On March 9, 2021, after much anticipation, the Secretary of Homeland Security (“DHS”) designated Venezuela for Temporary Protected Status (“TPS”). The designation of Venezuela for TPS finally comes as a sign of relief and hope for the thousands of Venezuelans currently in the U.S., that have had to flee their home after years of financial turmoil, political instability, essential services shortages and increasing violence and crimes.  Although Venezuelans in the U.S. can now have a sense of security in the U.S. with the protections afforded by TPS, it is imperative that a timely application is filed and most importantly, the application needs to be filed correctly. Also, it must be noted that not all Venezuelans will qualify for TPS and it needs to be filed within a specific time frame in order to fully benefit from the temporary protection afforded to its beneficiaries. If you are from Venezuela and you are currently present in the U.S., you need to know the following things:

The TPS registration period for Venezuela nationals, begins on March 9, 2021, and ends on September 5, 2021. That is, you will have 180 days to file your application for TPS. It is extremely important to file your application on or before September 5, 2021. Failure to do so, will have devastating effects in your immigration situation, since there are very limited situations in which USCIS will exercise discretion and allow a late filing. 

TPS is available to you if you were born in Venezuela. Even if you were not born in Venezuela, you might still benefit from TPS if you last habitually resided in Venezuela. 

You need to demonstrate that you have resided continuously in the U.S. since March 8,2021, and that you were physically present in the U.S. on March 9, 2021, to apply for TPS.

TPS protects you from deportation during the duration of the TPS designation for Venezuela. Individuals who apply for TPS can also apply for an Employment Authorization Document (EAD) concurrently. With the EAD you will be able to work in the U.S. legally and obtain a driver’s license. 

If you are interested in applying for TPS or believe you might be eligible to apply for TPS, it is recommended to seek the assistance of a qualified immigration attorney to ensure eligibility and the timely filing of your application. If you would like more information on whether you or a loved one, qualifies for TPS, and what steps are needed before the deadline, contact Rodriguez Figueroa Law today online or at (407) 634-4757