Temporary Protected Status Extended for Nationals of Nepal

The U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has extended the temporary protected status (TPS) designation of Nepal for an additional 18 months, to June 24, 2018. This TPS designation was granted initially in the wake of the devastating earthquakes that occurred in 2015. Please see our July 9, 2015 article, Nepal Designated for Temporary Protected Status for more information about the initial grant of TPS for Nepal. Nationals of Nepal who have been granted TPS must apply between October 26, 2016 and December 27, 2016 to extend that designation. Information and instructions for re-registering can be found on the USCIS TPS page.

Temporary Protected Status

TPS allows nationals of designated countries to remain in the United States for a specified period of time, due to conditions in their respective home countries that would prevent a safe return. The types of conditions that can give rise to a TPS designation include: armed conflicts, environmental disasters, epidemics, earthquakes, and other extraordinary, temporary conditions. Individuals who are granted TPS are protected against removal (deportation) from the U.S., and are eligible to apply for work and travel authorization. The TPS period is temporary, and does not lead to a permanent immigration status.

TPS Extended Until June 24, 2018

The TPS designation for Nepal has been extended to June 24, 2018. If the country conditions do not sufficiently improve by that time, the DHS will have the discretion to extend the duration of the TPS designation again. If this occurs, stakeholders must be mindful of the need to reregister and, in most cases, apply to renew work authorization.

Conclusion

The United States has a proud tradition of offering humanitarian relief to foreign nationals during emergency situations. The 2015 earthquakes in Nepal were particularly devastating, and this move by the DHS should offer at least a modicum of relief and protection to those who are unable to safely return home.

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