Temporary Protected Status (TPS) is a relief mechanism used by the United States to protect nationals from countries experiencing severe crises, such as armed conflict, environmental disasters, or extraordinary and temporary conditions that prevent safe return. TPS grants eligible individuals a temporary right to live and work in the U.S. without fear of deportation. Recently, Secretary Mayorkas announced an extension and redesignation of Ethiopia for TPS in the United States. Read this blog to learn more.
Who are the beneficiaries of the recent TPS extension for Ethiopia?
Ethiopia has recently been extended and redesignated for TPS due to ongoing armed conflict and other destabilizing factors. This extension covers the period from June 13, 2024, to December 12, 2025. The TPS extension allows approximately 2,300 current beneficiaries to maintain their status.
Additionally, the redesignation permits an estimated 12,800 additional Ethiopian nationals who are already in the United States as of April 11, 2024, and have continued to reside in the country, to apply for TPS.
What conditions prompted the extension and redesignation of TPS for Ethiopia?
Ethiopia is currently experiencing significant turmoil due to armed conflict, human rights abuses, and natural disasters, including droughts and floods. These crises have created urgent humanitarian needs and unsafe living conditions, justifying the need for continued protection under TPS for Ethiopian nationals residing in the U.S.
How does this affect Ethiopian F-1 nonimmigrant students in the U.S.?
Accompanying the TPS announcement is a Special Student Relief notice for F-1 nonimmigrant students from Ethiopia. This relief allows eligible students to work increased hours while school is in session and reduce their course load, helping them maintain their F-1 student status throughout the TPS designation period.
What are the registration requirements and deadlines?
Ethiopian nationals currently holding TPS must re-register during the designated 60-day period from April 15, 2024, to June 14, 2024, to retain their status and employment authorization document (EAD). New applicants must establish their residency in the U.S. as of April 11, 2024, and should file an initial application for TPS during the registration period running through December 12, 2025. During this period, applicants can also apply for an EAD and travel authorization.
What about pending applications and automatic EAD extensions?
The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) will continue processing pending applications filed under the previous TPS designation for Ethiopia. Importantly, DHS is automatically extending the validity of previously issued EADs through June 12, 2025, to avoid gaps in employment authorization for re-registrants.
