Experienced Seattle Temporary Protected Status Attorney

Last updated on May 26, 2026

The terms asylum and temporary protected status (TPS) are often used interchangeably. While both of these immigration processes protect individuals from persecution, war and other dangers, they are distinct. Asylum applies to individual cases, whereas temporary protected status applies to people from certain nations. While holding TPS, individuals can legally reside in the U.S. and may obtain an Employment Authorization Document (EAD) to work legally. TPS holders are also protected from deportation as long as they maintain their TPS status.

At ERM Immigration Law, PLLC, our Seattle immigration lawyers have a wealth of experience handling temporary protected status cases. Since the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) handles TPS cases, the process can be technical. Let us help you get through every step. Call [NAP PHONE] to arrange an appointment with our team and start your application.

What Is Temporary Protected Status?

TPS may be awarded to migrants from countries where there is ongoing conflict or other dangerous scenarios. Once a country has been granted TPS status, individuals already in the U.S. who were expected to return to a TPS nation may be permitted to stay in the U.S.

The laws surrounding TPS can be complex. An experienced immigration attorney can clarify the rules for you.

When Can Individuals Apply?

An individual may be able to extend their stay in the U.S. on the basis of TPS if:

• That person has been continuously present in the U.S. since the designation.
• They are a national or permanent resident of that TPS nation.
• They do not have citizenship elsewhere but have resided in a TPS nation for a long time.
• They have no criminal record and pose no legitimate threat to national security.
• They have filed during the open initial registration or re-registration period.

TPS is typically awarded for between six and 18 months.

Application Process: What, Where And When To File

The process of applying to stay in the U.S. can be complex. The application process involves submitting specific forms and evidence of nationality and presence in the country. Applicants must also pay the required fees or request a fee waiver, if eligible.

Moreover, USCIS may ask you to provide your biometrics at the Application Support Center. You must attend this to avoid a denial due to abandonment of the application. Additionally, you may need to provide additional documents to further establish your eligibility for TPS.

As for the location and date for submitting your filing, the instructions vary. It is highly recommended that you check your country’s specific webpage on the USCIS site for accurate guidance. Submitting late or filing with the incorrect processor can complicate your application.

Why Are Some Nations Given Temporary Protected Status?

Any nation can be designated TPS if there are immediate dangers to residents of that country. The U.S. government may consider awarding TPS if the following factors are present:

• Armed conflicts – TPS is often awarded if a nation is undergoing armed conflict or a civil war.
• Natural disasters – TPS may also be awarded if a nation has experienced or is currently experiencing natural disasters that cause a threat to life.

The decision to grant TPS is at the full discretion of the Secretary of Homeland Security. As of now, USCIS recognizes these countries currently designated for TPS:

• El Salvador
• Ethiopia
• Haiti
• Lebanon
• Somalia
• South Sudan
• Sudan
• Syria
• Ukraine

This designation also covers eligible individuals from Venezuela and Yemen. If you have further questions about the TPS application process, reach out to ERM Immigration Law, PLLC. We’ll provide insights into your concerns.