New Benefit: TPS for Lebanon

Today, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) announced new actions to provide temporary immigration reprieve to eligible Lebanese nationals currently in the United States and allowing them the opportunity to request work authorization. Included in today’s announcement are details related to the Deferred Enforced Departure (DED) for Lebanese nationals as previously announced in July, and a planned new Temporary Protected Status (TPS) designation for Lebanon.

Temporary Protected Status (TPS) is a humanitarian immigration program that allows individuals from designated countries to temporarily live and work in the United States when their home countries are affected by armed conflict, natural disasters, or other extraordinary and temporary conditions that prevent them from safely returning.

Following consultations with interagency partners, Secretary of Homeland Security Alejandro Mayorkas has announced the designation of Lebanon for Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for 18 months. This decision stems from the ongoing armed conflict and extraordinary and temporary conditions in Lebanon that currently prevent Lebanese nationals from safely returning to their country.

This TPS designation aims to provide temporary protection to Lebanese nationals (and individuals with no nationality who last habitually resided in Lebanon) who have been continuously residing in the United States since October 16, 2024. Those approved for TPS will be permitted to remain in the United States while diplomatic efforts continue to seek a lasting resolution for stability and security along the Israel-Lebanon border.

• Key Features:
  • Temporary Protection: TPS is not a pathway to permanent residency (green card).
  • Work Authorization: TPS beneficiaries are granted permission to work in the United States.
  • Travel Restrictions: Generally, travel outside the U.S. without prior permission will jeopardize TPS status.
  • Eligibility: Eligibility is based on factors like nationality, residency in the U.S. since October 16, 2024, and good moral character.

In Summary:

This DHS release announces that:

1. DED for Lebanese Nationals:
   • Confirms the previously announced Deferred Enforced Departure (DED) for Lebanese nationals.
   • Provides details on how Lebanese nationals covered by DED can apply for Employment Authorization Documents (EADs).
2. New TPS Designation for Lebanon:
   • Grants Temporary Protected Status (TPS) to eligible Lebanese nationals due to ongoing armed conflict in the country.
   • Allows eligible Lebanese nationals to remain in the U.S. and work legally.
   • Outlines the application process for TPS, which will be detailed in a forthcoming Federal Register Notice.
3. Special Student Relief for Lebanese Students:
   • Provides special considerations for F-1 nonimmigrant students from Lebanon, allowing them to work more hours and reduce course loads while maintaining their student status.

Important Note: This information is based on the provided press release. For the most up-to-date and accurate information, always refer to official DHS and USCIS websites.

Photo Credit: Nicolas Raymond