The landscape of immigration regulations is ever-evolving. It’s crucial for immigrants, especially those from volatile regions, to stay updated with the latest changes. Please continue reading to learn more about the recent announcements related to Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for Cameroon nationals and what they mean for those affected.
What’s the Latest News on TPS for Cameroon nationals?
On a recent date, Secretary of Homeland Security Alejandro N. Mayorkas made a significant announcement regarding the Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for individuals from Cameroon. The key takeaways are:
Extension and redesignation of TPS for Cameroon for 18 months: This change is effective from December 8, 2023, to June 7, 2025, because of the unstable conditions in Cameroon.
Why This Extension and Redesignation?
The primary reasons cited include:
- Ongoing armed conflict.
- Human rights violations.
- General extraordinary and temporary circumstances that make it perilous for individuals to return to Cameroon.
What About Cameroonian Students in the US?
There’s good news for students as well. A Special Student Relief notice has been announced for F-1 nonimmigrant students from Cameroon. What does this entail?
- The opportunity to request employment authorization.
- The possibility to work more hours even while school is ongoing.
- The flexibility to reduce their course load but still maintain their F-1 status during the TPS period.
How Many Are Benefitted by This Move?
The numbers tell a significant story:
- About 2,090 current beneficiaries can keep their TPS till June 7, 2025, given they continue to satisfy the TPS eligibility conditions.
- An additional estimated 7,900 Cameroonian nationals can apply for TPS given they meet certain residency and presence conditions.
Who is Not Eligible for the TPS?
Individuals arriving after October 5, 2023, will not qualify for the TPS under the Cameroonian designation.
What About Re-registration?
Current beneficiaries under Cameroon’s TPS have a window from October 10, 2023, to December 9, 2023, to re-register. This step is vital to retain their TPS and work authorization in the US.
There’s also a provision for an automatic extension of EADs, previously issued under Cameroon’s TPS designation, until December 7, 2024, for those who might not receive a renewed EAD promptly.
What Happens to Pending Applications?
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) will process applications filed under prior TPS designations for Cameroon. If you have a pending application as of October 10, 2023, there’s no need for reapplication.
Can New Applicants Submit an Application?
Yes, under the redesignation of Cameroon, eligible individuals can submit a new Form I-821 during the registration period that spans from October 10, 2023, to June 7, 2025.
The recent TPS updates for Cameroonians offer a beacon of hope for many, and for those seeking more information or assistance, a consultation with an experienced immigration lawyer is highly recommended.
