TPS Granted to Yemeni nationals in the U.S.

The United States Department of Homeland Security has designated the Republic of Yemen for Temporary Protected Status. The status will last for 18 months, beginning September 3, 2015, and ending March 3, 2017.

Temporary Protected Status allows Yemeni nationals who are in the United States to remain here and obtain work authorization. Although the the Temporary Protected Status allows Yemenis to stay and work, it does not grant a path to permanent citizenship.

USCIS bestowed Temporary Protected Status on the Republic of Yemen because it is unsafe for its residents to return. Yemen is in the midst of a serious humanitarian crisis caused by civil war.  Many Arab and Muslim American organizations had formally requested the Temporary Protected Status because the ongoing civil conflict posed such serious danger.

"If Yemeni nationals visiting or living in the United States are required to return home during this ongoing crisis, their personal safety and lives would be put at risk," United States Representative Debbie Dingell said.

If an individual believes they may qualify for the Temporary Protected Status, they may apply within the 180 day registration period that begins on September 3, 2015 and ends on March 1, 2016. The Department of Homeland Security has also allowed Yemenis to apply for Employment Authorization Documents and travel authorization with the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services.