Due to the outbreak of Ebola virus disease in West Africa, Secretary of Homeland Security Jeh Johnson announced the designation of Liberia, Guinea, and Sierra Leone for Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for 18 months, beginning Friday, November 21, 2014. Eligible nationals from these three countries who are residing in the United States as of November 20, 2014 may apply for TPS with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). TPS is a temporary immigration benefit that does not lead to lawful permanent resident status or give any other immigration status.

Foreign nationals who are granted TPS status:

• Are not removable from the United States;

• Can obtain an employment authorization document (EAD); and,

• May be granted travel authorization.

The 180-day TPS registration period begins November 21, 2014 and runs through May 20, 2015. Applicants must meet all eligibility requirements, and must apply within the 180-day window. For complete information and application procedures please visit www.uscis.gov/tps.