Secretary of Homeland Security Alejandro Mayorkas has designated Venezuela for Temporary Protected Status, according to a notice published in the Federal Register today.

Key Points:

  • The TPS designation runs for 18 months, through Sept. 9, 2022.
  • The 180-day registration period opens today and ends Sept. 5, 2021.
  • Only Venezuelan nationals who have continuously resided in the United States as of March 8, 2021, and have been continuously physically present in the U.S. since March 9, 2021, and who meet other eligibility requirements, may apply for TPS. They may also apply for Employment Authorization Documents (EADs) and for travel authorization.
  • Registration details are available in the Federal Register notice.

Additional Information: Under a Jan. 19 memorandum, Venezuelan nationals residing in the United States may also be eligible for Deferred Enforced Departure (DED) and DED-related employment authorization through July 20, 2022. Individuals who apply for and receive TPS and who are also covered by DED do not need to apply for EADs under both programs. Individuals who believe they are eligible for TPS are encouraged to apply during the registration period, even if they are also covered by DED, in case they do not qualify for late TPS filing once their DED has expired.

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

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