Temporary Protected Status (TPS) in North Carolina: What You Need to Know

Temporary Protected Status (TPS) in North Carolina: What You Need to Know

Temporary Protected Status (TPS) is a crucial immigration program that offers refuge to individuals from designated countries experiencing crises, such as armed conflict, environmental disasters, or other extraordinary conditions. For many residents and immigrants in North Carolina, understanding TPS is vital for navigating legal statuses and ensuring their safety and stability.

North Carolina, with its diverse population, is home to many TPS beneficiaries. If you or someone you know is seeking TPS or wants to learn more about it, here's what you need to know.

What is Temporary Protected Status (TPS)?

TPS is a humanitarian program established by Congress that allows eligible nationals of certain countries to live and work in the United States for a limited period. This status is granted when the U.S. Secretary of Homeland Security determines that conditions in a specific country are unsafe for its citizens. Once designated, TPS protections usually last for 6 to 18 months and can be renewed based on the country's conditions.

Eligibility Requirements

To qualify for TPS in North Carolina, applicants must meet specific criteria:

  • Be a national of a TPS-designated country or a person without nationality who last habitually resided in the proper country.
  • File for TPS during the designated open registration period.
  • Be continuously physically present in the U.S. since the effective date of TPS designation for the country.
  • Not have been convicted of any felony or certain misdemeanors.
  • Not pose a threat to national security or public safety.

Application Process

The application process for TPS in North Carolina involves several steps:

  1. Gather necessary documentation, including proof of identity, nationality, and continuous presence in the country.
  2. Complete Form I-821, the Application for Temporary Protected Status.
  3. Submit Form I-765 if you wish to obtain a work permit.
  4. Pay the required fees or request a fee waiver if eligible.
  5. Mail the completed forms and supporting documents to the appropriate USCIS address.

Once the application is submitted, the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) will review it and send a notification regarding approval or denial. It is essential to keep copies of all documents submitted for your records.

Current TPS Designations

As of October 2023, several countries continue to have TPS designations, including:

  • Nicaragua
  • Haiti
  • Venezuela
  • Somalia
  • Syria

These designations may change; it's crucial to stay informed about new or renewed TPS designations, especially if you have a connection to these countries.

Benefits of TPS

Holding TPS provides significant benefits:

  • Protection from deportation: TPS holders cannot be removed from the U.S. while their status is valid.
  • Work authorization: Eligible individuals can apply for a work permit, allowing them to work legally in the U.S.
  • Travel benefits: TPS holders may be allowed to travel outside the U.S. using advance parole, which requires a separate application.

Maintaining TPS Status

To maintain TPS status, beneficiaries must re-register during each re-registration period and continue to meet eligibility requirements. Staying updated on deadlines and any changes to TPS rules is essential for beneficiaries in North Carolina.

Legal Assistance

Navigating the complexities of the TPS process can be challenging. Seeking legal assistance from immigration attorneys or nonprofit organizations in North Carolina can significantly benefit applicants in understanding their rights, eligibility, and the application process.

In conclusion, TPS is a vital program for individuals from crisis-stricken countries to find safety and stability in the U.S. Knowing the requirements, application process, and benefits of TPS is crucial for building a secure future in North Carolina.