U.S. Extends Temporary Protected Status for Ethiopia Amid Ongoing Crisis

Secretary of Homeland Security Alejandro N. Mayorkas has declared an extension and redesignation of Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for Ethiopia, lasting 18 months from June 13, 2024, to December 12, 2025. This decision stems from the persisting armed conflict and challenging conditions within Ethiopia, rendering it unsafe for individuals to return. The announcement, outlined in the Federal Register, delineates the process for both new applicants and current beneficiaries to register for TPS under Ethiopia’s extended and redesigned status.

In tandem with this declaration, a Special Student Relief notice is issued for F-1 nonimmigrant students from Ethiopia, granting eligible students certain employment privileges and flexibility in maintaining their F-1 status during the TPS designation period.

Mayorkas emphasized the role of TPS in safeguarding individuals already residing in the U.S. from deportation when conditions in their home country are unsafe for return. The extension allows approximately 2,300 current beneficiaries to retain their TPS status through December 2025, provided they re-register and meet eligibility criteria.

Additionally, the redesignation permits an estimated 12,800 more Ethiopian nationals to apply for TPS, given they meet eligibility requirements and arrived in the U.S. by April 11, 2024. Re-registration for current beneficiaries is open from April 15 to June 14, 2024, ensuring continuity of TPS and employment authorization.

The validity of Employment Authorization Documents (EADs) issued under Ethiopia’s initial TPS designation is extended through June 12, 2025, acknowledging potential delays in processing new EADs. USCIS will continue processing pending applications under the previous TPS designation, granting TPS and EADs through December 2025 upon approval.

For those without TPS status, the initial registration period runs from April 15, 2024, to December 12, 2025. Eligible individuals can submit Form I-821 for TPS consideration and apply for related benefits such as EADs and travel authorization.

The Federal Register notice comprehensively outlines eligibility criteria, timelines, and application procedures for both current beneficiaries and new applicants seeking TPS under Ethiopia’s extension and redesignation.

Rosina Stambaugh

Rosina C. Stambaugh, founder of The Law Office of Rosina C. Stambaugh in York, brings a wealth of expertise to immigration law. With a focus on removal defense, Ms. Stambaugh has successfully litigated cases across various Immigration Courts, the Board of Immigration Appeals, and the Third Circuit Court of Appeals, offering comprehensive support to clients facing diverse immigration challenges. She also represents individuals and families applying for affirmative benefits with U.S. Citizenship & Immigration Services.