Venezuelans residing in the United States as of March 8, 2021 now qualify to apply for Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for 18 months up through September 2022. This will allow otherwise ineligible Venezuelans to remain in the United States due to “temporary” conditions in Venezuela that would prevent a safe return home. Individuals who are granted TPS are protected against removal (deportation) from the U.S. In addition, they are eligible to apply for work permits and travel authorization.
It is important to note that the TPS for Venezuelans period itself is temporary and does not lead to a permanent immigration status.
For years Venezuela has been engrossed in a political and economic crisis, including dangerously severe living conditions marked by widespread hunger, malnutrition, crime, a growing influence and presence of privately funded, non-state armed groups, repression and a decaying infrastructure. In essence, Venezuela is unable to protect its own citizens.
Eligibility Requirements
To qualify for TPS for Venezuelans under this designation, an individual must be:
- A national of Venezuela or, if the person has no nationality, s/he must have last habitually resided in Venezuela.
- Must have been continuously residing in the United States as of March 8, 2021, and must have remained “continuously physically present” in the U.S. since March 9, 2021.
The filing deadline is September 5, 2021.
As of October 2020, the US granted TPS benefits to approximately 411,000 people from 10 countries. The conditional status currently shields approved applicants from El Salvador, Haiti, Honduras, Nepal, Nicaragua, Somalia, South Sudan, Sudan, Syria, Yemen and now there’s also a TPS for Venezuelans.
Our offices are able to assist in preparing and submitting your TPS application. If you or someone you know believe you may qualify, contact our offices today for a free consultation.
For more information on Venezuela’s TPS designation, please click on the link below Temporary Protected Status Designated Country: Venezuela | USCIS
