Release Date: September 22, 2023

On September 21, 2023, the United States Secretary of Homeland Security, Alejandro N. Mayorkas, announced news that significantly affects the Venezuelan community in the United States: the extension and redesignation of Venezuela for Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for a period of 18 months.

What is TPS?

Temporary Protected Status (TPS) is a provisional immigration status granted to certain citizens of countries affected by dangerous conditions, such as armed conflict, natural disasters, or extraordinary circumstances that make their return unsafe.

Why has TPS been extended and redesignated for Venezuela?

According to Secretary Mayorkas, the decision was made after reviewing current conditions in Venezuela and after inter-institutional consultations. Venezuela is facing increasing instability and lack of security, exacerbated by humanitarian, security, political and environmental conditions. Therefore, an extension and redesignation of the TPS is justified.

Who is eligible?

The redesignation allows Venezuelan citizens who were in the United States before July 31, 2023 and meet other eligibility criteria, to apply for TPS and employment authorization documents.

How to apply?

United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) will continue to process pending applications submitted under the previous designation. If you are a new applicant, you must file a Form I-821 for TPS during the initial registration period that will be announced in a future Federal Register notice. Applicants can also file a Form I-765 for employment authorization.

Important to consider

It is crucial to understand that Venezuelans who arrived in the United States after July 31, 2023 are not eligible for this protection and will be expelled when it is determined that they have no legal basis to remain.

Scope of Impact

There are currently approximately 242,700 TPS beneficiaries under Venezuela's existing designation. With the redesignation, approximately 472,000 additional Venezuelan citizens could be eligible.

This redesignation represents a glimmer of hope and an opportunity for many Venezuelans in the United States. It is essential to be aware of upcoming notices and to ensure that you meet all the criteria and deadlines to benefit from this important decision.

For more information, keep an eye out for future Federal Register notices and visit the USCIS website.

If you have any questions or need legal advice, don't hesitate to consult with immigration law experts to better understand your options and rights.

Do you need more guidance?

At La Familia Multiservices we have a team of experts who can advise you on this topic and many more related to immigration and legal status. You're not alone in this process; count on us to guide you every step of the way.

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