Recently, Secretary of Homeland Security Alejandro N. Mayorkas announced the extension and redesignation of Yemen for TPS from September 4, 2024, to March 3, 2026, due to the severe conditions in Yemen. Temporary Protected Status (TPS) is a designation given by the United States to nationals of certain countries experiencing ongoing armed conflict, environmental disasters, or other extraordinary conditions that temporarily prevent safe return. TPS allows individuals from these countries to live and work in the U.S. for a designated period. To learn more about Yemen’s recent TPS redesignation and how it may affect you, read this blog and contact a New York immigration lawyer from the Lightman Law Firm today.
Why Was Yemen’s TPS Extended and Redesigned?
The decision to extend and redesignate Yemen for TPS was made after careful consultation with various interagency partners. The ongoing armed conflict, severe limitations on civilians’ access to essential resources like water, food, and medical care, and the country’s brink of economic collapse all contribute to the unsafe conditions for return. Secretary Mayorkas highlighted that these measures will allow Yemeni nationals in the U.S. to remain and work until conditions improve in their home country.
Who Is Eligible Under the New TPS Redesignation for Yemen?
The redesignation of Yemen for TPS allows an estimated 1,700 Yemeni nationals (and individuals without nationality who last resided in Yemen) who have been continuously residing in the U.S. since July 2, 2024, to apply for TPS. Additionally, approximately 2,300 current beneficiaries can retain TPS through March 3, 2026, provided they meet the eligibility requirements.
What Are the Key Dates and Application Procedures?
Initial Applications: Yemeni nationals who qualify under the redesignation can file initial TPS applications from July 10, 2024, through March 3, 2026.
Re-registration for Current Beneficiaries: Those currently under TPS must re-register between July 10, 2024, and September 9, 2024, to extend their status and employment authorization through March 3, 2026.
The Federal Register notice outlines the eligibility criteria, timelines, and detailed procedures for both new applicants and current beneficiaries. It includes information on how to re-register, renew Employment Authorization Documents (EADs), and submit initial applications for TPS and EADs.
What About Employment and Student Relief?
The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has issued a Special Student Relief notice for F-1 nonimmigrant students from Yemen. This allows eligible students to request employment authorization, work more hours while school is in session, and reduce their course load while maintaining F-1 status through the TPS period.
What Happens If I Have a Pending Application?
For individuals with pending TPS applications or related EAD applications as of July 10, 2024, there is no need to reapply. If approved, their status will be extended to March 3, 2026, and they will receive EADs valid for the same period.
