TPS Visa
Temporary Protected Status (TPS) is a temporary humanitarian relief program that allows eligible nationals of designated countries to remain in the U.S. when conditions in their home country prevent safe return (such as armed conflict, natural disasters, or extraordinary circumstances). TPS is not a permanent status, but it provides lawful presence and work authorization while the designation is in effect.
Who is the Visa for?
Nationals of countries designated for TPS by the U.S. government.
Individuals without nationality who last habitually resided in a TPS-designated country.
Eligibility Requirements
Must be a national of (or habitual resident in) a TPS-designated country.
Must have continuously resided in the U.S. since the date specified for that country’s designation.
Must have been continuously physically present in the U.S. since the effective date of designation.
Must file Form I-821 (Application for Temporary Protected Status) during the open registration/re-registration period.
Must not have disqualifying criminal convictions or security-related bars.
Visa Duration
Duration: 6–18 months
Extensions: If unsafe conditions persist
Re-registration: Required to keep TPS
Processing Time:
Varies depending on volume of applications and USCIS service center.
Work permits (EADs) are typically processed in a few months, with automatic extensions often announced for re-registrants.
OpenSphere Services:
Country designation & eligibility assessment
Petition drafting (Form I-821 & evidence preparation)
EAD & travel document application support
End-to-end guidance through re-registration and status maintenance
