In a recent announcement, Secretary of Homeland Security Alejandro N. Mayorkas declared the extension and redesignation of Somalia for Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for an additional 18 months. This decision, which spans from September 18, 2024, to March 17, 2026, reflects the ongoing conditions in Somalia that make safe return impossible. Read on to learn more about this recent decision and how it may impact you. Here are some of the questions you may have:
Why Has Somalia Been Extended and Redesignated for TPS?
The extension and redesignation of Somalia for TPS stem from ongoing and severe conditions within the country. According to Secretary Mayorkas, Somalia continues to face armed conflict, widespread insecurity, and extraordinary and temporary conditions. These include:
- Ongoing Armed Conflict: Persistent violence and instability affecting civilian safety.
- Humanitarian Crises: Intense flooding, food insecurity, and disease outbreaks.
- Barriers to Aid: Significant challenges in delivering humanitarian aid to those in need.
These factors collectively prevent Somali nationals from safely returning to their home country, thereby justifying the need for continued protection under TPS.
Who Is Affected by This Announcement?
The parties affected by this announcement are as follows:
- Current TPS Beneficiaries: Approximately 600 Somali nationals already benefiting from TPS can extend their status through March 17, 2026. To do so, they must re-register during the 60-day re-registration period, from July 22, 2024, to September 20, 2024. Re-registering ensures they maintain their TPS and employment authorization.
- New Applicants: The redesignation allows an estimated 4,300 additional Somali nationals (or individuals without nationality who last resided in Somalia) to apply for TPS.
Eligibility requires:
- Establishing residence in the United States on or before July 12, 2024.
- Continuous residence in the U.S. since then.
What Are the Key Dates and Requirements?
- Re-Registration Period for Current Beneficiaries: July 22, 2024, to September 20, 2024.
- Initial Registration Period for New Applicants: July 22, 2024, to March 17, 2026.
Applicants must submit Form I-821, Application for Temporary Protected Status. They may also request an Employment Authorization Document (EAD) by submitting Form I-765, either concurrently with Form I-821 or separately later.
Importantly, the announcement also includes a Special Student Relief notice for F-1 nonimmigrant students from Somalia.
What If My EAD Expires Before I Receive a New One?
The Department of Homeland Security has automatically extended the validity of certain EADs issued under Somalia’s TPS designation through September 17, 2025. This provision ensures that individuals do not face gaps in employment authorization.
For those with pending Form I-821 or Form I-765 applications as of July 22, 2024, no re-filing is necessary. USCIS will continue processing these applications, and if approved, TPS and EADs will be valid through March 17, 2026.
If you’re affected by this announcement or are facing any other immigration-related matter, please don’t hesitate to contact a skilled New York City immigration lawyer from the Lightman Law Firm today.
