The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) on Friday announced an 18-month designation of Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for Ethiopia.

Key Points:

  • The designation will allow Ethiopian nationals and individuals without nationality who last resided in Ethiopia to obtain TPS if they meet eligibility requirements and can show continuous residence in the U.S. as of Oct. 20, 2022.
  • Individuals who attempt to travel to the U.S. after Oct. 20, 2022, will not be eligible for TPS.
  • The 18-month designation will take effect on the date the notice is published to the Federal Register; the notice will give instructions for applying for TPS and an Employment Authorization Document (EAD).
  • Eligible applicants must file an application for TPS with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) within the registration period as determined by the notice’s publication in the Federal Register.

Additional Information: The decision to add Ethiopia under TPS was made due to conflict-related violence and a humanitarian crisis involving severe food shortages, flooding, drought and displacements, DHS said. BAL will provide additional information as it becomes available.

This alert has been provided by BAL U.S. Practice group. For additional information, please contact berryapplemanleiden@bal.com.

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