TPS Updates: Why Designations and Re-Registration Matter

Temporary Protected Status provides crucial protection for nationals of designated countries. Missing re-registration deadlines can have serious consequences.

Current TPS Designations

Countries are designated for TPS due to ongoing armed conflict, environmental disaster, or other extraordinary conditions. Check the Federal Register for current designations and deadlines.

Re-Registration Requirements

• File during the announced window
• Submit required forms and fees
• Maintain continuous physical presence
• Remain eligible (no disqualifying bars)

Traveling with TPS: The New I-512T

Travel for TPS holders has recently changed. USICS established a new travel authorization document called Form I-512T, Authorization for Travel by a Noncitizen. When a TPS holder returns on this document, they are "inspected and admitted" (unlike the old Advance Parole "parole").

This subtle legal distinction is massive. An "admission" can cure a prior "Entry Without Inspection" (EWI), potentially opening a path to adjustment of status if the TPS holder later marries a US citizen. This is a critical strategic opportunity for TPS holders who originally entered the country illegally.

Late Re-Registration: Dont Miss the Window

When a country's TPS designation is extended, current beneficiaries must re-register during a specific 60-day window. Missing this window can lead to a loss of status. While USCIS accepts "late re-registration" for "good cause," you do not want to rely on their discretion. Set alarms for Federal Register notices regarding your country.

Does TPS Lead to a Green Card?

Directly? No. TPS is "temporary" by name and statute. It does not have a direct line to permanent residence. However, it can be a bridge. By maintaining legal status, TPS holders can pivot to other options (Family petitions, Employment sponsorship) that may arise. The key is that TPS prevents the accrual of "unlawful presence," keeping future doors open.

Dual Status Strategy

Strategic lawyers typically recommend holding TPS *while* pursuing other options. Example: You have a pending Asylum case. You also get TPS.

If the Asylum case is referred to court, the Judge might "Admin Close" (pause) the case because you have TPS and are not a priority for deportation. This allows you to stay indefinitely without the risk of an asylum denial, while keeping the asylum claim alive as a backup if TPS ends. This "status stacking" is key to long-term survival.

Adjustment from TPS (6th and 9th Circuits)

In some jurisdictions (jurisdictions change with case law), being granted TPS is considered an "admission," allowing you to adjust status (get a Green Card) via an employer or spouse without leaving the US, even if you originally entered illegally. However, the Supreme Court (*Sanchez v. Mayorkas*) limited this. Now, the new I-512T travel document is the workaround—traveling on it "cures" the illegal entry.

What if my country's designation ends?

If the Secretary of DHS terminates a country's designation, TPS holders revert to the immigration status they held prior (which is often undocumented). You would then be subject to deportation unless you have found another lawful status in the meantime.

Can I apply for Asylum and TPS at the same time?

Yes, and you should. They are independent tracks. You can hold TPS status while your Asylum case is pending. If Asylum is denied, you still have TPS. If TPS ends, you still have your Asylum claim.

Disclaimer: This article is for general information only and is not legal advice. Every case is fact-specific. For legal advice, consult a licensed attorney.