Philadelphia Temporary Protection Status Lawyer
Someone with temporary protected status (TPS) is not at risk of being deported while their country is on the designated list. However, approval is not automatic. You will need to prove that you qualify for this status, and you might need to appeal a negative decision. If you need help obtaining TPS, please contact Ellenberg Law Group today. Our Philadelphia temporary protected status lawyer can analyze whether you qualify and help with the application.
Benefits of Temporary Protected Status
Many countries have fallen victim to natural disasters or political instability. The United States might allow citizens of these countries to stay in the U.S. to live and work for the duration of the upheaval. This temporary protected status guarantees the safety of vulnerable citizens who will not be returned to a dangerous situation in their home countries.
This status allows individuals to stay and work in the United States without fear of being sent back to their home countries. Although TPS status might only apply for 6-18 months, the Department of Homeland Security can extend TPS designation for longer. Indeed, some people can spend years in the United States without risk of being sent back.
There are limits to TPS, however. For one, it doesn’t provide a path to either a green card (lawful permanent residence) or citizenship. For another, Homeland Security might revoke TPS designation for your country, which means you will need to go back, otherwise you would be in the United States illegally if you remained here.
If your country is on the TPS list, you can file an application. You will need to meet certain qualifications, such as proof that you are a citizen or habitual resident of the country with TPS status. You must also pass background and security clearances.
As of 2022, countries on the list include:
- Afghanistan
- El Salvador
- Haiti
- Honduras
- Myanmar
- Nepal
- Nicaragua
- Somalia
- Sudan
- Syria
- Ukraine
- Venezuela
- Yemen
Some people eligible for TPS nevertheless get denied for certain reasons, such as a criminal conviction or for failure to be continuously present in the United States. An attorney can help strategize ways of addressing these issues or find another way to stay in the U.S. Because temporary protected status might be the difference between life and death, we encourage anyone who thinks they are eligible to meet with an attorney.
Protecting You from Removal
Temporary protected status is a lifeline for foreign nationals whose home countries have fallen into chaos. Natural disasters, war, and political conflict threaten the well-being of countless people. The U.S. has helpfully stepped up to protect nationals of these countries with temporary protected status. This status can provide welcome peace of mind to those worried of being sent back to a dangerous place.
If you need assistance applying, or if the government has revoked TPS status, you should consult with a Philadelphia temporary protected status lawyer. Ellenberg Law Group has assisted with many applications and can assist gathering necessary information and/or documents. We can also discuss other options for staying in the U.S. which are more appropriate for your situation.