Temporary Protected Status for Venezuelans Extended

On July 11, 2022, the Department of Homeland Security announced the extension of Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for Venezuelan citizens. Venezuelan TPS had previously been authorized until September 9, 2022, and it has now been extended from September 10, 2022 through March 10, 2024. If your TPS renewal is granted, you should receive a new work permit that is valid until March 10, 2024. For additional background on Venezuelan TPS, please see our previous post here.

When Should I File My TPS Renewal?

If you already have Venezuelan TPS, you must file your renewal between September 8, 2022, and November 7, 2022. If you fail to do so without good cause, you may lose your TPS status and the accompanying work authorization.

What Do I Do If My First TPS Application Is Still Pending?

If you applied for TPS previously and your application is still pending, then you do not need to do anything at this time. If USCIS approves your application, you will be granted TPS through March 10, 2024, just like someone applying to renew their TPS.

What Do I Do Now That My Work Permit Has Expired?

USCIS has automatically extended Employment Authorization Documents (EADs) related to Venezuelan TPS for one year, through September 9, 2023. If your employer asks, you can show them the USCIS website extending your EAD.

Is It Too Late to File for TPS for the First Time Now?

If you did not file your initial TPS application before September 9, 2022, you may still be able to qualify for a “Late Initial Filing” if you meet all of the TPS requirements and fit into one of the two categories below:

• During the initial registration period (which ended September 9, 2022), you met one of the following conditions, and you register for TPS while the condition still exists or within 60 days of the condition ending
  • You were in lawful nonimmigrant status, were granted voluntary departure status, or any relief from removal
  • You had an application for change of status, adjustment of status, asylum, voluntary departure, or any relief from removal which was pending or subject to further review or appeal
  • You were a parolee or had a pending request for re-parole
  • You are a spouse of an individual who is currently eligible for TPS

OR

• During the initial registration period, were a child of an individual who is currently eligible for TPS.

If you wish to learn more about re-registering for TPS or filing a late initial TPS application, please do not hesitate to contact our office at (312) 427-6163.