TPS and DED Protection: Path to Permanent Residency
This bill aims to facilitate obtaining permanent residency in the U.S. for individuals holding Temporary Protected Status (TPS) or Deferred Enforced Departure (DED). The changes could affect thousands of people, providing them with stability and the opportunity to apply for citizenship, as well as enabling family reunification. The act also introduces new rules for reporting on the termination of TPS status for a given country.
Key points
Individuals with TPS or DED status since October 1, 2017, and continuously present in the U.S. for at least 3 years, can apply for permanent residency.
The bill facilitates return and application for permanent residency for individuals previously removed or who voluntarily departed the U.S. due to the expiration of TPS/DED status.
Close family members (spouses, parents, unmarried children) of individuals who obtain permanent residency can also apply for this status.
Applicants for permanent residency will receive work authorization in the U.S. while their application is pending.
The act designates Venezuela and Eritrea for Temporary Protected Status for an initial 18-month period from enactment.
After 5 years of obtaining permanent residency, these individuals may apply for naturalization, with a potential waiver of the English language requirement.
Expired
Additional Information
Print number: 117_HR_2064
Sponsor: Rep. Smith, Christopher H. [R-NJ-4]
Process start date: 2021-03-18