lebanese nationals may be eligible for DED and TPS and an estimated 1,740 F-1 students from Lebanon may qualify for the Special Student Relief program.

If you have questions about TPS, DED, or Special Student Relief, please reach out to us. Our experienced attorneys are ready to assist with both family-based and employment-based immigration matters, ensuring you receive the right guidance for your specific situation.