DHS Announces Temporary Protected Status – Afghanistan

The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) announced today the designation of Afghanistan for Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for 18 months. Only individuals who are already residing in the United States as of March 15, 2022, will be eligible for TPS.

“This TPS designation will help to protect Afghan nationals who have already been living in the United States from returning to unsafe conditions. Under this designation, TPS will also provide additional protections and assurances to trusted partners and vulnerable Afghans who supported the U.S. military, diplomatic, and humanitarian missions in Afghanistan over the last 20 years,” said Secretary Mayorkas in his statement.

The 18-month designation of TPS for Afghanistan will go into effect on the publication date of the forthcoming Federal Register notice. The Federal Register notice will provide instructions for applying for TPS and an Employment Authorization Document. Applications may be filed online.

When filing an initial TPS application or re-registering for TPS, applicants may also request an employment authorization document (EAD) by submitting a completed Form I-765, Request for Employment Authorization, at the time of filing Form I-821. Applicants may also file the Form I-765 request separately at a later date. Filing Form I-821 with Form I-765 may help applicants receive their work authorizations more promptly if you are eligible.

Applicants will be required to provide evidence to prove their identity and nationality, evidence to prove their date of entry into the United States, evidence to prove their residence in the United States and other documents to prove eligibility.

Please reach out to our lawyers if you believe you qualify for this new program and need assistance.

Photo Credit: Der Sudstern