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New TPS - Temporary Protected Status Designation for Lebanese Nationals Amid Ongoing Crisis
In response to the ongoing conflict and humanitarian crisis in Lebanon, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has announced new immigration relief measures for Lebanese nationals currently residing in the United States. These measures, including the designation of Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for Lebanon, provide temporary protections for individuals unable to return to their home country safely.
What is Temporary Protected Status (TPS)?
TPS is a temporary immigration status granted to nationals of designated countries experiencing ongoing armed conflict, natural disasters, or other extraordinary and temporary conditions. This designation allows individuals from these countries to remain in the United States temporarily, without fear of deportation, as long as they meet the eligibility criteria. In addition, TPS beneficiaries can apply for work authorization, enabling them to legally work in the U.S. for the duration of their TPS status.
Lebanon has now been designated for TPS for an 18-month period, due to the deteriorating conditions in the region, including the conflict along the Israel-Lebanon border. This designation allows eligible Lebanese nationals to live and work in the U.S. while conditions in their home country remain unsafe.
Eligibility for TPS for Lebanese Nationals
To qualify for TPS under this new designation, Lebanese nationals, or individuals without nationality who last habitually resided in Lebanon, must meet the following criteria:
Continuous Residence: Individuals must have been continuously residing in the United States since October 16, 2024. Those who arrived after this date will not be eligible for TPS.
Application Process: Eligible individuals will need to file Form I-821, Application for Temporary Protected Status, with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). Additionally, they can apply for an Employment Authorization Document (EAD) by filing Form I-765.
It is important to understand that TPS is a temporary benefit and does not lead to permanent residency or U.S. citizenship. Once the TPS designation for Lebanon ends, individuals must either leave the U.S. or find another legal pathway to remain in the country.
Deferred Enforced Departure (DED) for Lebanese Nationals
In addition to TPS, Lebanese nationals may also benefit from Deferred Enforced Departure (DED), a program that offers temporary protection from deportation for certain foreign nationals. President Joe Biden previously announced DED for Lebanese nationals in July 2024, granting individuals who were in the U.S. by that time the opportunity to remain until January 25, 2026.
Special Student Relief for Lebanese F-1 Visa Holders
DHS has also introduced Special Student Relief for Lebanese nationals holding F-1 student visas. This relief allows eligible students to:
Apply for work authorization.
Work more hours during school sessions.
Reduce their course load while maintaining their F-1 status.
This measure is intended to help Lebanese students facing financial hardship due to the conflict in Lebanon. The Special Student Relief provisions will remain in place through the duration of the DED period, offering much-needed flexibility for those affected by the crisis.
The combination of TPS, DED, and Special Student Relief provides critical protections for Lebanese nationals who are currently in the United States and unable to return to Lebanon safely. The DHS estimates that approximately 11,000 Lebanese nationals will be eligible for TPS and DED, while an additional 1,740 F-1 students may qualify for Special Student Relief.
What Should Affected Individuals Do?
If you are a Lebanese national currently residing in the United States and believe you may be eligible for TPS, DED, or Special Student Relief, it is important to take the following steps:
Stay Informed: Monitor DHS announcements and the forthcoming Federal Register Notice for detailed instructions on how to apply for TPS and work authorization.
Gather Documentation: Ensure you have proof of continuous residence in the U.S. since October 16, 2024, as this is a key eligibility requirement for TPS.
Consult with an Immigration Attorney: If you are unsure about your eligibility or how to proceed, it is recommended that you consult with an immigration attorney. They can provide guidance on your options and help you navigate the application process.
Patricia Elizee is the managing partner of the Elizee Law Firm, an immigration law firm located at 1110 Brickell Avenue, Suite 315, Miami, Florida 33131. Phone: 305-371-8846. The law firm was established in 2012. Ms. Elizee earned her Juris Doctorate at the University of Miami School of Law and her Masters in Law from the University of Washington School of Law.
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