The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) recently announced that it is giving Lebanon Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for 18 months. This program offers short-term relief to people currently facing dangers in their home country. These may include ongoing war, natural disasters or other extraordinary events. This new TPS status, along with the Deferred Enforced Departure (DED) announced back in July, offers key protections to eligible Lebanese nationals.
What does this mean for you?
If you are eligible, a TPS status can:
- Protect you from deportation
- Allow you to apply for an employment authorization document (EAD)
- Allow you to apply for travel authorization
It’s important to note that TPS does not lead to permanent residency or citizenship. However, you can still explore and apply for other ways to stay in the U.S. legally, whether for a short time or permanently, depending on your situation.
To qualify for TPS, you must have lived in the U.S. since October 16, 2024. You’ll also need to meet other rules set by U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). According to their recent press release, the USCIS will soon publish more details about how to apply and what you need to do.
How is it different from Deferred Enforced Departure (DED)?
DED is also temporary protection that allows specific groups to stay in the United States when conditions in their home country are unsafe. Like TPS, it allows eligible people to stay in the U.S. without fear of deportation, apply for work authorization and request authorization to travel outside the U.S. However, it also does not directly lead to permanent residency.
The main difference between TPS and DED lies in who grants them and how they set the rules. The DHS grants TPS based on legal criteria, while the President directly authorizes DED with more flexible terms. It’s important to check the official USCIS website for the most current information or consult with an immigration attorney on which option would best fit your specific situation.
Protect your right to safety
Everyone deserves to live without fear. If dangerous conditions in your home country are preventing your return, there are ways to remain in the U.S. on humanitarian grounds. An immigration attorney can help you navigate these options and ensure a more stable future.