As published in the Federal Register today, the initial registration period for Temporary Protected Status (TPS) designation was extended for Guinea, Liberia, and Sierra Leone nationals currently living in the United States.  Specifically, the initial registration period previously ran from November 21, 2014 to May 20, 2015; however, through the Federal Register notice, the registration period is now extended for an additional 90 days, from May 21, 2015 to August 18, 2015.  This action was taken after the Secretary of Homeland Security, Jeh Johnson, determined that affected individuals required more time to submit their applications.  Individuals who submitted applications after the May 20, 2015 deadline may now resubmit their complete applications by August 18, 2015.

Individuals who are granted TPS benefits cannot be removed from the United States on grounds that the U.S. government has determined that conditions in their home country are unsafe.  Individuals holding TPS may make a separate application to obtain an employment authorization document (EAD) to work in the United States, and they obtain travel authorization to travel outside the United States.  The granting of TPS does not, however, result in or lead to permanent resident status.  Individuals with a criminal background or who pose a threat to national security are not eligible for TPS.