On January 12, 2023, the Secretary of the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Alejandro N. Mayorkas, announced that Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for Somalia is extended a further 18 months from March 18, 2023 through to September 17, 2024. TPS is also redesignated allowing additional Somali nationals (or those with no nationality that last habitually resided in Somalia) residing in the United States as of January 11, 2023, to initially apply for TPS if they meet all eligibility requirements.
The Extension and redesignation of TPS to Somalia is due to ongoing and worsening conditions of armed conflict and extraordinary and temporary conditions that prevent Somali nationals safely returning home. TPS is a temporary immigration status that grants eligible individuals from TPS designated countries to legally live and apply for work authorization in the United States.
“Through the extension and redesignation of Somalia for Temporary Protected Status, the United States will be able to offer safety and protection to Somalis who may not be able to return to their country, due to ongoing conflict and the continuing humanitarian crisis,” said Secretary of Homeland Security Alejandro N. Mayorkas. “We will continue to offer our support to Somali nationals through this temporary form of humanitarian relief.”
If you or somebody you know qualifies for TPS please contact one of our attorneys for information on timelines, procedures, required documents and other criteria for renewal and initial applications.