Temporary Protected Status and Deferred Enforced Departure

Changes from December 11, 2023 to May 28, 2024

This page shows textual changes in the document between the two versions indicated in the dates above. Textual matter removed in the later version is indicated with ~~red strikethrough~~ and textual matter added in the later version is indicated with blue.

Temporary Protected Status and Deferred
~~December 11, 2023~~May 28, 2024
Enforced Departure
Jill H. Wilson
When civil unrest, violence, or natural disasters erupt in countries around the world, concerns When civil unrest, violence, or natural disasters erupt in countries around the world, concerns
Analyst in Immigration Analyst in Immigration
arise over the ability of arise over the ability of certain foreign nationals present in the United States who are from those foreign nationals present in the United States who are from those
Policy Policy
countries to safely return. Provisions in the Immigration and Nationality Act (INA) provide for countries to safely return. Provisions in the Immigration and Nationality Act (INA) provide for

temporary protected status (TPS) and other forms of relief from removal under specified temporary protected status (TPS) and other forms of relief from removal under specified
circumstances. The Secretary of Homeland Security has the discretion to designate a country for circumstances. The Secretary of Homeland Security has the discretion to designate a country for

TPS for periods of 6 to 18 months and can extend these periods if the country continues to meet TPS for periods of 6 to 18 months and can extend these periods if the country continues to meet
the conditions for designation. A foreign national from a designated country who is granted TPS receives a registration the conditions for designation. A foreign national from a designated country who is granted TPS receives a registration
document and employment authorization for the duration of the TPS designation. document and employment authorization for the duration of the TPS designation.
In addition to TPS, there is another form of blanket relief from removal known as deferred enforced departure (DED). DED In addition to TPS, there is another form of blanket relief from removal known as deferred enforced departure (DED). DED
is a temporary, discretionary, administrative stay of removal granted to foreign nationals from designated countries. Unlike is a temporary, discretionary, administrative stay of removal granted to foreign nationals from designated countries. Unlike
TPS, a DED designation emanates from the President’s constitutional powers to conduct foreign relations and has no TPS, a DED designation emanates from the President’s constitutional powers to conduct foreign relations and has no
statutory basis. statutory basis.
There are currently 16 countries under TPS designations. As of There are currently 16 countries under TPS designations. As of ~~September 30, 2023~~March 31, 2024, approximately , approximately ~~697,530~~863,880 foreign nationals foreign nationals
from the following countries who were from the following countries who were ~~living~~ in the United States were protected by TPS: Afghanistan, Burma, Cameroon, in the United States were protected by TPS: Afghanistan, Burma, Cameroon,
El Salvador, Ethiopia, Haiti, Honduras, Nepal, Nicaragua, Somalia, South Sudan, Sudan, Syria, Ukraine, Venezuela, and El Salvador, Ethiopia, Haiti, Honduras, Nepal, Nicaragua, Somalia, South Sudan, Sudan, Syria, Ukraine, Venezuela, and
Yemen. Yemen. ~~Certain Liberians~~In addition, certain Palestinians, Liberians, and residents of Hong Kong living in the United States currently maintain relief under DED. and residents of Hong Kong living in the United States currently maintain relief under DED.
There is ongoing debate about whether foreign nationals who have been living in the United States for long periods of time There is ongoing debate about whether foreign nationals who have been living in the United States for long periods of time
with TPS or DED should have a pathway to lawful permanent resident (LPR) status. Two bills that would have provided LPR with TPS or DED should have a pathway to lawful permanent resident (LPR) status. Two bills that would have provided LPR
status to certain TPS and DED recipients passed the House in the 117th Congress; the Senate did not take actionstatus to certain TPS and DED recipients passed the House in the 117th Congress; the Senate did not take action on either. . Various bills Various bills
related to TPS and DED have been introduced in the 118th Congress. These bills include proposals to designate additional related to TPS and DED have been introduced in the 118th Congress. These bills include proposals to designate additional
countries, provide additional benefits to TPS or DED recipients, or provide for LPR status, while others would restrict countries, provide additional benefits to TPS or DED recipients, or provide for LPR status, while others would restrict
individual eligibility for TPS and limit DHS authority to extend TPS designations. individual eligibility for TPS and limit DHS authority to extend TPS designations.
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Background
Federal law provides that all foreign nationals (Federal law provides that all foreign nationals (aliens1) attempting to enter the United States must 1) attempting to enter the United States must
do so pursuant to the Immigration and Nationality Act (INA). The INA allows for the admission do so pursuant to the Immigration and Nationality Act (INA). The INA allows for the admission
of (1) immigrants, who are admitted to the United States permanently,2 and (2) nonimmigrants, of (1) immigrants, who are admitted to the United States permanently,2 and (2) nonimmigrants,
who are admitted for temporary durations and specific purposes (e.g., students, tourists, who are admitted for temporary durations and specific purposes (e.g., students, tourists,
temporary workers, or business travelers).3 Foreign nationals in the United States who lack lawful temporary workers, or business travelers).3 Foreign nationals in the United States who lack lawful
immigration status generally fall into three categories: (1) those who were admitted legally and immigration status generally fall into three categories: (1) those who were admitted legally and
then overstayed their nonimmigrant period of admission,4 (2) those who entered the country then overstayed their nonimmigrant period of admission,4 (2) those who entered the country
surreptitiously without inspection, and (3) those who were admitted on the basis of fraudulent surreptitiously without inspection, and (3) those who were admitted on the basis of fraudulent
documents. In all three instances, such individuals are in the United States in violation of the INA documents. In all three instances, such individuals are in the United States in violation of the INA
and subject to removal. and subject to removal.
The executive branch has discretion to grant temporary reprieves from removal to individuals The executive branch has discretion to grant temporary reprieves from removal to individuals
present in the United States in violation of the INA.5 Temporary Protected Status (TPS), codified present in the United States in violation of the INA.5 Temporary Protected Status (TPS), codified
in INA Section 244,6 provides temporary relief from removal and work authorization to in INA Section 244,6 provides temporary relief from removal and work authorization to certain foreign foreign
nationals—regardless of their immigration status—in the United States from countries nationals—regardless of their immigration status—in the United States from countries
experiencing armed conflict, natural disaster, or other extraordinary circumstances that prevent experiencing armed conflict, natural disaster, or other extraordinary circumstances that prevent
their safe return.their safe return. This report begins by situating TPS in the context of humanitarian responses to This report begins by situating TPS in the context of humanitarian responses to
migration. Another form of blanket relief7 from removal—Deferred Enforced Departure (DED)—migration. Another form of blanket relief7 from removal—Deferred Enforced Departure (DED)—
is also described, as is the historical use of these relief mechanisms. This report then provides is also described, as is the historical use of these relief mechanisms. This report then provides
information on each of the countries information on each of the countries ~~currently designated for~~and groups currently covered by TPS or DED, including the TPS or DED, including the
conditions that have contributed to their designation. Past legislation to provide lawful permanent conditions that have contributed to their designation. Past legislation to provide lawful permanent
resident (LPR) status to certain TPS-designated foreign nationals is also described. The report resident (LPR) status to certain TPS-designated foreign nationals is also described. The report
concludes with a concludes with a ~~discussion of current~~brief description of recent legislative activity legislative activity~~, as well as prior activity in the 117th~~
~~Congress,~~ related to TPS. related to TPS.
Humanitarian Response
As a State Party to the 1967 United Nations Protocol Relating to the Status of Refugees (U.N. As a State Party to the 1967 United Nations Protocol Relating to the Status of Refugees (U.N.
Protocol),8 the United States agrees to the principle of Protocol),8 the United States agrees to the principle of nonrefoulement, which asserts that a , which asserts that a
refugee should not be returned to a country where he or she faces serious threats to his or her life refugee should not be returned to a country where he or she faces serious threats to his or her life
~~or freedom on account of race, religion, nationality, membership in a particular social group, or~~

1 1 Alien is the term used in the Immigration and Nationality Act (INA) to mean anyone who is not a citizen or national is the term used in the Immigration and Nationality Act (INA) to mean anyone who is not a citizen or national
of the United States. It is synonymous with of the United States. It is synonymous with foreign national. See INA §101(a)(3) (8 U.S.C. §1101(a)(3)). . See INA §101(a)(3) (8 U.S.C. §1101(a)(3)).
2 See CRS Report R42866, 2 See CRS Report R42866, Permanent Legal Immigration to the United States: Policy Overview. .
3 See CRS Report R45040, 3 See CRS Report R45040, Immigration: Nonimmigrant (Temporary) Admissions to the United States. .
4 See CRS Report R47848, 4 See CRS Report R47848, Nonimmigrant Overstays: Overview and Policy Issues. .
5 For more information, see CRS Report R45158, 5 For more information, see CRS Report R45158, An Overview of Discretionary Reprieves from Removal: Deferred
Action, DACA, TPS, and Others. .
6 8 U.S.C. §1254a. 6 8 U.S.C. §1254a.
7 The term 7 The term blanket relief in this report refers to relief from removal that is administered to a group of individuals based in this report refers to relief from removal that is administered to a group of individuals based
on their ties to a foreign country; this stands in contrast to asylum, which is a form of relief administered on a case-by-on their ties to a foreign country; this stands in contrast to asylum, which is a form of relief administered on a case-by-
case basis to individuals based on their personal circumstances. case basis to individuals based on their personal circumstances.
8 The 1951 United Nations Convention Relating to the Status of Refugees, which was amended by its 1967 Protocol, 8 The 1951 United Nations Convention Relating to the Status of Refugees, which was amended by its 1967 Protocol,
defines who is a refugee and sets out the legal, social, and other kinds of protections that refugees and those seeking defines who is a refugee and sets out the legal, social, and other kinds of protections that refugees and those seeking
asylum are entitled to receive. It also states the responsibilities of nations that grant asylum. United Nations High asylum are entitled to receive. It also states the responsibilities of nations that grant asylum. United Nations High
Commission for Refugees, Commission for Refugees, Convention Relating to the Status of Refugees and Its 1967 Protocol, Geneva, Switzerland, , Geneva, Switzerland,
https://www.unhcr.org/en-us/about-us/background/4ec262df9/1951-convention-relating-status-refugees-its-1967-https://www.unhcr.org/en-us/about-us/background/4ec262df9/1951-convention-relating-status-refugees-its-1967-
protocol.html. protocol.html.
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or freedom on account of race, religion, nationality, membership in a particular social group, or political opinion. (This is now considered a rule of customary international law.) political opinion. (This is now considered a rule of customary international law.) Nonrefoulement
is embodied in several provisions of U.S. immigration law. Most notably, it is reflected in INA is embodied in several provisions of U.S. immigration law. Most notably, it is reflected in INA
provisions requiring the government to withhold the removal of a foreign national to a country in provisions requiring the government to withhold the removal of a foreign national to a country in
which his or her life or freedom would be threatened on the basis of race, religion, nationality, which his or her life or freedom would be threatened on the basis of race, religion, nationality,
membership in a particular social group, or political opinion.9 membership in a particular social group, or political opinion.9
The definition of a refugee in the INA, which is consistent with the U.N. Protocol, specifies that a The definition of a refugee in the INA, which is consistent with the U.N. Protocol, specifies that a
refugee is a person who is unwilling or unable to return to his/her country of nationality or refugee is a person who is unwilling or unable to return to his/her country of nationality or
habitual residence because of persecution or a well-founded fear of persecution on account of habitual residence because of persecution or a well-founded fear of persecution on account of
race, religion, nationality, membership in a particular social group, or political opinion.10 This race, religion, nationality, membership in a particular social group, or political opinion.10 This
definition also applies to individuals seeking asylum. Under the INA, refugees and asylees differ definition also applies to individuals seeking asylum. Under the INA, refugees and asylees differ
on the physical location of the persons seeking the status: those abroad apply for refugee status on the physical location of the persons seeking the status: those abroad apply for refugee status
while those in the United States or at a U.S. port of entry apply for asylum.11 Those admitted as while those in the United States or at a U.S. port of entry apply for asylum.11 Those admitted as
refugees or granted asylum can apply for LPR status after one year. refugees or granted asylum can apply for LPR status after one year.
Other foreign nationals in the United States who might elicit a humanitarian response may not Other foreign nationals in the United States who might elicit a humanitarian response may not
qualify for asylum because they do not meet the legal definition of a refugee; under certain qualify for asylum because they do not meet the legal definition of a refugee; under certain
circumstances these persons may be eligible for relief from removal through TPS or DED. circumstances these persons may be eligible for relief from removal through TPS or DED.
Temporary Protected Status
TPS is a blanket form of humanitarian relief.12 It is the statutory embodiment of safe haven for TPS is a blanket form of humanitarian relief.12 It is the statutory embodiment of safe haven for
foreign nationals within the United States13 who may not qualify for asylum but are nonetheless foreign nationals within the United States13 who may not qualify for asylum but are nonetheless
fleeing—or reluctant to return to—potentially dangerous situations. TPS was established by fleeing—or reluctant to return to—potentially dangerous situations. TPS was established by
Congress by Title III of the Immigration Act of 1990 (P.L. 101-649). The statute gives the Congress by Title III of the Immigration Act of 1990 (P.L. 101-649). The statute gives the
Secretary of the Department of Homeland Security (DHS),14 in consultation with other Secretary of the Department of Homeland Security (DHS),14 in consultation with other
government agencies (most notably the Department of State), the authority to designate a country government agencies (most notably the Department of State), the authority to designate a country
for TPS under one or more of the following conditions: for TPS under one or more of the following conditions:
(1) (1) ongoing armed conflict in a foreign state that poses a serious threat to personal safety; in a foreign state that poses a serious threat to personal safety;
(2) a foreign state request for TPS because it temporarily cannot handle the return of its (2) a foreign state request for TPS because it temporarily cannot handle the return of its
nationals due to an nationals due to an environmental disaster; or ; or
(3) (3) extraordinary and temporary conditions in a foreign state that prevent its nationals from in a foreign state that prevent its nationals from
safely returning. safely returning.

9 INA §208 (8 U.S.C. §1158); INA §241(b)(3) (8 U.S.C. §1231(b)(3)); and INA §101(a)(42) (8 U.S.C. §1101(a)(42)). 9 INA §208 (8 U.S.C. §1158); INA §241(b)(3) (8 U.S.C. §1231(b)(3)); and INA §101(a)(42) (8 U.S.C. §1101(a)(42)).
10 INA §101(a)(42) (8 U.S.C. §1101(a)(42)). In certain circumstances specified in INA §101(a)(42)(B), a refugee may 10 INA §101(a)(42) (8 U.S.C. §1101(a)(42)). In certain circumstances specified in INA §101(a)(42)(B), a refugee may
be within his/her country of nationality or habitual residence. be within his/her country of nationality or habitual residence.
11 See CRS Report R45539, 11 See CRS Report R45539, Immigration: U.S. Asylum Policy; and CRS Report RL31269, ; and CRS Report RL31269, Refugee Admissions and
Resettlement Policy. .
12 The term 12 The term blanket relief refers to relief from removal that is administered to a group of individuals based on their ties refers to relief from removal that is administered to a group of individuals based on their ties
to a foreign country; this stands in contrast to asylum, which is a form of relief administered on a case-by-case basis to to a foreign country; this stands in contrast to asylum, which is a form of relief administered on a case-by-case basis to
individuals based on their personal circumstances. individuals based on their personal circumstances.
13 Foreign nationals outside the United States are not eligible to apply for TPS. 13 Foreign nationals outside the United States are not eligible to apply for TPS.
14 When TPS was enacted in 1990, most immigration-related functions, including designating countries for TPS, fell 14 When TPS was enacted in 1990, most immigration-related functions, including designating countries for TPS, fell
under the authority of the Attorney General. With the creation of the Department of Homeland Security in 2002 (P.L. under the authority of the Attorney General. With the creation of the Department of Homeland Security in 2002 (P.L.
107-296), most of the Attorney General’s immigration-related authority transferred to the Secretary of DHS as of 107-296), most of the Attorney General’s immigration-related authority transferred to the Secretary of DHS as of
March 1, 2003. March 1, 2003.
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A foreign state may not be designated for TPS if the Secretary of DHS finds that allowing its A foreign state may not be designated for TPS if the Secretary of DHS finds that allowing its
nationals to temporarily stay in the United States is against the U.S. national interest.15 nationals to temporarily stay in the United States is against the U.S. national interest.15
The Secretary of DHS may designate a country for TPS for periods of 6 to 18 months and can The Secretary of DHS may designate a country for TPS for periods of 6 to 18 months and can
extend these periods if the country continues to meet the conditions for designation.16 Each extend these periods if the country continues to meet the conditions for designation.16 Each
designation specifies the date by which individuals must have continuously resided in the United designation specifies the date by which individuals must have continuously resided in the United
States in order to qualify.17 If the Secretary extends a designation, he or she may also move States in order to qualify.17 If the Secretary extends a designation, he or she may also move
forward the required arrival date to allow foreign nationals who forward the required arrival date to allow foreign nationals who more recently arrived in the United States arrived in the United States ~~later~~
to qualify, an action referred to as to qualify, an action referred to as redesignation. Redesignation is not defined in law; it also . Redesignation is not defined in law; it also
refers to cases in which a country is designated for TPS for a different or additional reason than refers to cases in which a country is designated for TPS for a different or additional reason than
previously designated (e.g., initially designated on the basis of armed conflict, and subsequently previously designated (e.g., initially designated on the basis of armed conflict, and subsequently
designated on the basis of a natural disaster). designated on the basis of a natural disaster).
To obtain TPS, nationals18 of foreign countries designated for TPS must pay specified fees19 and To obtain TPS, nationals18 of foreign countries designated for TPS must pay specified fees19 and
submit an application to DHS’s U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) before the submit an application to DHS’s U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) before the
deadline set forth in the deadline set forth in the Federal Register notice announcing the TPS designation. The application notice announcing the TPS designation. The application
must include supporting documentation as evidence of eligibility (e.g., a passport issued by the must include supporting documentation as evidence of eligibility (e.g., a passport issued by the
designated country and records showing continuous physical presence in the United States since designated country and records showing continuous physical presence in the United States since
the date established in the TPS designation).20 The statute the date established in the TPS designation).20 The statute also specifies specifies grounds of inadmissibility that that
cannot be waived, including those relating to criminal convictions, drug offenses, terrorist cannot be waived, including those relating to criminal convictions, drug offenses, terrorist
activity, and the persecution of others.21 Foreign nationals outside the United States are not activity, and the persecution of others.21 Foreign nationals outside the United States are not
eligible to apply for TPS. eligible to apply for TPS.
Individuals granted TPS are eligible for employment authorization, cannot be detained on the Individuals granted TPS are eligible for employment authorization, cannot be detained on the
basis of their immigration status, and are not subject to removal while they retain TPS.22 They basis of their immigration status, and are not subject to removal while they retain TPS.22 They
may be deemed ineligible for public assistance by a statemay be deemed ineligible for public assistance by a state;, and they may travel abroad with the prior they may travel abroad with the prior
consent of the DHS Secretary.23 TPS does not provide a path to lawful permanent residence or consent of the DHS Secretary.23 TPS does not provide a path to lawful permanent residence or
citizenship, but a TPS recipient is not barred from acquiring nonimmigrant or immigrant status if citizenship, but a TPS recipient is not barred from acquiring nonimmigrant or immigrant status if
he or she meets the requirements.24 DHS has indicated that information it collects when an he or she meets the requirements.24 DHS has indicated that information it collects when an
individual registers for TPS may be used to enforce immigration law or in any criminal individual registers for TPS may be used to enforce immigration law or in any criminal

15 INA §244(b)(1) (8 U.S.C. §1254a(b)(1)). 15 INA §244(b)(1) (8 U.S.C. §1254a(b)(1)).
16 There is no limit on the number of extensions a country can receive. 16 There is no limit on the number of extensions a country can receive.
17 This date is typically the same or very near to the date of the designation announcement. 17 This date is typically the same or very near to the date of the designation announcement.
18 In addition to nationals of designated countries, TPS statute provides that persons with no nationality who “last 18 In addition to nationals of designated countries, TPS statute provides that persons with no nationality who “last
habitually resided in such designated state” are eligible to apply. INA §244(a)(1) (8 U.S.C. §1254a(a)(1)). habitually resided in such designated state” are eligible to apply. INA §244(a)(1) (8 U.S.C. §1254a(a)(1)).
19 Fees for initial applicants include a $50 application fee (may not exceed $50 per 8 U.S.C. §1254a(c)(1)(B)), a $410 19 Fees for initial applicants include a $50 application fee (may not exceed $50 per 8 U.S.C. §1254a(c)(1)(B)), a $410
filing fee for employment authorization (if applying for employment authorization and between the ages of 14 and 65), filing fee for employment authorization (if applying for employment authorization and between the ages of 14 and 65),
and an $85 biometrics services fee for those age 14 and over. Applicants may request a waiver of the application and and an $85 biometrics services fee for those age 14 and over. Applicants may request a waiver of the application and
biometrics fees per 8 C.F.R. §103.7(c). Reregistration does not require the $50 application fee, but the other fees apply. biometrics fees per 8 C.F.R. §103.7(c). Reregistration does not require the $50 application fee, but the other fees apply.
20 See 8 C.F.R. §244.9 for details on evidence that must be submitted. 20 See 8 C.F.R. §244.9 for details on evidence that must be submitted.
21 Section 212 of the INA specifies broad grounds on which foreign nationals are considered ineligible to receive visas 21 Section 212 of the INA specifies broad grounds on which foreign nationals are considered ineligible to receive visas
and ineligible to be admitted to the United States. Section 244(c)(2) in the TPS statute lists which of these and ineligible to be admitted to the United States. Section 244(c)(2) in the TPS statute lists which of these grounds of
inadmissibility may be waived and which may not be waived. may be waived and which may not be waived.
22 INA §244(a)(1)(A), (a)(1)(B), (d)(4) (8 USC §1254a (a)(1)(A), (a)(1)(B), (d)(4)). 22 INA §244(a)(1)(A), (a)(1)(B), (d)(4) (8 USC §1254a (a)(1)(A), (a)(1)(B), (d)(4)).
23 INA §244(f) (8 U.S.C. §1254a(f)). 23 INA §244(f) (8 U.S.C. §1254a(f)).
24 For purposes of adjustment to lawful permanent resident status or a change to a nonimmigrant status, an individual 24 For purposes of adjustment to lawful permanent resident status or a change to a nonimmigrant status, an individual
granted TPS is considered as being in and maintaining “lawful status as a nonimmigrant” during the period in which granted TPS is considered as being in and maintaining “lawful status as a nonimmigrant” during the period in which
the alien is granted TPS. INA §244(f)(4) (8 U.S.C. §1254a(f)(4)). the alien is granted TPS. INA §244(f)(4) (8 U.S.C. §1254a(f)(4)).
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proceeding.25 In addition, withdrawal of an individual’s TPS may subject the individual to proceeding.25 In addition, withdrawal of an individual’s TPS may subject the individual to
exclusion or deportation proceedings.26 exclusion or deportation proceedings.26
Deferred Enforced Departure
In addition to TPS, there is another form of blanket relief from removal known as deferred In addition to TPS, there is another form of blanket relief from removal known as deferred
enforced departure (DED).27 DED is a temporary, discretionary, administrative stay of removal enforced departure (DED).27 DED is a temporary, discretionary, administrative stay of removal
granted to foreign nationals from designated granted to foreign nationals from designated ~~countries~~areas. Unlike TPS, a DED designation emanates . Unlike TPS, a DED designation emanates
from the President’s constitutional powers to conduct foreign relations and has no statutory basis. from the President’s constitutional powers to conduct foreign relations and has no statutory basis.
DED was first used in 1990 and has been applied to DED was first used in 1990 and has been applied to ~~seven countries (see~~ eight groups (see “Historical Use of
Blanket Relief”). Certain Palestinians, Liberians, and residents of Hong Kong living in the United States currently maintain relief under~~Relief”). Liberia and Hong Kong are currently covered by~~ DED. DED.
DED—and its precursor, extended voluntary departure (EVD)28—have been used DED—and its precursor, extended voluntary departure (EVD)28—have been used ~~on country-~~
~~specific bases~~ to provide relief from removal at the President’s discretion, usually in response to to provide relief from removal at the President’s discretion, usually in response to
war, civil unrest, or natural disasters.29 When Presidents grant DED through an executive order or war, civil unrest, or natural disasters.29 When Presidents grant DED through an executive order or
presidential memorandum, they generally provide eligibility guidelines and direct the Secretary of presidential memorandum, they generally provide eligibility guidelines and direct the Secretary of
Homeland Security to allow DED-eligible individuals to apply for employment authorization. Homeland Security to allow DED-eligible individuals to apply for employment authorization.
Unlike TPS, the Secretary of State does not need to be consulted when DED is granted. In Unlike TPS, the Secretary of State does not need to be consulted when DED is granted. In
contrast to recipients of TPS, individuals who benefit from DED are not required to register for contrast to recipients of TPS, individuals who benefit from DED are not required to register for
the status with USCIS unless they are applying for work authorization.30 Instead, DED is the status with USCIS unless they are applying for work authorization.30 Instead, DED is
triggered when a protected individual is identified for removal. triggered when a protected individual is identified for removal.
Historical Use of Blanket Relief
In 1990, when Congress enacted the TPS statute, it also granted TPS for 18 months to Salvadoran In 1990, when Congress enacted the TPS statute, it also granted TPS for 18 months to Salvadoran
nationals who were residing in the United States. Since then, the Attorney General (and later, the nationals who were residing in the United States. Since then, the Attorney General (and later, the
Secretary of DHS), in consultation with the Secretary of State, granted and subsequently Secretary of DHS), in consultation with the Secretary of State, granted and subsequently
terminated TPS for foreign nationals in the United States from the following countries: Angola, terminated TPS for foreign nationals in the United States from the following countries: Angola,

25 8 C.F.R. §244.16. 25 8 C.F.R. §244.16.
26 8 C.F.R. §244.14. 26 8 C.F.R. §244.14.
27 DED is not to be confused with 27 DED is not to be confused with deferred action, which the Department of Homeland Security defines as “a , which the Department of Homeland Security defines as “a
discretionary determination to defer removal action of an individual as an act of prosecutorial discretion.” For more discretionary determination to defer removal action of an individual as an act of prosecutorial discretion.” For more
information, see CRS Report R45158, information, see CRS Report R45158, An Overview of Discretionary Reprieves from Removal: Deferred Action,
DACA, TPS, and Others; and CRS Report R45995, ; and CRS Report R45995, Unauthorized Childhood Arrivals, DACA, and Related Legislation. .
28 EVD status, which was used from 1960 to 1990, was given to nationals of Iran, Lebanon, Nicaragua, Poland, and 28 EVD status, which was used from 1960 to 1990, was given to nationals of Iran, Lebanon, Nicaragua, Poland, and
Uganda. Other countries whose nationals have benefitted in the past from a status similar to EVD include Cambodia, Uganda. Other countries whose nationals have benefitted in the past from a status similar to EVD include Cambodia,
Chile, Cuba, Czechoslovakia, Dominican Republic, Hungary, Laos, Romania, and Vietnam. Chile, Cuba, Czechoslovakia, Dominican Republic, Hungary, Laos, Romania, and Vietnam.
29 See, for example, Executive Order 12711, “Policy Implementation With Respect to Nationals of the People’s 29 See, for example, Executive Order 12711, “Policy Implementation With Respect to Nationals of the People’s
Republic of China,” Republic of China,” Public Papers of the Presidents of the United States: George Bush XLI, President of the United
States: 1989-1993 (Washington: GPO, 1990); The White House (President Obama), Office of the Press Secretary, (Washington: GPO, 1990); The White House (President Obama), Office of the Press Secretary,
“Deferred Enforced Departure for Liberians,” presidential memorandum for the Secretary of Homeland Security, “Deferred Enforced Departure for Liberians,” presidential memorandum for the Secretary of Homeland Security,
September 28, 2016; The White House (President Trump), Office of the Press Secretary, “Deferred Enforced Departure September 28, 2016; The White House (President Trump), Office of the Press Secretary, “Deferred Enforced Departure
for Certain Venezuelans,” presidential memorandum for the Secretary of State and the Secretary of Homeland Security, for Certain Venezuelans,” presidential memorandum for the Secretary of State and the Secretary of Homeland Security,
January 19, 2021. January 19, 2021.
30 In general, the President directs executive agencies to implement procedures to provide DED and related benefits, 30 In general, the President directs executive agencies to implement procedures to provide DED and related benefits,
such as employment authorization. See, for example, U.S. Department of Homeland Security, U.S. Citizenship and such as employment authorization. See, for example, U.S. Department of Homeland Security, U.S. Citizenship and
Immigration Services, Immigration Services, Temporary Protected Status (TPS) and Deferred Enforced Departure (DED), ,
https://www.uscis.gov/i-9-central/complete-correct-form-i-9/temporary-protected-status-and-deferred-enforced-https://www.uscis.gov/i-9-central/complete-correct-form-i-9/temporary-protected-status-and-deferred-enforced-
departure. departure.
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Bosnia-Herzegovina, Burundi, Guinea, Guinea-Bissau, Kosovo (then a province of Serbia), Bosnia-Herzegovina, Burundi, Guinea, Guinea-Bissau, Kosovo (then a province of Serbia),
Kuwait, Lebanon, Liberia, Montserrat, Rwanda, and Sierra Leone.31 Kuwait, Lebanon, Liberia, Montserrat, Rwanda, and Sierra Leone.31
When the initial TPS designation of El Salvador expired in 1992, President George H. W. Bush When the initial TPS designation of El Salvador expired in 1992, President George H. W. Bush
granted DED to an estimated 190,000 Salvadorans through December 1994. President Bush also granted DED to an estimated 190,000 Salvadorans through December 1994. President Bush also
granted DED to about 80,000 Chinese nationals in the United States following the Tiananmen granted DED to about 80,000 Chinese nationals in the United States following the Tiananmen
Square massacre in June 1989, and these individuals retained DED status through January 1994.32 Square massacre in June 1989, and these individuals retained DED status through January 1994.32
From 1991 to 1996, DED was also granted to about 2,200 Kuwaiti Persian Gulf evacuees who From 1991 to 1996, DED was also granted to about 2,200 Kuwaiti Persian Gulf evacuees who
were airlifted to the United States after the 1990 Iraqi invasion of Kuwait. In December 1997, were airlifted to the United States after the 1990 Iraqi invasion of Kuwait. In December 1997,
President Clinton instructed the Attorney General to grant DED for one year to Haitian nationals President Clinton instructed the Attorney General to grant DED for one year to Haitian nationals
in the United States, providing time for the Administration to work with Congress on long-term in the United States, providing time for the Administration to work with Congress on long-term
legislative relief for Haitians.33 President George W. Bush directed that DED be provided to legislative relief for Haitians.33 President George W. Bush directed that DED be provided to
Liberian nationals whose TPS was expiring in September 2007; Liberian DED was extended Liberian nationals whose TPS was expiring in September 2007; Liberian DED was extended
several times by President Obama.34 President Trump terminated DED for Liberians, but provided several times by President Obama.34 President Trump terminated DED for Liberians, but provided
for extended wind-down periods that lasted until January 10, 2021 (for more details, see the for extended wind-down periods that lasted until January 10, 2021 (for more details, see the
“Liberia” section).35 On President Trump’s last full day in office, he granted DED to section).35 On President Trump’s last full day in office, he granted DED to
Venezuelans.36 President Biden reinstated DED for Liberians on his first day in office.37 In August Venezuelans.36 President Biden reinstated DED for Liberians on his first day in office.37 In August
2021, President Biden granted DED to residents of Hong Kong living in the United States.38 DED 2021, President Biden granted DED to residents of Hong Kong living in the United States.38 DED
for Venezuela expired on July 20, 2022, following its designation for TPS in Marchfor Venezuela expired on July 20, 2022, following its designation for TPS in March of 2021 (see 2021 (see
~~“Venezuela” below).~~

31 For a current and historical list of TPS designations by country and links to 31 For a current and historical list of TPS designations by country and links to Federal Register announcements, see announcements, see
U.S. Department of Justice, Executive Office for Immigration Review, U.S. Department of Justice, Executive Office for Immigration Review, Temporary Protected Status, ,
https://www.justice.gov/eoir/temporary-protected-status. For a graph showing effective dates, bases for designation, https://www.justice.gov/eoir/temporary-protected-status. For a graph showing effective dates, bases for designation,
and types of TPS decisions for FY1990–FY2019, see U.S. Government Accountability Office, and types of TPS decisions for FY1990–FY2019, see U.S. Government Accountability Office, Temporary Protected
Status: Steps Taken to Inform and Communicate Secretary of Homeland Security’s Decisions, GAO-20-134, April , GAO-20-134, April
2020, p. 11, https://www.gao.gov/assets/gao-20-134.pdf. 2020, p. 11, https://www.gao.gov/assets/gao-20-134.pdf.
32 Many of the beneficiaries of this DED grant were able to adjust to LPR status through the Chinese Student Protection 32 Many of the beneficiaries of this DED grant were able to adjust to LPR status through the Chinese Student Protection
Act of 1992 (P.L. 102-404). Act of 1992 (P.L. 102-404).
33 The Nicaraguan Adjustment and Central American Relief Act (NACARA) (Title II of P.L. 105-100) was enacted in 33 The Nicaraguan Adjustment and Central American Relief Act (NACARA) (Title II of P.L. 105-100) was enacted in
1997 and provided eligibility for LPR status to certain Nicaraguans, Cubans, Guatemalans, Salvadorans, and nationals 1997 and provided eligibility for LPR status to certain Nicaraguans, Cubans, Guatemalans, Salvadorans, and nationals
of the former Soviet bloc. President Clinton, among others, argued that Haitians deserved similar statutory treatment. of the former Soviet bloc. President Clinton, among others, argued that Haitians deserved similar statutory treatment.
The Haitian Refugee Immigration Fairness Act (HRIFA) (P.L. 105-277) was enacted in 1998, allowing certain Haitian The Haitian Refugee Immigration Fairness Act (HRIFA) (P.L. 105-277) was enacted in 1998, allowing certain Haitian
nationals who were in the United States before December 31, 1995, to adjust to LPR status. For more information, see nationals who were in the United States before December 31, 1995, to adjust to LPR status. For more information, see
archived CRS Report RS21349, archived CRS Report RS21349, U.S. Immigration Policy on Haitian Migrants.
34 U.S. Department of Homeland Security, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services, “DED Granted Country - 34 U.S. Department of Homeland Security, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services, “DED Granted Country -
Liberia,” https://www.uscis.gov/humanitarian/deferred-enforced-departure/ded-granted-country-liberia/ded-granted-Liberia,” https://www.uscis.gov/humanitarian/deferred-enforced-departure/ded-granted-country-liberia/ded-granted-
country-liberia. country-liberia.
35 The White House (President Trump), Office of the Press Secretary, “Extending the Wind-Down Period for Deferred 35 The White House (President Trump), Office of the Press Secretary, “Extending the Wind-Down Period for Deferred
Enforced Departure for Liberians,” presidential memorandum for the Secretary of State and the Secretary of Homeland Enforced Departure for Liberians,” presidential memorandum for the Secretary of State and the Secretary of Homeland
Security, March 30, 2020; The White House (President Trump), Office of the Press Secretary, “Extension of Deferred Security, March 30, 2020; The White House (President Trump), Office of the Press Secretary, “Extension of Deferred
Enforced Departure for Liberians,” presidential memorandum for the Secretary of State and the Secretary of Homeland Enforced Departure for Liberians,” presidential memorandum for the Secretary of State and the Secretary of Homeland
Security, March 28, 2019; and The White House (President Trump), Office of the Press Secretary, “Expiration of Security, March 28, 2019; and The White House (President Trump), Office of the Press Secretary, “Expiration of
Deferred Enforced Departure for Liberians,” presidential memorandum for the Secretary of State and the Secretary of Deferred Enforced Departure for Liberians,” presidential memorandum for the Secretary of State and the Secretary of
Homeland Security, March 27, 2018. Homeland Security, March 27, 2018.
36 The White House (President Trump), Office of the Press Secretary, “Deferred Enforced Departure for Certain 36 The White House (President Trump), Office of the Press Secretary, “Deferred Enforced Departure for Certain
Venezuelans,” presidential memorandum for the Secretary of State and the Secretary of Homeland Security, January Venezuelans,” presidential memorandum for the Secretary of State and the Secretary of Homeland Security, January
19, 2021. 19, 2021.
37 The White House (President Biden), Office of the Press Secretary, “Reinstating Deferred Enforced Departure for 37 The White House (President Biden), Office of the Press Secretary, “Reinstating Deferred Enforced Departure for
Liberians,” presidential memorandum for the Secretary of State and the Secretary of Homeland Security, January 20, Liberians,” presidential memorandum for the Secretary of State and the Secretary of Homeland Security, January 20,
2021. 2021.
38 The White House (President Biden), Office of the Press Secretary, “Memorandum on the Deferred Enforced 38 The White House (President Biden), Office of the Press Secretary, “Memorandum on the Deferred Enforced
Departure for Certain Hong Kong Residents,” presidential memorandum for the Secretary of State and the Secretary of Departure for Certain Hong Kong Residents,” presidential memorandum for the Secretary of State and the Secretary of
Homeland Security, August 5, 2021. Homeland Security, August 5, 2021.
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“Venezuela” below). On February 14, 2024, President Biden announced an 18-month DED grant for Palestinians in the United States.39 Current TPS and DED Designations
Sixteen countries are currently designated for TPS. As of Sixteen countries are currently designated for TPS. As of ~~September 30, 2023~~March 31, 2024, approximately , approximately
~~697,530~~ 863,880 foreign nationals residing in the United States from the following 16 countries were foreign nationals residing in the United States from the following 16 countries were
protected by TPS: Afghanistan, Burma, Cameroon, El Salvador, Ethiopia, Haiti, Honduras, Nepal, protected by TPS: Afghanistan, Burma, Cameroon, El Salvador, Ethiopia, Haiti, Honduras, Nepal,
Nicaragua, Somalia, South Sudan, Sudan, Syria, Ukraine, Venezuela, and Yemen. Nicaragua, Somalia, South Sudan, Sudan, Syria, Ukraine, Venezuela, and Yemen.
Table 1 lists the TPS-designated countries as of the date of this report, the most recent decision lists the TPS-designated countries as of the date of this report, the most recent decision
(e.g., designation, extension, or termination) by the Secretary of DHS, the date from which (e.g., designation, extension, or termination) by the Secretary of DHS, the date from which
individuals are required to have continuously resided in the United States, and the designation’s individuals are required to have continuously resided in the United States, and the designation’s
current expiration date. In additicurrent expiration date. In addition, Table 1 shows the number of individuals protected by TPS as shows the number of individuals protected by TPS as
of of ~~September 30, 2023.39~~March 31, 2024.40
In addition to the countries designated for TPS, certain nationals In addition to the countries designated for TPS, certain nationals ~~from~~of Liberia are covered by Liberia are covered by
DED, as are certain DED, as are certain Palestinians and certain Hong Kong residents currently present in the United States (see thHong Kong residents currently present in the United States (see the “Hong
~~Kong”~~ ~~and “Liberia”~~ Kong,” “Liberia,” and “Palestinians” sections)sections). Table 2 shows the dates associated with these grants. Individuals shows the dates associated with these grants. Individuals
covered by DED are not required to register for the status with USCIS unless they are applying covered by DED are not required to register for the status with USCIS unless they are applying
for work authorization. As a result, USCIS does not maintain data on the number of people for work authorization. As a result, USCIS does not maintain data on the number of people
covered by DED. covered by DED.
Table 1. Countries Currently Designated for TPS
Most Recent
Required Arrival
Expiration
Approved
Country
Decision
Datea
Dateb
~~Individualsc~~Individualsc
Afghanistan Afghanistan
Extension and Extension and
September 20, 2023 September 20, 2023
May 20, 2025 May 20, 2025
~~3,905~~8,245
redesignation redesignation
Burma Burma
Extension and Extension and
~~September 25, 2022~~
~~May 25, 2024~~
~~2,120~~March 21, 2024 November 25, 2025 2,320
redesignation redesignation
Cameroon Cameroon
Extension and Extension and
October 5, 2023 October 5, 2023
June 7, 2025 June 7, 2025
~~2,200~~3,265
redesignation redesignation
El Salvador El Salvador
Recission of Recission of
February 13, 2001 February 13, 2001
March 9, 2025 March 9, 2025
~~184,035~~180,375
termination and termination and
extensioextensiond
Ethiopia Ethiopia
New designation New designation
~~December 12, 2022~~
~~June 12, 2024~~
~~1,880~~April 11, 2024 December 12, 2025 2,330
Haiti Haiti
Extension and Extension and
November 6, 2022 November 6, 2022
August 3, 2024 August 3, 2024
~~164,235~~200,005
redesignation redesignation
Honduras Honduras
Recission of Recission of
December 30, 1998 December 30, 1998
July 5, 2025 July 5, 2025
~~55,360~~54,290
termination and termination and
extensioextensiond
~~Nepal~~
~~Recission of~~
~~June 24, 2015~~
~~June 24, 2025~~
~~8,100~~
~~termination and~~
~~extensione~~
~~Nicaragua~~
~~Recission of~~
~~December 30, 1998~~
~~July 5, 2025~~
~~2,930~~
~~termination and~~
~~extensiond~~

39 39 The White House (President Biden), Office of the Press Secretary, “Deferred Enforced Departure for Certain Palestinians,” presidential memorandum for the Secretary of State and the Secretary of Homeland Security, February 14, 2024. 40 Prior USCIS data on TPS recipients included some individuals who also had LPR status and some who had become Prior USCIS data on TPS recipients included some individuals who also had LPR status and some who had become
naturalized U.S. citizens. USCIS now provides data on TPS recipients who do naturalized U.S. citizens. USCIS now provides data on TPS recipients who do not have LPR status or U.S. citizenship. have LPR status or U.S. citizenship.
Thus, the numbers used in this report may be lower than those in prior versions of this report and in USCIS’s annual Thus, the numbers used in this report may be lower than those in prior versions of this report and in USCIS’s annual
TPS report to Congress, and more accurately reflect those who rely on TPS to remain in the United States. TPS report to Congress, and more accurately reflect those who rely on TPS to remain in the United States.
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Most Recent
Required Arrival
Expiration
Approved
Country
Decision
Datea
Dateb
~~Individualsc~~Individual sc Nepal Recission of June 24, 2015 June 24, 2025 7,875 termination and extensione Nicaragua Recission of December 30, 1998 July 5, 2025 2,925 termination and extensiond
Somalia Somalia
Extension and Extension and
January 11, 2023 January 11, 2023
September 17, 2024 September 17, 2024
~~470~~555
redesignation redesignation
South Sudan South Sudan
Extension and Extension and
September 4, 2023 September 4, 2023
May 3, 2025 May 3, 2025
~~120~~155
redesignation redesignation
Sudan Sudan
Extension and Extension and
August 16, 2023 August 16, 2023
April 19, 2025 April 19, 2025
1, 1,~~015~~190
redesignation redesignation
Syria Syria
Extension and Extension and
~~July 28, 2022~~
~~March 31, 2024~~
~~3,880~~January 25, 2024 September 30, 2025 3,865
redesignation redesignation
Ukraine Ukraine
Extension and Extension and
August 16, 2023 August 16, 2023
April 19, 2025 April 19, 2025
~~26,215~~50,205
redesignation redesignation
Venezuela Venezuela
Extension and Extension and
July 31, 2023 July 31, 2023
September 10, 2025 September 10, 2025
~~239,175~~344,335
redesignation redesignation
Yemen Yemen
Extension and Extension and
December 29, 2022 December 29, 2022
September 3, 2024 September 3, 2024
1, 1,~~790~~840
redesignation redesignation
Total

~~697,53~~863,880f
Sources: CRS compilation of information from CRS compilation of information from Federal Register announcements or press releases; numbers announcements or press releases; numbers
provided to CRS by USCIS. provided to CRS by USCIS.
Notes: Numbers are rounded to the nearest five by USCIS and may not sum to total due to rounding.
a. The arrival date represents the date from which individuals are required to have continuously resided in the a. The arrival date represents the date from which individuals are required to have continuously resided in the
United States in order to qualify for TPS and is indicated in the most recent TPS designation for that United States in order to qualify for TPS and is indicated in the most recent TPS designation for that
country. country. ~~Unless~~If a country is redesignated for TPS, the required arrival date a country is redesignated for TPS, the required arrival date ~~does not~~may change. A foreign change. A foreign
national is not considered to have failed this requirement for a “brief, casual, and innocent” absence. 8 national is not considered to have failed this requirement for a “brief, casual, and innocent” absence. 8
U.S.C. §1254a(c) and 8 C.F.R. §244.1. U.S.C. §1254a(c) and 8 C.F.R. §244.1.
b. The expiration date represents the end of the most recent designation period and is subject to change b. The expiration date represents the end of the most recent designation period and is subject to change
based on future decisions of the based on future decisions of the ~~Secretary of DHS~~DHS Secretary. .
c. These data reflect the number of individuals (rounded to the nearest five by USCIS) with an approved TPS c. These data reflect the number of individuals (rounded to the nearest five by USCIS) with an approved TPS
application as of application as of ~~September 30, 2023~~March 31, 2024, who had not obtained LPR status or U.S. citizenship. The data may , who had not obtained LPR status or U.S. citizenship. The data may
include individuals who have left the country or died since their last TPS approval, and do not necessarily include individuals who have left the country or died since their last TPS approval, and do not necessarily
include all nationals from the specified countries who are in the United States and are eligible for the status.include all nationals from the specified countries who are in the United States and are eligible for the status.
Numbers are rounded to the nearest five by USCIS and may not sum to total due to rounding. d. See the d. See the “Central American Countries” section below. ection below.
e. See the e. See the “Nepal” section below. ection below.
f. f.
Total includes Total includes ~~115~~110 individuals whose country of designation is listed as “Unknown.” individuals whose country of designation is listed as “Unknown.”
Table 2. ~~Countries/Regions Currently Under a DED Grant~~
~~Country/Region~~Current DED Grants DED Grant
Required Arrival Datea
Expiration Dateb
Hong Kong Hong Kong
January 26, 2023 January 26, 2023
January 25, 2025 January 25, 2025
Liberia Liberia
May 20, 2017 May 20, 2017
June 30, 2024 June 30, 2024
Palestinians February 14, 2024 August 13, 2025 Source: CRS compilation of information from CRS compilation of information from Federal Register announcements and White House press releases. announcements and White House press releases.
Congressional Research Service 7 Temporary Protected Status and Deferred Enforced Departure a. The arrival date represents the date from which individuals are required to have continuously resided in the a. The arrival date represents the date from which individuals are required to have continuously resided in the
United States in order to United States in order to ~~qualify~~be eligible for DED. for DED.
b. The expiration date represents the end of the most recent DED grant and is subject to change based on b. The expiration date represents the end of the most recent DED grant and is subject to change based on
future decisions of the President. future decisions of the President.
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Afghanistan
Tens of thousands of Afghans were evacuated and relocated to the United States in Tens of thousands of Afghans were evacuated and relocated to the United States in ~~the~~ summer summer of
~~2021~~ 2021 as a result of the U.S. military withdrawal from Afghanistan.as a result of the U.S. military withdrawal from Afghanistan.4041 These Afghan nationals These Afghan nationals
included persons who had assisted the United States during its two-decade military presence and included persons who had assisted the United States during its two-decade military presence and
economic development efforts in Afghanistan. Most Afghan evacuees who were allowed to enter economic development efforts in Afghanistan. Most Afghan evacuees who were allowed to enter
the United States were granted immigration parole. Parolees are permitted to remain in the United the United States were granted immigration parole. Parolees are permitted to remain in the United
States for the duration of the grant of parole and may obtain work authorization.States for the duration of the grant of parole and may obtain work authorization.4142 These benefits These benefits
are temporary; parole does not provide a recipient with a designated pathway to LPR status. Most are temporary; parole does not provide a recipient with a designated pathway to LPR status. Most
Afghan evacuees were granted parole for two years,Afghan evacuees were granted parole for two years,4243 though some were reportedly granted though some were reportedly granted
parole for one year.parole for one year.4344
On March 15, 2022, DHS Secretary Mayorkas announced the designation of Afghanistan for TPS On March 15, 2022, DHS Secretary Mayorkas announced the designation of Afghanistan for TPS
for a period of 18 months.for a period of 18 months.4445 The designation is based on ongoing armed conflict “as the Taliban The designation is based on ongoing armed conflict “as the Taliban
seeks to impose control in all areas of the country and Islamic State-Khorasan (IS-K) conducts seeks to impose control in all areas of the country and Islamic State-Khorasan (IS-K) conducts
attacks against civilians.”attacks against civilians.”4546 The DHS press release also references the “extraordinary and The DHS press release also references the “extraordinary and
temporary” conditions that prevent Afghans from being able to safely return to Afghanistan: temporary” conditions that prevent Afghans from being able to safely return to Afghanistan:
“collapsing public sector, a worsening economic crisis, drought, food and water insecurity, lack of “collapsing public sector, a worsening economic crisis, drought, food and water insecurity, lack of
access to healthcare, internal displacement, human rights abuses and repression by the Taliban, access to healthcare, internal displacement, human rights abuses and repression by the Taliban,
destruction of infrastructure, and increasing criminality.”destruction of infrastructure, and increasing criminality.”4647 According to DHS, the TPS According to DHS, the TPS
designation designation ~~will~~would allow allow ~~some~~approximately 74,500 Afghans who were residing in the United States as of March 74,500 Afghans who were residing in the United States as of March
15, 2022, to remain and work legally through November 20, 2023.15, 2022, to remain and work legally through November 20, 2023. 4748
In September 2023, DHS extended Afghanistan’s TPS designation for another 18 months, through In September 2023, DHS extended Afghanistan’s TPS designation for another 18 months, through
May 20, 2025, based on the conditions described above.May 20, 2025, based on the conditions described above.4849 DHS also redesignated Afghanistan for DHS also redesignated Afghanistan for
TPS, allowing additional Afghan nationals who have been residing in the United States since TPS, allowing additional Afghan nationals who have been residing in the United States since
September 20, 2023, to apply for TPS. DHS estimates that approximately 14,600 individuals September 20, 2023, to apply for TPS. DHS estimates that approximately 14,600 individuals ~~may~~
~~become~~became newly eligible for TPS under the redesignation of Afghanistan. newly eligible for TPS under the redesignation of Afghanistan.~~49 As of September 30,~~
~~2023, 18,200 Afghans had applied for TPS. Of those that had been adjudicated, 4,095 had been~~
~~approved.50~~

4050 As of March 31, 2024, 8,245 nationals of Afghanistan were covered by TPS.51 41 For more information, see CRS Report R46879, For more information, see CRS Report R46879, U.S. Military Withdrawal and Taliban Takeover in Afghanistan:
Frequently Asked Questions. .
4142 For more information, see CRS Report R46570, For more information, see CRS Report R46570, Immigration Parole. .
4243 U.S. Department of Homeland Security, “Fact Sheet on Operation Allies Welcome,” November 5, 2021. Available at U.S. Department of Homeland Security, “Fact Sheet on Operation Allies Welcome,” November 5, 2021. Available at
https://www.dhs.gov/sites/default/files/publications/21_1110-opa-dhs-resettlement-of-at-risk-afghans.pdf. https://www.dhs.gov/sites/default/files/publications/21_1110-opa-dhs-resettlement-of-at-risk-afghans.pdf.
4344 Rebecca Beitsch, “DHS gives temporary protected status to Afghans in US,” Rebecca Beitsch, “DHS gives temporary protected status to Afghans in US,” The Hill, March 16, 2022. , March 16, 2022.
4445 U.S. Department of Homeland Security, “Secretary Mayorkas Designates Afghanistan for Temporary Protected U.S. Department of Homeland Security, “Secretary Mayorkas Designates Afghanistan for Temporary Protected
Status,” press release, March 16, 2022. Status,” press release, March 16, 2022.
4546 Ibid. Ibid.
4647 Ibid. Ibid.
4748 Email to CRS from U.S. Department of Homeland Security, March 17, 2022. Email to CRS from U.S. Department of Homeland Security, March 17, 2022.
4849 Department of Homeland Security, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services, “Extension and Redesignation of Department of Homeland Security, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services, “Extension and Redesignation of
Afghanistan for Temporary Protected Status,” 88Afghanistan for Temporary Protected Status,” 88 Federal Register 65728-65737, September 25, 2023. 65728-65737, September 25, 2023.
49 50 Ibid. Ibid.
5051 Data provided to CRS by U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services. Data provided to CRS by U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services. ~~Some of these applications were pending~~
~~adjudication. The 4,095 approvals include 185 individuals who had obtained LPR status as of September 30, 2023, and~~
~~are therefore not included in the data presented in Table 1.~~This number does not include TPS-approved nationals of Afghanistan who subsequently obtained LPR status.
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Burma
On February 1, 2021, Burma’s military seized control of Burma’s Union Government and On February 1, 2021, Burma’s military seized control of Burma’s Union Government and
detained State Counselor Aung San Suu Kyi (the country’s de facto civilian leader) and members detained State Counselor Aung San Suu Kyi (the country’s de facto civilian leader) and members
of her political party. The military’s action was widely condemned internationally as a blow to of her political party. The military’s action was widely condemned internationally as a blow to
Burma’s partial transition from military rule to democracy.Burma’s partial transition from military rule to democracy.5152 In subsequent weeks, the military In subsequent weeks, the military
used lethal force against peaceful protesters several times. used lethal force against peaceful protesters several times.
In a press release announcing the decision to designate Burma for TPS on the basis of In a press release announcing the decision to designate Burma for TPS on the basis of
extraordinary and temporary conditions, Secretary Mayorkas stated, “Due to the military coup extraordinary and temporary conditions, Secretary Mayorkas stated, “Due to the military coup
and security forces’ brutal violence against civilians, the people of Burma are suffering a complex and security forces’ brutal violence against civilians, the people of Burma are suffering a complex
and deteriorating humanitarian crisis in many parts of the country.”and deteriorating humanitarian crisis in many parts of the country.”5253 The press release also noted, The press release also noted,
“The coup has led to continuing violence, pervasive arbitrary detentions, the use of lethal “The coup has led to continuing violence, pervasive arbitrary detentions, the use of lethal
violence against peaceful protesters, and intimidation of the people of Burma. The coup has violence against peaceful protesters, and intimidation of the people of Burma. The coup has
worsened humanitarian conditions in several areas by limiting access to life-saving assistance, worsened humanitarian conditions in several areas by limiting access to life-saving assistance,
disrupting flights carrying humanitarian and medical aid, and spurring an economic crisis.”disrupting flights carrying humanitarian and medical aid, and spurring an economic crisis.”5354
Burma’s initial designation was for 18 months (through November 25, 2022) and applied to Burma’s initial designation was for 18 months (through November 25, 2022) and applied to
Burmese nationals who could demonstrate that they were present in the United States as of March Burmese nationals who could demonstrate that they were present in the United States as of March
11, 2021. DHS estimated that 1,600 individuals 11, 2021. DHS estimated that 1,600 individuals ~~would be~~were eligible under this designation.55 Secretary Mayorkas has extended Burma’s designation twice since then—in September 2022 and in May 2024—citing ongoing violence, human trafficking, food insecurity, and other humanitarian concerns.56 Each extension was for 18 months and was accompanied by a redesignation, allowing more recently arrived Burmese nationals to be eligible for TPS. The latest redesignation makes Burmese nationals residing in the United States as of March 21, 2024, eligible for TPS. The redesignation takes effect on May 26, 2024, and is to remain in effect through November 25, 2025. DHS estimates that approximately 9,590 additional individuals may be eligible for TPS under the two redesignations of Burma.57 As of March 31, 2024, 2,320 nationals of Burma were covered by TPS.58 52 See CRS Insight IN11594, Coup in Burma (Myanmar): Issues for U.S. Policy. 53 ~~eligible under this designation.54 On~~
~~September 26, 2022, Secretary Mayorkas announced that he was extending Burma’s TPS~~
~~designation for another 18 months and at the same time redesignating Burma, citing “continuing~~
~~violence, large-scale human rights abuses, including arbitrary detentions and the use of deadly~~
~~force against unarmed individuals, mass displacement of civilians, worsened humanitarian~~
~~conditions and limited access to shelter, food, water, and medical care.”55 This redesignation~~
~~makes Burmese nationals (and individuals having no nationality who last habitually resided in~~
~~Burma) residing in the United States as of September 25, 2022, eligible for TPS. The~~
~~redesignation took effect on November 26, 2022, and is to remain in effect through May 25,~~
~~2024. DHS estimates that approximately 2,290 additional individuals may be eligible for TPS~~
~~under the redesignation of Burma.56 As of September 30, 2023, there were 2,170 individuals~~
~~approved for TPS under the Burma designation.57~~

~~51 See CRS Insight IN11594, Coup in Burma (Myanmar): Issues for U.S. Policy.~~
52 U.S. Department of Homeland Security, “Secretary Mayorkas Designates Burma for Temporary Protected Status,” U.S. Department of Homeland Security, “Secretary Mayorkas Designates Burma for Temporary Protected Status,”
press release, March 12, 2021, https://www.dhs.gov/news/2021/03/12/secretary-mayorkas-designates-burma-press release, March 12, 2021, https://www.dhs.gov/news/2021/03/12/secretary-mayorkas-designates-burma-
temporary-protected-status. temporary-protected-status.
5354 Ibid. Ibid.
5455 U.S. Department of Homeland Security, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services, “Designation of Burma U.S. Department of Homeland Security, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services, “Designation of Burma
(Myanmar) for Temporary Protected Status,” 86 (Myanmar) for Temporary Protected Status,” 86 Federal Register 28132-28137, May 25, 2021; Michele Kelemen, 28132-28137, May 25, 2021; Michele Kelemen,
“U.S. Offers Protected Status For People From Myanmar As Coup Leaders Crack Down,” National Public Radio, “U.S. Offers Protected Status For People From Myanmar As Coup Leaders Crack Down,” National Public Radio,
March 12, 2021; Simon Lewis and Humeyra Pamuk, “U.S. grants Myanmar nationals relief from deportation after March 12, 2021; Simon Lewis and Humeyra Pamuk, “U.S. grants Myanmar nationals relief from deportation after
military coup,” military coup,” Reuters, March 12, 2021; Joe Walsh, “Biden Offers Deportation Relief To Myanmar Nationals Amid , March 12, 2021; Joe Walsh, “Biden Offers Deportation Relief To Myanmar Nationals Amid
Coup Chaos,” Coup Chaos,” Forbes, March 12, 2021. , March 12, 2021.
~~55 Department of Homeland Security, “Secretary Mayorkas Extends and Redesignates Temporary Protected Status for~~
~~Burma,” press release, September 26, 2022, https://www.dhs.gov/news/2022/09/26/secretary-mayorkas-extends-and-~~
~~redesignates-temporary-protected-status-burma.~~
5656 For more information on country conditions, see U.S. Department of Homeland Security, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services, “Extension and Redesignation of Burma (Myanmar) for Temporary Protected Status,” 87 Federal Register 58515-58524, September 27, 2022; and U.S. Department of Homeland Security, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services, “Extension and Redesignation of Burma (Myanmar) for Temporary Protected Status,” 89 Federal Register 20682-20690, March 25, 2024. 57 U.S. Department of Homeland Security, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services, “Extension and Redesignation U.S. Department of Homeland Security, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services, “Extension and Redesignation
of Burma (Myanmar) for Temporary Protected Status,” 87 of Burma (Myanmar) for Temporary Protected Status,” 87 Federal Register 58515-58524, September 27, 2022 58515-58524, September 27, 2022.
~~57 Data provided to CRS by U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services. Some of these applications were pending~~
~~adjudication. The 2,170 approvals include 50 individuals who had obtained LPR status as of September 30, 2023, and~~
~~are therefore not included in the data presented in Table 1.~~; and U.S. Department of Homeland Security, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services, “Extension and Redesignation of Burma (Myanmar) for Temporary Protected Status,” 89 Federal Register 20682-20690, March 25, 2024. 58 Data provided to CRS by U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services. This number does not include TPS-approved nationals of Burma who subsequently obtained LPR status.
Congressional Research Service Congressional Research Service

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Temporary Protected Status and Deferred Enforced Departure

Cameroon
Cameroon faces security crises on several fronts.Cameroon faces security crises on several fronts.5859 Northern Cameroon faces threats from Boko Northern Cameroon faces threats from Boko
Haram, a Nigerian-origin armed Islamist group, and an Islamic State-affiliated offshoot. In the Haram, a Nigerian-origin armed Islamist group, and an Islamic State-affiliated offshoot. In the
west, a conflict between Anglophone separatists and state security forces that began in 2017 has west, a conflict between Anglophone separatists and state security forces that began in 2017 has
led to thousands of civilian deaths and widespread human rights abuses. Over 1 million led to thousands of civilian deaths and widespread human rights abuses. Over 1 million
Cameroonians have been internally displaced due to the conflicts in the north and west.Cameroonians have been internally displaced due to the conflicts in the north and west.5960 Some Some
4.7 million Cameroonians (more than one in seven) are in need of humanitarian assistance, per 4.7 million Cameroonians (more than one in seven) are in need of humanitarian assistance, per
U.N. estimates.U.N. estimates.6061
In 2020, multiple Members of Congress urged the Trump Administration to halt the planned In 2020, multiple Members of Congress urged the Trump Administration to halt the planned
removal of Cameroonian asylum-seekers, citing unsafe conditions in Cameroon.removal of Cameroonian asylum-seekers, citing unsafe conditions in Cameroon.6162 Starting in Starting in
2021, multiple Members of Congress asked the Biden Administration to grant TPS or DED for 2021, multiple Members of Congress asked the Biden Administration to grant TPS or DED for
Cameroon.Cameroon.6263 In 2022, the U.S. organization Human Rights Watch raised concerns over the safety In 2022, the U.S. organization Human Rights Watch raised concerns over the safety
of Cameroonians removed from the United States, citing allegations that some of those returned of Cameroonians removed from the United States, citing allegations that some of those returned
to Cameroon from the United States faced arbitrary arrest and detention, torture, rape, and other to Cameroon from the United States faced arbitrary arrest and detention, torture, rape, and other
abuses by Cameroonian authorities.abuses by Cameroonian authorities.6364
On April 15, 2022, DHS Secretary Mayorkas announced that he was designating Cameroon for On April 15, 2022, DHS Secretary Mayorkas announced that he was designating Cameroon for
TPS based on armed conflict and extraordinary conditions that prevent its nationals from TPS based on armed conflict and extraordinary conditions that prevent its nationals from
returning to Cameroon safely. The announcement cited “the extreme violence between returning to Cameroon safely. The announcement cited “the extreme violence between
government forces and armed separatists and a significant rise in attacks from Boko Haram,” as government forces and armed separatists and a significant rise in attacks from Boko Haram,” as
well as the widespread destruction of civilian infrastructure, which “have led to economic well as the widespread destruction of civilian infrastructure, which “have led to economic
instability, food insecurity, and several hundred thousand displaced Cameroonians without access instability, food insecurity, and several hundred thousand displaced Cameroonians without access
to schools, hospitals, and other critical services.”to schools, hospitals, and other critical services.”6465 The 18-month designation covered nationals The 18-month designation covered nationals
of Cameroon who were residing in the United States as of April 14, 2022. DHS estimated that of Cameroon who were residing in the United States as of April 14, 2022. DHS estimated that
11,700 individuals were eligible to file applications for TPS under this initial designation of 11,700 individuals were eligible to file applications for TPS under this initial designation of
Cameroon.66 59
58 See CRS Report R46919, See CRS Report R46919, Cameroon: Key Issues and U.S. Policy. .
5960 U.N. High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR), Operational Data Portal: Cameroon, data as of September 30, U.N. High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR), Operational Data Portal: Cameroon, data as of September 30,
2023, at https://data.unhcr.org/en/country/cmr. 2023, at https://data.unhcr.org/en/country/cmr.
6061 U.N. Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (UNOCHA), “Humanitarian Needs Overview: Cameroon,” U.N. Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (UNOCHA), “Humanitarian Needs Overview: Cameroon,”
March 2023. March 2023.
6162 See, for example, Senator Richard Blumenthal, “Congressional Democrats Demand Trump Administration Reverse See, for example, Senator Richard Blumenthal, “Congressional Democrats Demand Trump Administration Reverse
its Barrage of Policies Targeting Asylum Seekers,” press release, June 19, 2020, https://www.blumenthal.senate.gov/its Barrage of Policies Targeting Asylum Seekers,” press release, June 19, 2020, https://www.blumenthal.senate.gov/
newsroom/press/release/congressional-democrats-demand-trump-administration-reverse-its-barrage-of-policies-newsroom/press/release/congressional-democrats-demand-trump-administration-reverse-its-barrage-of-policies-
targeting-asylum-seekers; Congressional Black Caucus, “The Congressional Black Caucus Sends Letter to ICE with targeting-asylum-seekers; Congressional Black Caucus, “The Congressional Black Caucus Sends Letter to ICE with
House Committee on Homeland Security to Stop Deportation Flight to Cameroon,” press release, October 13, 2020, House Committee on Homeland Security to Stop Deportation Flight to Cameroon,” press release, October 13, 2020,
https://cbc.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=2240; and letter from Senator Van Hollen and others to https://cbc.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=2240; and letter from Senator Van Hollen and others to
Acting Secretary Chad Wolf, October 28, 2020, available at https://www.vanhollen.senate.gov/imo/media/doc/Acting Secretary Chad Wolf, October 28, 2020, available at https://www.vanhollen.senate.gov/imo/media/doc/
201028%20Cameroon%20Letter_Signed.pdf201028%20Cameroon%20Letter_Signed.pdf;
62. 63 See, for example, letter from 42 Members of Congress to President Biden and Secretary Mayorkas, February 17, See, for example, letter from 42 Members of Congress to President Biden and Secretary Mayorkas, February 17,
2021, available at https://www.vanhollen.senate.gov/imo/media/doc/2021, available at https://www.vanhollen.senate.gov/imo/media/doc/
210217%20TPS%20Cameroon%20On%20Letterhead%20Letter_Final.pdf; and letter from the House Judiciary 210217%20TPS%20Cameroon%20On%20Letterhead%20Letter_Final.pdf; and letter from the House Judiciary
Committee to Secretary Mayorkas, July 30, 2021, available at https://lofgren.house.gov/sites/evo-subsites/lofgren-Committee to Secretary Mayorkas, July 30, 2021, available at https://lofgren.house.gov/sites/evo-subsites/lofgren-
evo.house.gov/files/7.30.21%20Cameroon%20TPS%20Letter.pdf. evo.house.gov/files/7.30.21%20Cameroon%20TPS%20Letter.pdf.
6364 Human Rights Watch, “‘How Can You Throw Us Back?’: Asylum Seekers Abused in the US and Deported to Harm Human Rights Watch, “‘How Can You Throw Us Back?’: Asylum Seekers Abused in the US and Deported to Harm
in Cameroon,” February 10, 2022. in Cameroon,” February 10, 2022.
6465 U.S. Department of Homeland Security, “Secretary Mayorkas Designates Cameroon for Temporary Protected Status U.S. Department of Homeland Security, “Secretary Mayorkas Designates Cameroon for Temporary Protected Status
for 18 months,” press release, April 15, 2022. for 18 months,” press release, April 15, 2022.
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~~Cameroon.65 As of September 30, 2023, 3,370 Cameroonians had applied for TPS, and 2,235 had~~
~~been approved.66~~
66 U.S. Department of Homeland Security, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services, “Designation of Cameroon for Temporary Protected Status,” 87 Federal Register 34706-34713, June 7, 2022. Congressional Research Service 10 Temporary Protected Status and Deferred Enforced Departure In October 2023, DHS extended Cameroon’s designation for 18 months, through June 7, 2025, In October 2023, DHS extended Cameroon’s designation for 18 months, through June 7, 2025,
based on ongoing armed conflict and extraordinary and temporary conditions.67 This allows those based on ongoing armed conflict and extraordinary and temporary conditions.67 This allows those
who received TPS under the 2022 designation to remain in the United States through June 7, who received TPS under the 2022 designation to remain in the United States through June 7,
2025. DHS also redesignated Cameroon for TPS, allowing additional Cameroonian nationals who 2025. DHS also redesignated Cameroon for TPS, allowing additional Cameroonian nationals who
have been residing in the United States since October 5, 2023, to apply. DHS estimated that have been residing in the United States since October 5, 2023, to apply. DHS estimated that
approximately 7,900 individuals may be newly eligible for TPS under the redesignation of approximately 7,900 individuals may be newly eligible for TPS under the redesignation of
Cameroon.68Cameroon.68 As of March 31, 2024, 3,265 nationals of Cameroon were covered by TPS.69
Central American Countries
The only time Congress designated a country for TPS was in 1990 (as part of P.L. 101-649, the The only time Congress designated a country for TPS was in 1990 (as part of P.L. 101-649, the
law establishing TPS) when it designated El Salvador for 18 months.law establishing TPS) when it designated El Salvador for 18 months.6970 In the aftermath of In the aftermath of
Hurricane Mitch in November 1998, then-Attorney General Janet Reno announced that she would Hurricane Mitch in November 1998, then-Attorney General Janet Reno announced that she would
temporarily suspend the deportation of nationals from El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, and temporarily suspend the deportation of nationals from El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, and
Nicaragua. On January 5, 1999, she designated Honduras and Nicaragua for TPS due to “severe Nicaragua. On January 5, 1999, she designated Honduras and Nicaragua for TPS due to “severe
flooding and associated damage” and “substantial disruption of living conditions” caused by flooding and associated damage” and “substantial disruption of living conditions” caused by
Hurricane Mitch.Hurricane Mitch.7071 Prior to leaving office in January 2001, President Clinton said that his Prior to leaving office in January 2001, President Clinton said that his
Administration would temporarily suspend deportations to El Salvador because of a major Administration would temporarily suspend deportations to El Salvador because of a major
earthquake. In 2001, the George W. Bush Administration granted TPS to Salvadoran nationals earthquake. In 2001, the George W. Bush Administration granted TPS to Salvadoran nationals
following two earthquakes that rocked the country.following two earthquakes that rocked the country.7172
Over the years, the George W. Bush Administration and the Obama Administration extended TPS Over the years, the George W. Bush Administration and the Obama Administration extended TPS
for Central Americans from El Salvador, Honduras, and Nicaragua on the rationale that it was still for Central Americans from El Salvador, Honduras, and Nicaragua on the rationale that it was still
unsafe for their nationals to return due to the disruption of living conditions from environmental unsafe for their nationals to return due to the disruption of living conditions from environmental
disasters. disasters.
Beginning in late 2017, the Trump Administration announced decisions to terminate TPS for Beginning in late 2017, the Trump Administration announced decisions to terminate TPS for
Nicaragua and El Salvador and to put on hold a decision about Honduras. In November 2017, Nicaragua and El Salvador and to put on hold a decision about Honduras. In November 2017,
DHS announced that TPS for Nicaragua would end on January 5, 2019 due to “recovery efforts DHS announced that TPS for Nicaragua would end on January 5, 2019 due to “recovery efforts
relating to Hurricane Mitch [that] have largely been completed.”relating to Hurricane Mitch [that] have largely been completed.”7273 On the same day, DHS On the same day, DHS
announced that more information was necessary to make a determination about TPS for announced that more information was necessary to make a determination about TPS for

~~65 U.S. Department of Homeland Security, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services, “Designation of Cameroon for~~
~~Temporary Protected Status,” 87 Federal Register 34706-34713, June 7, 2022.~~
~~66 Data provided to CRS by U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services. Some of these applications were pending~~
~~adjudication. The 2,235 approvals include 30 individuals who had obtained LPR status as of September 30, 2023, and~~
~~are therefore not included in the data presented in Table 1.~~
Honduras; as a result, statute dictates that its status be extended for six months.74 On May 4, 2018, DHS announced its decision to terminate the TPS designation for Honduras, with an 18- 67 U.S. Department of Homeland Security, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services, “Extension and Redesignation 67 U.S. Department of Homeland Security, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services, “Extension and Redesignation
of Cameroon for Temporary Protected Status,” 88of Cameroon for Temporary Protected Status,” 88 Federal Register 69945-69953, October 10, 2023. 69945-69953, October 10, 2023.
68 Ibid. 69 Data provided to CRS by U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services. This number does not include TPS-approved nationals of Cameroon who subsequently obtained LPR status. 70~~68 Ibid.~~
69 For historical analysis, see archived CRS Report IB87205, For historical analysis, see archived CRS Report IB87205, Immigration Status of Salvadorans and Nicaraguans
(available to congressional clients upon request). (available to congressional clients upon request).
7071 U.S. Department of Justice, Immigration and Naturalization Service, “The Designation of Honduras Under U.S. Department of Justice, Immigration and Naturalization Service, “The Designation of Honduras Under
Temporary Protected Status,” 64Temporary Protected Status,” 64 Federal Register 524-526, January 5, 1999; U.S. Department of Justice, Immigration 524-526, January 5, 1999; U.S. Department of Justice, Immigration
and Naturalization Service, “The Designation of Nicaragua Under Temporary Protected Status,” 64and Naturalization Service, “The Designation of Nicaragua Under Temporary Protected Status,” 64 Federal Register
526-528, January 5, 1999. 526-528, January 5, 1999.
7172 U.S. Department of Justice Immigration and Naturalization Service, “The Designation of El Salvador Under U.S. Department of Justice Immigration and Naturalization Service, “The Designation of El Salvador Under
Temporary Protected Status,” 66Temporary Protected Status,” 66 Federal Register 14214-14216, March 9, 2001. 14214-14216, March 9, 2001.
7273 U.S. Department of Homeland Security, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services, “Termination of the Designation U.S. Department of Homeland Security, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services, “Termination of the Designation
of Nicaragua for Temporary Protected Status,” 82 of Nicaragua for Temporary Protected Status,” 82 Federal Register 59636-59642, December 15, 2017. 59636-59642, December 15, 2017.
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~~Honduras; as a result, statute dictates that its status be extended for six months.73 On May 4,~~
~~2018, DHS announced its decision to terminate the TPS designation for Honduras, with an 18-~~
74 U.S. Department of Homeland Security, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services, “Extension of the Designation of Honduras for Temporary Protected Status,”82 Federal Register 59630-59636, December 15, 2017. Congressional Research Service 11 Temporary Protected Status and Deferred Enforced Departure month delay (until January 5, 2020) to allow for an orderly transition.month delay (until January 5, 2020) to allow for an orderly transition.7475 The terminations for The terminations for
Nicaragua and Honduras were put on hold due to a legal challenge.Nicaragua and Honduras were put on hold due to a legal challenge.7576 On June 13, 2023, DHS On June 13, 2023, DHS
announced that it was rescinding the Trump Administration’s terminations and extending their announced that it was rescinding the Trump Administration’s terminations and extending their
designations for 18 months.designations for 18 months.7677 The extensions for Nicaragua and Honduras are to last until July 5, The extensions for Nicaragua and Honduras are to last until July 5,
2025.2025. As of March 31, 2024, 2,925 nationals of Nicaragua and 54,290 nationals of Honduras were covered by TPS.78
On January 8, 2018, DHS announced its decision to terminate TPS for El Salvador—whose On January 8, 2018, DHS announced its decision to terminate TPS for El Salvador—whose
nationals accounted for about 60% of all TPS recipients at the time—after an 18-month transition nationals accounted for about 60% of all TPS recipients at the time—after an 18-month transition
period. El Salvador’s TPS designation was scheduled to end on September 9, 2019,period. El Salvador’s TPS designation was scheduled to end on September 9, 2019,7779 but the but the
termination was put on hold due to a legal challenge.termination was put on hold due to a legal challenge.7880 DHS announced in October 2019—as part DHS announced in October 2019—as part
of agreements with El Salvador related to information sharing and security—that it would extend of agreements with El Salvador related to information sharing and security—that it would extend
the validity of work permits through January 4, 2021, for Salvadorans with TPS. The October the validity of work permits through January 4, 2021, for Salvadorans with TPS. The October
2019 announcement also stated that Salvadorans with TPS would have “an additional 365 days 2019 announcement also stated that Salvadorans with TPS would have “an additional 365 days
after the conclusion of the TPS-related lawsuits to repatriate back to their home country.”after the conclusion of the TPS-related lawsuits to repatriate back to their home country.”7981
Subsequently, to comply with court orders, DHS extended TPS-related documentation through Subsequently, to comply with court orders, DHS extended TPS-related documentation through
June 30, 2024, for individuals from El Salvador, Nicaragua, Honduras, and other specified June 30, 2024, for individuals from El Salvador, Nicaragua, Honduras, and other specified
countries.countries.8082 On June 13, 2023, DHS announced that it was rescinding the Trump Administration’s On June 13, 2023, DHS announced that it was rescinding the Trump Administration’s
termination of the TPS designation for El Salvador and extending it for 18 months (until March 9, termination of the TPS designation for El Salvador and extending it for 18 months (until March 9,
2025).2025).81
83 As of March 31, 2024, 180,375 nationals of El Salvador were covered by TPS.84 The large number of Central Americans with TPS, along with their length of U.S. residence and The large number of Central Americans with TPS, along with their length of U.S. residence and
resulting substantial economic and family ties, have led some to support extending TPS—or resulting substantial economic and family ties, have led some to support extending TPS—or
providing LPR status—for Central Americans. Supporters have argued that ongoing violence, providing LPR status—for Central Americans. Supporters have argued that ongoing violence,
political unrest, and subsequent natural disasters have left these countries unable to adequately political unrest, and subsequent natural disasters have left these countries unable to adequately
handle the return of their nationals and that a large-scale return could have negative consequences handle the return of their nationals and that a large-scale return could have negative consequences
for the U.S. economy and labor supply, American families, foreign relations, and the flow of for the U.S. economy and labor supply, American families, foreign relations, and the flow of
remittances sent by Central Americans living in the United States to their relatives in Central remittances sent by Central Americans living in the United States to their relatives in Central

~~73 U.S. Department of Homeland Security, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services, “Extension of the Designation~~
~~of Honduras for Temporary Protected Status,”82 Federal Register 59630-59636, December 15, 2017.~~
7475 U.S. Department of Homeland Security, “Secretary of Homeland Security Kirstjen M. Nielsen Announcement on U.S. Department of Homeland Security, “Secretary of Homeland Security Kirstjen M. Nielsen Announcement on
Temporary Protected Status for Honduras,” press release, May 4, 2018. Temporary Protected Status for Honduras,” press release, May 4, 2018.
7576 For more information on litigation related to TPS terminations, see CRS Legal Sidebar LSB10541, For more information on litigation related to TPS terminations, see CRS Legal Sidebar LSB10541, Termination of
Temporary Protected Status for Certain Countries: Recent Litigation Developments. .
7677 Department of Homeland Security, “DHS Rescinds Prior Administration’s Termination of Temporary Protected Department of Homeland Security, “DHS Rescinds Prior Administration’s Termination of Temporary Protected
Status Designations for El Salvador, Honduras, Nepal, and Nicaragua,” press release, June 13, 2023. Status Designations for El Salvador, Honduras, Nepal, and Nicaragua,” press release, June 13, 2023.
7778 Data provided to CRS by U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services. This number does not include TPS-approved nationals of El Salvador who subsequently obtained LPR status. 79 U.S. Department of Homeland Security, “Secretary of Homeland Security Kirstjen M. Nielsen Announcement on U.S. Department of Homeland Security, “Secretary of Homeland Security Kirstjen M. Nielsen Announcement on
Temporary Protected Status for El Salvador,” press release, January 8, 2018, https://www.dhs.gov/news/2018/01/08/Temporary Protected Status for El Salvador,” press release, January 8, 2018, https://www.dhs.gov/news/2018/01/08/
secretary-homeland-security-kirstjen-m-nielsen-announcement-temporary-protected. secretary-homeland-security-kirstjen-m-nielsen-announcement-temporary-protected.
7880 For more information on litigation related to TPS terminations, see CRS Legal Sidebar LSB10541, For more information on litigation related to TPS terminations, see CRS Legal Sidebar LSB10541, Termination of
Temporary Protected Status for Certain Countries: Recent Litigation Developments. .
7981 U.S. Department of Homeland Security, “U.S. and El Salvador Sign Arrangements on Security and Information U.S. Department of Homeland Security, “U.S. and El Salvador Sign Arrangements on Security and Information
Sharing; Give Salvadorans with TPS More Time,” press release, October 28, 2019, https://www.dhs.gov/news/2019/10/Sharing; Give Salvadorans with TPS More Time,” press release, October 28, 2019, https://www.dhs.gov/news/2019/10/
28/us-and-el-salvador-sign-arrangements-security-information-sharing-give-salvadorans. 28/us-and-el-salvador-sign-arrangements-security-information-sharing-give-salvadorans.
8082 For more information, see Department of Homeland Security, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services, For more information, see Department of Homeland Security, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services,
“Continuation of Documentation for Beneficiaries of Temporary Protected Status Designations for El Salvador, Haiti, “Continuation of Documentation for Beneficiaries of Temporary Protected Status Designations for El Salvador, Haiti,
Nicaragua, Sudan, Honduras, and Nepal,” 87Nicaragua, Sudan, Honduras, and Nepal,” 87 Federal Register 68717-68725, November 16, 2022. 68717-68725, November 16, 2022.
8183 Department of Homeland Security, “DHS Rescinds Prior Administration’s Termination of Temporary Protected Department of Homeland Security, “DHS Rescinds Prior Administration’s Termination of Temporary Protected
Status Designations for El Salvador, Honduras, Nepal, and Nicaragua,” press release, June 13, 2023. Status Designations for El Salvador, Honduras, Nepal, and Nicaragua,” press release, June 13, 2023.
84 Data provided to CRS by U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services. These numbers do not include TPS-approved nationals of Nicaragua and Honduras who subsequently obtained LPR status. Congressional Research Service Congressional Research Service

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America. America.8285 Opponents have argued that ending the TPS designations for these countries is Opponents have argued that ending the TPS designations for these countries is
consistent with congressional intent—to provide consistent with congressional intent—to provide temporary safe haven. safe haven.
Ethiopia
Armed conflict in Ethiopia’s Tigray regional state broke out in late 2020, fueling a large-scale Armed conflict in Ethiopia’s Tigray regional state broke out in late 2020, fueling a large-scale
humanitarian crisis and attracting international concern amid reports of starvation and atrocities.humanitarian crisis and attracting international concern amid reports of starvation and atrocities.8386
The conflict spread into neighboring states in 2021 before a humanitarian truce was declared in The conflict spread into neighboring states in 2021 before a humanitarian truce was declared in
March 2022. The warring parties resumed hostilities in August 2022, prompting concern by March 2022. The warring parties resumed hostilities in August 2022, prompting concern by
international observers that the renewed hostilities might spur a new wave of human rights abuses international observers that the renewed hostilities might spur a new wave of human rights abuses
and possible atrocities.and possible atrocities.8487 A ceasefire agreement signed in November 2022 brought an end to the A ceasefire agreement signed in November 2022 brought an end to the
fighting, but tensions persist, as does large-scale displacement. Armed conflict has continued in fighting, but tensions persist, as does large-scale displacement. Armed conflict has continued in
other parts of the country, including in parts of its largest and most populous region, Oromia. other parts of the country, including in parts of its largest and most populous region, Oromia.
There are also humanitarian crises linked to drought and conflict. There are also humanitarian crises linked to drought and conflict.
On October 21, 2022, DHS announced On October 21, 2022, DHS announced ~~the~~an 18-month designation of Ethiopia for TPS, citing 18-month designation of Ethiopia for TPS, citing
“conflict-related violence and a humanitarian crisis involving severe food shortages, flooding, “conflict-related violence and a humanitarian crisis involving severe food shortages, flooding,
drought, and displacement.”drought, and displacement.”8588 When announcing TPS for Ethiopia, DHS further stated When announcing TPS for Ethiopia, DHS further stated
Due to the armed conflict, civilians are at risk of conflict-related violence, including Due to the armed conflict, civilians are at risk of conflict-related violence, including
attacks, killings, rape, and other forms of gender-based violence; ethnicity-based attacks, killings, rape, and other forms of gender-based violence; ethnicity-based
detentions; and human rights violations and abuses. Extraordinary and temporary detentions; and human rights violations and abuses. Extraordinary and temporary
conditions that further prevent nationals from returning in safety include a humanitarian conditions that further prevent nationals from returning in safety include a humanitarian
crisis involving severe food insecurity, flooding, drought, large-scale displacement, and crisis involving severe food insecurity, flooding, drought, large-scale displacement, and
the impact of disease outbreaks. the impact of disease outbreaks.
Ethiopia’s 18-month designation covers individuals who were residing in the United States as of Ethiopia’s 18-month designation covers individuals who were residing in the United States as of
December 12, 2022, and is to last until June 12, 2024.December 12, 2022, and is to last until June 12, 2024.~~86 DHS estimates that approximately 26,700~~
~~Ethiopians residing in the United States as of October 20, 2022, were eligible to apply. As of~~
~~September 30, 2023, 2,285 individuals had applied for TPS under the Ethiopia designation, and~~
~~1,905 had been approved.87~~
~~Haiti~~
~~Devastation caused by a January 12, 2010, earthquake in Haiti prompted calls for the Obama~~
~~Administration to grant TPS to Haitian nationals in the United States.88 The scale of the~~

8289 Secretary Mayorkas has announced that he is extending Ethiopia’s designation for another 18 months (from June 13, 2024, through December 12, 2025) based on ongoing armed conflict and extraordinary conditions, including human rights abuses, environmental disasters, food insecurity, internal displacement, and communicable diseases outbreaks.90 Secretary Mayorkas is also redesignating Ethiopia for TPS, which will allow additional Ethiopian nationals who have been continuously residing in the United States since April 11, 2024, to apply for TPS. DHS estimated that approximately 26,700 Ethiopians residing in the United States as of October 20, 2022, were eligible to apply for TPS under the initial designation,91 and DHS estimates that approximately 12,800 individuals may 85 For information on country conditions, see CRS Report R43616, For information on country conditions, see CRS Report R43616, El Salvador: Background and U.S. Relations; CRS ; CRS
In Focus IF12247, In Focus IF12247, Nicaragua; and CRS In Focus IF11151, ; and CRS In Focus IF11151, Central American Migration: Root Causes and U.S. Policy . .
8386 See CRS Report R46905, See CRS Report R46905, Ethiopia’s Transition and the Tigray Conflict. .
8487 See, for example, The U.S. Holocaust Memorial Museum, “Museum Warns of Heightened Risk of Genocide, Mass See, for example, The U.S. Holocaust Memorial Museum, “Museum Warns of Heightened Risk of Genocide, Mass
Atrocities in Ethiopia,” October 25, 2022. Peace talks resulted in a November 2, 2022, agreement to stop the fighting, Atrocities in Ethiopia,” October 25, 2022. Peace talks resulted in a November 2, 2022, agreement to stop the fighting,
providing a possible path to peace. See U.S. Department of State, “On the African Union-led Peace Talks,” November providing a possible path to peace. See U.S. Department of State, “On the African Union-led Peace Talks,” November
2, 2022. 2, 2022.
8588 U.S. Department of Homeland Security, “DHS Designates Ethiopia for Temporary Protected Status for 18 Months,” U.S. Department of Homeland Security, “DHS Designates Ethiopia for Temporary Protected Status for 18 Months,”
press release, October 21, 2022. press release, October 21, 2022.
8689 U.S. Department of Homeland Security, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services, “Designation of Ethiopia for U.S. Department of Homeland Security, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services, “Designation of Ethiopia for
Temporary Protected Status,” 87Temporary Protected Status,” 87 Federal Register 76074-76081, December 12, 2022. 76074-76081, December 12, 2022.
~~87 Data provided to CRS by U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services. Some of these applications were pending~~
~~adjudication. The 1,905 approvals include 25 individuals who had obtained LPR status as of September 30, 2023, and~~
~~are therefore not included in the data presented in Table 1.~~
~~88 The issue of Haitian TPS had arisen several times prior, most notably after the U.S. Ambassador declared Haiti a~~
~~disaster in September 2004 due to the magnitude of the effects of Tropical Storm Jeanne. A series of tropical cyclones~~
~~(continued...)~~
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90 U.S. Department of Homeland Security, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services, “Extension and Redesignation of Ethiopia for Temporary Protected Status,” 89 Federal Register 26172-26180, April 15, 2024. 91 U.S. Department of Homeland Security, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services, “Designation of Ethiopia for Temporary Protected Status,” 87 Federal Register 76074-76081, December 12, 2022. Congressional Research Service 13 Temporary Protected Status and Deferred Enforced Departure become newly eligible for TPS under the redesignation of Ethiopia. As of March 31, 2024, 2,330 nationals of Ethiopia were covered by TPS.92 Haiti Devastation caused by a January 12, 2010, earthquake in Haiti prompted calls for the Obama Administration to grant TPS to Haitian nationals in the United States.93 The scale of the humanitarian crisis after the earthquake—with estimates of thousands of Haitians dead and humanitarian crisis after the earthquake—with estimates of thousands of Haitians dead and
reports of the total collapse of Port au Prince’s infrastructure—led DHS to grant TPS for 18 reports of the total collapse of Port au Prince’s infrastructure—led DHS to grant TPS for 18
months to Haitian nationals who were in the United States as of January 12, 2010.months to Haitian nationals who were in the United States as of January 12, 2010.8994 At the time, At the time,
then-DHS Secretary Janet Napolitano stated: “Providing a temporary refuge for Haitian nationals then-DHS Secretary Janet Napolitano stated: “Providing a temporary refuge for Haitian nationals
who are currently in the United States and whose personal safety would be endangered by who are currently in the United States and whose personal safety would be endangered by
returning to Haiti is part of this Administration’s continuing efforts to support Haiti’s recovery.”returning to Haiti is part of this Administration’s continuing efforts to support Haiti’s recovery.”9095
DHS extended the TPS designation for Haiti in May 2011, providing another 18 months of TPS, DHS extended the TPS designation for Haiti in May 2011, providing another 18 months of TPS,
through January 22, 2013.through January 22, 2013.9196 At the same time, DHS issued a redesignation, enabling eligible At the same time, DHS issued a redesignation, enabling eligible
Haitian nationals who had arrived in the United States up to one year after the earthquake to Haitian nationals who had arrived in the United States up to one year after the earthquake to
receive TPS. The redesignation targeted individuals who were allowed to enter the United States receive TPS. The redesignation targeted individuals who were allowed to enter the United States
immediately after the earthquake on temporary visas or humanitarian parole,immediately after the earthquake on temporary visas or humanitarian parole,9297 but were not but were not
covered by the initial TPS designation.covered by the initial TPS designation.9398 Subsequently, then-Secretary Jeh Johnson extended Subsequently, then-Secretary Jeh Johnson extended
Haiti’s designation several more times, through July 22, 2017.Haiti’s designation several more times, through July 22, 2017.9499
A May 2, 2017, letter from members of the Congressional Black Caucus to then-DHS Secretary A May 2, 2017, letter from members of the Congressional Black Caucus to then-DHS Secretary
John Kelly urged another 18-month extension of TPS for Haiti, citing continued recovery John Kelly urged another 18-month extension of TPS for Haiti, citing continued recovery
difficulties from the 2010 earthquake that killed over 300,000 people, an ongoing cholera difficulties from the 2010 earthquake that killed over 300,000 people, an ongoing cholera
epidemic, and additional damages from Hurricane Matthew in 2016.epidemic, and additional damages from Hurricane Matthew in 2016.95100 On May 24, 2017, Kelly On May 24, 2017, Kelly
extended Haiti’s TPS designation for six months (the minimum allowed by statute), from its extended Haiti’s TPS designation for six months (the minimum allowed by statute), from its
planned expiration on July 22, 2017, to January 22, 2018, and encouraged beneficiaries to prepare planned expiration on July 22, 2017, to January 22, 2018, and encouraged beneficiaries to prepare
~~to return to Haiti should its designation be terminated after six months.96 An October 4, 2017,~~
~~letter from the Haitian ambassador to then-Acting DHS Secretary Elaine Duke requested that~~
~~Haiti’s designation be extended for an additional 18 months.97 On November 20, 2017, DHS~~
~~announced its decision to terminate TPS for Haiti, with an 18-month transition period. Its~~

92 Data provided to CRS by U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services. This number does not include TPS-approved nationals of Ethiopia who subsequently obtained LPR status. 93 The issue of Haitian TPS had arisen several times prior, most notably after the U.S. Ambassador declared Haiti a disaster in September 2004 due to the magnitude of the effects of Tropical Storm Jeanne. A series of tropical cyclones in 2008 resulted in hundreds of deaths and led some to label the city of Gonaives uninhabitable. The George W. Bush in 2008 resulted in hundreds of deaths and led some to label the city of Gonaives uninhabitable. The George W. Bush
Administration did not grant TPS or another form of blanket relief to Haitians, nor was legislation enacted that would Administration did not grant TPS or another form of blanket relief to Haitians, nor was legislation enacted that would
have provided TPS to Haitians, such as H.R. 522 in the 110th Congress. For background information on Haitian have provided TPS to Haitians, such as H.R. 522 in the 110th Congress. For background information on Haitian
migration to the United States, see archived CRS Report RS21349, migration to the United States, see archived CRS Report RS21349, U.S. Immigration Policy on Haitian Migrants. .
8994 U.S. Department of Homeland Security, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services, “Designation of Haiti for U.S. Department of Homeland Security, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services, “Designation of Haiti for
Temporary Protected Status,” 75Temporary Protected Status,” 75 Federal Register 3476-3479, January 21, 2010. 3476-3479, January 21, 2010.
9095 U.S. Department of Homeland Security, “Statement from Secretary Janet Napolitano,” press release, January 15, U.S. Department of Homeland Security, “Statement from Secretary Janet Napolitano,” press release, January 15,
2010. 2010.
9196 U.S. Department of Homeland Security, “Secretary Napolitano Announces Extension of Temporary Protected Status U.S. Department of Homeland Security, “Secretary Napolitano Announces Extension of Temporary Protected Status
for Haitian Beneficiaries,” press release, May 17, 2011. for Haitian Beneficiaries,” press release, May 17, 2011.
9297 Parole allows an individual, who may be inadmissible or otherwise ineligible for admission into the United States, to Parole allows an individual, who may be inadmissible or otherwise ineligible for admission into the United States, to
be granted authorization to enter the United State for a temporary period. INA §212(d)(5) (8 U.S.C. §1182(d)(5)). For be granted authorization to enter the United State for a temporary period. INA §212(d)(5) (8 U.S.C. §1182(d)(5)). For
more information, see CRS Report R46570, more information, see CRS Report R46570, Immigration Parole. .
9398 U.S. Department of Homeland Security, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services, “Extension and Re-designation U.S. Department of Homeland Security, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services, “Extension and Re-designation
of Haiti for Temporary Protected Status,” 76 of Haiti for Temporary Protected Status,” 76 Federal Register 29000-29004, May 19, 2011. 29000-29004, May 19, 2011.
9499 U.S. Department of Homeland Security, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services, “Extension of the Designation U.S. Department of Homeland Security, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services, “Extension of the Designation
of Haiti for Temporary Protected Status,” 80of Haiti for Temporary Protected Status,” 80 Federal Register 51582-51588, August 25, 2015. 51582-51588, August 25, 2015.
95 100 For conditions following Hurricane Matthew, see CRS In Focus IF10502, For conditions following Hurricane Matthew, see CRS In Focus IF10502, Haiti: Cholera, the United Nations, and
Hurricane Matthew. .
~~96 U.S. Department of Homeland Security, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services, “Extension of the Designation~~
~~of Haiti for Temporary Protected Status,” 82 Federal Register 23830-23837, May 24, 2017.~~
~~97 Letter from Paul G. Altidor, Ambassador to the United States from Haiti, to Elaine C. Duke, Acting Secretary of the~~
~~Department of Homeland Security, October 4, 2017.~~
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~~designation was set to terminate on July 22, 2019,98 but the termination was put on hold due to~~
~~legal challenges.99~~Congressional Research Service 14 Temporary Protected Status and Deferred Enforced Departure to return to Haiti should its designation be terminated after six months.101 An October 4, 2017, letter from the Haitian ambassador to then-Acting DHS Secretary Elaine Duke requested that Haiti’s designation be extended for an additional 18 months.102 On November 20, 2017, DHS announced its decision to terminate TPS for Haiti, with an 18-month transition period. Its designation was set to terminate on July 22, 2019,103 but the termination was put on hold due to legal challenges.104
On May 22, 2021, Secretary Mayorkas announced a new, 18-month TPS designation for Haiti On May 22, 2021, Secretary Mayorkas announced a new, 18-month TPS designation for Haiti
based on extraordinary and temporary conditions, stating, “Haiti is currently experiencing serious based on extraordinary and temporary conditions, stating, “Haiti is currently experiencing serious
security concerns, social unrest, an increase in human rights abuses, crippling poverty, and lack of security concerns, social unrest, an increase in human rights abuses, crippling poverty, and lack of
basic resources, which are exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic.”basic resources, which are exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic.”~~100~~105 The announcement The announcement
followed months of pressure from immigration advocates and some Members of Congress, followed months of pressure from immigration advocates and some Members of Congress,
including the chair and ranking member of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee.including the chair and ranking member of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee.~~101~~106 DHS DHS
estimated that 155,000 Haitians would be eligible under this designation,estimated that 155,000 Haitians would be eligible under this designation,~~102~~107 which included which included
individuals who were already covered by the separate TPS designation that began in 2010. In individuals who were already covered by the separate TPS designation that began in 2010. In
December 2022, DHS extended Haiti’s designation for another 18 months and at the same time December 2022, DHS extended Haiti’s designation for another 18 months and at the same time
redesignated Haiti for TPS, allowing Haitian nationals who had arrived in the United States by redesignated Haiti for TPS, allowing Haitian nationals who had arrived in the United States by
November 6, 2022, to apply.November 6, 2022, to apply.~~103~~108 DHS estimated that an additional 105,100 Haitians would be DHS estimated that an additional 105,100 Haitians would be
eligible to apply under this redesignation. As of eligible to apply under this redesignation. As of ~~September 30, 2023, 164,235 Haitians~~March 31, 2024, 200,005 nationals of Haiti were were
covered by TPS.covered by TPS.~~104~~109
Hong Kong
Following large-scale protests in 2019, China imposed a sweeping National Security Law on Following large-scale protests in 2019, China imposed a sweeping National Security Law on
Hong Kong in 2020 that many see as violating a 1984 Sino-British treaty which stated that Hong Hong Kong in 2020 that many see as violating a 1984 Sino-British treaty which stated that Hong
Kong’s social and economic systems and individual rights and freedoms would remain unchanged Kong’s social and economic systems and individual rights and freedoms would remain unchanged
until at least 2047 and in which China promised to give Hong Kong a “high degree of until at least 2047 and in which China promised to give Hong Kong a “high degree of
autonomy.”autonomy.”~~105~~110 In February 2021, after Hong Kong authorities charged pro-democracy politicians In February 2021, after Hong Kong authorities charged pro-democracy politicians
~~and activists with subversion under the new law, U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken called~~
~~for their immediate release, stating, “Political participation and freedom of expression should not~~
~~be crimes.”106 On August 5, 2021, President Biden granted DED to certain Hong Kong residents~~
~~in the United States citing the “significant erosion” of human rights and fundamental freedoms.107~~

98 101 U.S. Department of Homeland Security, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services, “Extension of the Designation of Haiti for Temporary Protected Status,” 82 Federal Register 23830-23837, May 24, 2017. 102 Letter from Paul G. Altidor, Ambassador to the United States from Haiti, to Elaine C. Duke, Acting Secretary of the Department of Homeland Security, October 4, 2017. 103 U.S. Department of Homeland Security, “Acting Secretary Elaine Duke Announcement On Temporary Protected U.S. Department of Homeland Security, “Acting Secretary Elaine Duke Announcement On Temporary Protected
Status For Haiti,” press release, November 20, 2017, https://www.dhs.gov/news/2017/11/20/acting-secretary-elaine-Status For Haiti,” press release, November 20, 2017, https://www.dhs.gov/news/2017/11/20/acting-secretary-elaine-
duke-announcement-temporary-protected-status-haiti. duke-announcement-temporary-protected-status-haiti.
99104 For more information on litigation related to TPS terminations, see CRS Legal Sidebar LSB10541, For more information on litigation related to TPS terminations, see CRS Legal Sidebar LSB10541, Termination of
Temporary Protected Status for Certain Countries: Recent Litigation Developments. .
~~100~~105 Department of Homeland Security, “Secretary Mayorkas Designates Haiti for Temporary Protected Status for 18 Department of Homeland Security, “Secretary Mayorkas Designates Haiti for Temporary Protected Status for 18
months,” press release, May 22, 2021, https://www.dhs.gov/news/2021/05/22/secretary-mayorkas-designates-haiti-months,” press release, May 22, 2021, https://www.dhs.gov/news/2021/05/22/secretary-mayorkas-designates-haiti-
temporary-protected-status-18-months. For further information on country conditions, see the “Haiti” section in CRS temporary-protected-status-18-months. For further information on country conditions, see the “Haiti” section in CRS
Report R46781, Report R46781, Latin America and the Caribbean: U.S. Policy and Key Issues in the 117th Congress. .
~~101~~106 Senate Foreign Relations Committee, “Menendez, Rubio Urge Biden Administration to Re-designate Haiti for Senate Foreign Relations Committee, “Menendez, Rubio Urge Biden Administration to Re-designate Haiti for
TPS,” press release, March 12, 2021, https://www.foreign.senate.gov/press/chair/release/-menendez-rubio-urge-biden-TPS,” press release, March 12, 2021, https://www.foreign.senate.gov/press/chair/release/-menendez-rubio-urge-biden-
administration-to_re-designate-haiti-for-tps. administration-to_re-designate-haiti-for-tps.
~~102~~107 U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services, “Designation of Haiti for Temporary Protected Status,” 86 U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services, “Designation of Haiti for Temporary Protected Status,” 86 Federal
Register 41863-41871, August 3, 2021. 41863-41871, August 3, 2021.
~~103~~108 Department of Homeland Security, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services, “Extension and Redesignation of Department of Homeland Security, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services, “Extension and Redesignation of
Haiti for Temporary Protected Status,” 88Haiti for Temporary Protected Status,” 88 Federal Register 5022-5032, January 26, 2023. 5022-5032, January 26, 2023.
~~104~~109 Data provided to CRS by U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services. This number does not include TPS-approved Data provided to CRS by U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services. This number does not include TPS-approved
~~Haitians~~nationals of Haiti who subsequently obtained LPR status. who subsequently obtained LPR status.
~~105~~110 See CRS In Focus IF10119, See CRS In Focus IF10119, China Primer: U.S.-China Relations. .
~~106 Ibid.~~
~~107 The White House (President Biden), Office of the Press Secretary, “Memorandum on the Deferred Enforced~~
~~Departure for Certain Hong Kong Residents,” presidential memorandum for the Secretary of State and the Secretary of~~
~~Homeland Security, August 5, 2021.~~
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Congressional Research Service 15 Temporary Protected Status and Deferred Enforced Departure and activists with subversion under the new law, U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken called for their immediate release, stating, “Political participation and freedom of expression should not be crimes.”111 On August 5, 2021, President Biden granted DED to certain Hong Kong residents in the United States citing the “significant erosion” of human rights and fundamental freedoms.112 Under this directive, eligible individuals could apply to DHS for work authorization and were not Under this directive, eligible individuals could apply to DHS for work authorization and were not
subject to removal from the United States for the next 18 months. DHS estimated that the Hong subject to removal from the United States for the next 18 months. DHS estimated that the Hong
Kong population eligible for DED Kong population eligible for DED ~~was 3,860 in March 2021.108~~in March 2021was 3,860.113 On January 26, 2023, President On January 26, 2023, President
Biden announced a two-year extension (through February 5, 2025) of DED for certain Hong Biden announced a two-year extension (through February 5, 2025) of DED for certain Hong
Kong residents, including those who arrived in the United States by January 26, 2023.Kong residents, including those who arrived in the United States by January 26, 2023.~~109~~114
Liberia
Liberians in the United States first received TPS in March 1991 following the outbreak of civil Liberians in the United States first received TPS in March 1991 following the outbreak of civil
war and were subsequently covered by TPS through September 1999.war and were subsequently covered by TPS through September 1999.~~110~~115 In September 1999, In September 1999,
when their TPS designation expired, President Clinton authorized DED for an estimated 10,000 Liberians in the United StatesPresident Clinton authorized DED for an estimated 10,000 Liberians in the United States ~~when~~
~~their TPS designation expired~~. DED was subsequently extended by President Clinton and . DED was subsequently extended by President Clinton and
President George W. Bush to September 29, 2002. On October 1, 2002, Liberia was designated President George W. Bush to September 29, 2002. On October 1, 2002, Liberia was designated
again for TPS due to ongoing armed conflict.again for TPS due to ongoing armed conflict.~~111~~116 In 2006, the George W. Bush Administration In 2006, the George W. Bush Administration
announced that TPS for Liberia would expire on October 1, 2007, but that covered Liberians announced that TPS for Liberia would expire on October 1, 2007, but that covered Liberians
would be eligible for DED until March 31, 2009. On March 23, 2009, President Obama extended would be eligible for DED until March 31, 2009. On March 23, 2009, President Obama extended
DED for those Liberians until March 31, 2010, and several times thereafter.DED for those Liberians until March 31, 2010, and several times thereafter.~~112~~117
As a result of the 2014-2016 Ebola outbreak in West Africa, the Obama Administration As a result of the 2014-2016 Ebola outbreak in West Africa, the Obama Administration
designated Liberia for TPS again, along with Sierra Leone and Guinea.designated Liberia for TPS again, along with Sierra Leone and Guinea.~~113~~118 This TPS designation This TPS designation
was set to expire on November 21, 2016, but was extended for six additional months, through was set to expire on November 21, 2016, but was extended for six additional months, through
May 21, 2017.May 21, 2017.~~114~~119 This extension was granted in order to provide an “orderly transition” for This extension was granted in order to provide an “orderly transition” for
beneficiaries to “prepare for and arrange their departure from the United States or … to apply for beneficiaries to “prepare for and arrange their departure from the United States or … to apply for
~~other immigration benefits for which they are eligible.”115 Similar termination notices were issued~~
~~for Sierra Leone and Guinea.~~
~~President Obama extended, through March 31, 2018, the DED grant for a specially designated~~
~~population of Liberians who had been residing in the United States since October 2002.116 On~~
~~March 27, 2018, President Trump announced that, while a further DED extension was not~~

~~108 Email to CRS from USCIS, January 7, 2022.~~
~~109~~ 111 Ibid. 112 The White House (President Biden), Office of the Press Secretary, “Memorandum on the Deferred Enforced Departure for Certain Hong Kong Residents,” presidential memorandum for the Secretary of State and the Secretary of Homeland Security, August 5, 2021. 113 Email to CRS from USCIS, January 7, 2022. 114 The White House (President Biden), Office of the Press Secretary, “Memorandum on Extending and Expanding The White House (President Biden), Office of the Press Secretary, “Memorandum on Extending and Expanding
Eligibility for Deferred Enforced Departure for Certain Hong Kong Residents,” presidential memorandum for the Eligibility for Deferred Enforced Departure for Certain Hong Kong Residents,” presidential memorandum for the
Secretary of State and the Secretary of Homeland Security, January 26, 2023. Secretary of State and the Secretary of Homeland Security, January 26, 2023.
~~110~~115 See archived CRS Report RL32243, See archived CRS Report RL32243, Liberia: Transition to Peace. .
~~111~~116 U.S. Department of Justice, Immigration and Naturalization Service, “Designation of Liberia Under the Temporary U.S. Department of Justice, Immigration and Naturalization Service, “Designation of Liberia Under the Temporary
Protected Status Program,” 67Protected Status Program,” 67 Federal Register 61664-61667, October 1, 2002. 61664-61667, October 1, 2002.
~~112~~117 See, for example, U.S. Department of Homeland Security, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services, “Filing See, for example, U.S. Department of Homeland Security, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services, “Filing
Procedures and Automatic Extension of Employment Authorization and Related Documentation for Liberians Provided Procedures and Automatic Extension of Employment Authorization and Related Documentation for Liberians Provided
Deferred Enforced Departure,” 75Deferred Enforced Departure,” 75 Federal Register 15715, March 30, 2010; The White House (President Obama), 15715, March 30, 2010; The White House (President Obama),
Office of the Press Secretary, “Deferred Enforced Departure for Liberians,” presidential memorandum for the Secretary Office of the Press Secretary, “Deferred Enforced Departure for Liberians,” presidential memorandum for the Secretary
of Homeland Security, September 28, 2016. of Homeland Security, September 28, 2016.
~~113~~118 U.S. Department of Homeland Security, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services, “Designation of Liberia for U.S. Department of Homeland Security, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services, “Designation of Liberia for
Temporary Protected Status,” 79Temporary Protected Status,” 79 Federal Register 69502-69502, November 21, 2014; and U.S. Department of 69502-69502, November 21, 2014; and U.S. Department of
Homeland Security, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services, “Extension of the Initial Registration Period for Homeland Security, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services, “Extension of the Initial Registration Period for
Guinea, Liberia and Sierra Leone for Temporary Protected Status,” 80Guinea, Liberia and Sierra Leone for Temporary Protected Status,” 80 Federal Register, Number 122, 36551-36552,
June 25, 2015. June 25, 2015.
~~114~~
~~115 U.S. Department of Homeland Security, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services, “Six-Month Extension of~~
~~Temporary Protected Status Benefits for Orderly Transition Before Termination of Liberia’s Designation for~~
~~Temporary Protected Status,” 81 Federal Register 66059-66064, September 26, 2016.~~
~~116 The White House (President Obama), Office of the Press Secretary, “Deferred Enforced Departure for Liberians,”~~
~~presidential memorandum for the Secretary of Homeland Security, September 28, 2016.~~
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119 Congressional Research Service 16 Temporary Protected Status and Deferred Enforced Departure other immigration benefits for which they are eligible.”120 Similar notices were issued for Sierra Leone and Guinea. President Obama extended, through March 31, 2018, the DED grant for a specially designated population of Liberians who had been residing in the United States since October 2002.121 On March 27, 2018, President Trump announced that, while a further DED extension was not warranted due to improved conditions in Liberia, U.S. foreign policy interests warranted a 12-warranted due to improved conditions in Liberia, U.S. foreign policy interests warranted a 12-
month wind-down period.month wind-down period.~~117~~122 A lawsuit challenging the termination was filed in federal court on A lawsuit challenging the termination was filed in federal court on
March 8, 2019.March 8, 2019.~~118~~123 Three days before the effective DED termination date, President Trump—citing Three days before the effective DED termination date, President Trump—citing
congressional efforts to provide longer-term relief for Liberians—announced a 12-month congressional efforts to provide longer-term relief for Liberians—announced a 12-month
extension of the wind-down period, to last through March 30, 2020.extension of the wind-down period, to last through March 30, 2020.~~119~~124
On March 30, 2020, President Trump again delayed the effective date of the termination (this On March 30, 2020, President Trump again delayed the effective date of the termination (this
time to January 10, 2021) in order to provide continuous employment authorization to Liberians time to January 10, 2021) in order to provide continuous employment authorization to Liberians
eligible to adjust their status under the recently enacted Liberian Refugee Immigration Fairness eligible to adjust their status under the recently enacted Liberian Refugee Immigration Fairness
provision (LRIF). LRIF, enacted by the 116th Congress as Section 7611 of the FY2020 National provision (LRIF). LRIF, enacted by the 116th Congress as Section 7611 of the FY2020 National
Defense Authorization Act (NDAA, P.L. 116-92, signed into law by President Trump on Defense Authorization Act (NDAA, P.L. 116-92, signed into law by President Trump on
December 20, 2019), allowed Liberians who had been continuously present in the United States December 20, 2019), allowed Liberians who had been continuously present in the United States
since November 2014 and their family members to apply for LPR status. The deadline for since November 2014 and their family members to apply for LPR status. The deadline for
submitting LRIF applications was December 20, 2021.submitting LRIF applications was December 20, 2021.~~120~~
~~Liberia’s~~125 The DED grant DED grant for Liberia expired on January 10, 2021. On his first day in office, President Biden expired on January 10, 2021. On his first day in office, President Biden
reinstated DED through June 30, 2022, for Liberians who had been covered by the most recent reinstated DED through June 30, 2022, for Liberians who had been covered by the most recent
DED grant, citing foreign policy reasons and a desire to provide protection and work DED grant, citing foreign policy reasons and a desire to provide protection and work
authorization for Liberians in the process of adjusting status under LRIF.authorization for Liberians in the process of adjusting status under LRIF.~~121~~126 In June 2022, In June 2022,
President Biden extended DED by two years and expanded eligibility to include Liberians who President Biden extended DED by two years and expanded eligibility to include Liberians who
have been continuously present in the United States since May 20, 2017.have been continuously present in the United States since May 20, 2017.~~122~~127 This date aligns with This date aligns with
the end of Liberia’s most recent TPS designation and thus allows certain individuals who may be the end of Liberia’s most recent TPS designation and thus allows certain individuals who may be
eligible for LRIF and/or were not covered by the prior DED grant to receive protection from eligible for LRIF and/or were not covered by the prior DED grant to receive protection from
removal and work authorization. In his memorandum extending DED, President Biden stated, removal and work authorization. In his memorandum extending DED, President Biden stated,
“Providing protection from removal and work authorization to these Liberians, for whom we have “Providing protection from removal and work authorization to these Liberians, for whom we have
long authorized TPS or DED in the United States, including while they complete the LRIF status-long authorized TPS or DED in the United States, including while they complete the LRIF status-
~~adjustment process, honors the historic close relationship between the United States and Liberia~~
~~and is in the foreign policy interests of the United States.”123~~
~~Nepal~~
~~Nepal was devastated by a massive earthquake on April 25, 2015, killing over 8,000 people. The~~
~~earthquake and subsequent aftershocks demolished much of Nepal’s housing and infrastructure in~~

~~117~~ 120 U.S. Department of Homeland Security, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services, “Six-Month Extension of Temporary Protected Status Benefits for Orderly Transition Before Termination of Liberia’s Designation for Temporary Protected Status,” 81 Federal Register 66059-66064, September 26, 2016. 121 The White House (President Obama), Office of the Press Secretary, “Deferred Enforced Departure for Liberians,” presidential memorandum for the Secretary of Homeland Security, September 28, 2016. 122 The White House (President Trump), Office of the Press Secretary, “Expiration of Deferred Enforced Departure for The White House (President Trump), Office of the Press Secretary, “Expiration of Deferred Enforced Departure for
Liberians,” presidential memorandum for the Secretary of State and the Secretary of Homeland Security, March 27, Liberians,” presidential memorandum for the Secretary of State and the Secretary of Homeland Security, March 27,
2018. 2018.
~~118~~123 Complaint, African Cmtys. Together v. Trump, No. 1:19-cv-10432 (D. Mass. Mar. 8, 2019). Complaint, African Cmtys. Together v. Trump, No. 1:19-cv-10432 (D. Mass. Mar. 8, 2019).
~~119~~124 The White House (President Trump), Office of the Press Secretary, “Extension of Deferred Enforced Departure for The White House (President Trump), Office of the Press Secretary, “Extension of Deferred Enforced Departure for
Liberians,” presidential memorandum for the Secretary of State and the Secretary of Homeland Security, March 28, Liberians,” presidential memorandum for the Secretary of State and the Secretary of Homeland Security, March 28,
2019. 2019.
~~120~~125 The initial application deadline was December 20, 2020, but Section 901 of the Consolidated Appropriations Act, The initial application deadline was December 20, 2020, but Section 901 of the Consolidated Appropriations Act,
2021 (P.L. 116-260) extended the deadline to apply for LRIF by one year (to December 20, 2021). 2021 (P.L. 116-260) extended the deadline to apply for LRIF by one year (to December 20, 2021).
~~121~~126 The White House (President Biden), Office of the Press Secretary, “Reinstating Deferred Enforced Departure for The White House (President Biden), Office of the Press Secretary, “Reinstating Deferred Enforced Departure for
Liberians,” presidential memorandum for the Secretary of State and the Secretary of Homeland Security, January 20, Liberians,” presidential memorandum for the Secretary of State and the Secretary of Homeland Security, January 20,
2021. 2021.
~~122~~127 The White House (President Biden), Office of the Press Secretary, “Extending and Expanding Eligibility for The White House (President Biden), Office of the Press Secretary, “Extending and Expanding Eligibility for
Deferred Enforced Departure for Liberians,” presidential memorandum for the Secretary of State and the Secretary of Deferred Enforced Departure for Liberians,” presidential memorandum for the Secretary of State and the Secretary of
Homeland Security, June 27, 2022. Homeland Security, June 27, 2022.
~~123 Ibid.~~
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adjustment process, honors the historic close relationship between the United States and Liberia and is in the foreign policy interests of the United States.”128 Nepal Nepal was devastated by a massive earthquake on April 25, 2015, killing over 8,000 people. The earthquake and subsequent aftershocks demolished much of Nepal’s housing and infrastructure in many areas. Over half a million homes were reportedly destroyed.many areas. Over half a million homes were reportedly destroyed.~~124~~129 On June 24, 2015, citing a On June 24, 2015, citing a
substantial but temporary disruption in living conditions as a result of the earthquake, then-DHS substantial but temporary disruption in living conditions as a result of the earthquake, then-DHS
Secretary Jeh Johnson designated Nepal for TPS for an 18-month period.Secretary Jeh Johnson designated Nepal for TPS for an 18-month period.~~125~~130 TPS for Nepal was TPS for Nepal was
extended for 18 months in October 2016.extended for 18 months in October 2016.~~126~~131 On April 26, 2018, then-Secretary Kirstjen Nielsen On April 26, 2018, then-Secretary Kirstjen Nielsen
announced her decision to terminate the TPS designation for Nepal, citing her assessment that the announced her decision to terminate the TPS designation for Nepal, citing her assessment that the
original conditions under which the country was designated were no longer substantial and that original conditions under which the country was designated were no longer substantial and that
Nepal could adequately handle the return of its nationals.Nepal could adequately handle the return of its nationals.~~127~~132 A 12-month delay of the termination A 12-month delay of the termination
date to allow for an orderly transition was also announced; the TPS designation for Nepal was date to allow for an orderly transition was also announced; the TPS designation for Nepal was
thus set to terminate on June 24, 2019.thus set to terminate on June 24, 2019.~~128~~133 The termination was put on hold due to a legal The termination was put on hold due to a legal
challenge.challenge.~~129~~134 On June 13, 2023, DHS announced that it was rescinding the Trump On June 13, 2023, DHS announced that it was rescinding the Trump
Administration’s termination of Nepal’s designation (along with those for three Central American Administration’s termination of Nepal’s designation (along with those for three Central American
countries, as described above) and extending itcountries, as described above) and extending it for an additional 18 months, through June 24, 18 months, through June 24, 2025.135 As of March 31, 2024, 7,875 nationals of Nepal were covered by TPS.136 Palestinians On October 7, 2023, the Palestinian Sunni Islamist group Hamas led surprise attacks against Israel from the Gaza Strip. More than 1,200 Israelis and foreign nationals (including at least 35 U.S. citizens in Israel) were killed. Hamas and other groups also seized 253 hostages on October 7. In response to the October 7 attacks, Israel declared war on Hamas and launched aerial bombardment and ground operations in Gaza. As of April 30, 2024, according to the Hamas-controlled Gaza health ministry, more than 34,000 Palestinians in Gaza had been killed. The conflict’s impact in Gaza, with an estimated 1.7 million Gazans displaced (out of a population of approximately 2.1 million people) has generated a humanitarian crisis.137 128 Ibid. 129~~2025.130~~
~~Somalia~~
~~Somalia has endured decades of chronic instability and humanitarian crises. Since the collapse of~~
~~the authoritarian Siad Barre regime in 1991, it has lacked a viable central authority capable of~~
~~exerting territorial control, securing its borders, or providing security and services to its people.131~~
~~Somalia was first designated for TPS in 1991 based on “extraordinary and temporary conditions~~
~~… that prevent aliens who are nationals of Somalia from returning to Somalia in safety.”132~~
~~Through 26 subsequent extensions or redesignations, Somalia has maintained TPS due to~~
~~insecurity and ongoing armed conflict that present serious threats to the safety of returnees. Most~~
~~recently, DHS Secretary Mayorkas extended Somalia’s designation for another 18 months~~
~~through September 17, 2024; at the same time, he redesignated Somalia, moving the cutoff date~~
~~forward and thereby allowing additional individuals who have been continuously residing in the~~
~~United States since January 11, 2023, to apply.133 DHS estimated that approximately 2,200~~
~~individuals may become newly eligible for TPS under the redesignation of Somalia.134~~

~~124~~ See CRS Report R44303, See CRS Report R44303, Nepal: Political Developments and U.S. Relations. For information on more recent . For information on more recent
country conditions, see CRS In Focus IF10216, country conditions, see CRS In Focus IF10216, Nepal. .
~~125~~130 U.S. Department of U.S. Department of ~~Justice, Immigration and Nationalization Service~~Homeland Security, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services, “Designation of Nepal for Temporary , “Designation of Nepal for Temporary
Protected Status,” 80 Protected Status,” 80 Federal Register 36346-36350, June 24, 2015. 36346-36350, June 24, 2015.
~~126~~131 U.S. Department of Homeland Security, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services, “Extensions of the Designation U.S. Department of Homeland Security, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services, “Extensions of the Designation
of Nepal for Temporary Protected Status,” 81of Nepal for Temporary Protected Status,” 81 Federal Register 74470-74475, October 26, 2016. 74470-74475, October 26, 2016.
~~127~~132 U.S. Department of Homeland Security, “Secretary Kirstjen M. Nielsen Announcement on Temporary Protected U.S. Department of Homeland Security, “Secretary Kirstjen M. Nielsen Announcement on Temporary Protected
Status for Nepal,” press release, April 26, 2018, https://www.dhs.gov/news/2018/04/26/secretary-kirstjen-m-nielsen-Status for Nepal,” press release, April 26, 2018, https://www.dhs.gov/news/2018/04/26/secretary-kirstjen-m-nielsen-
announcement-temporary-protected-status-nepal. announcement-temporary-protected-status-nepal.
~~128~~133 Ibid. Ibid.
~~129~~134 For more information on litigation related to TPS terminations, see CRS Legal Sidebar LSB10541, For more information on litigation related to TPS terminations, see CRS Legal Sidebar LSB10541, Termination of
Temporary Protected Status for Certain Countries: Recent Litigation Developments. .
~~130~~135 U.S. Department of Homeland Security, “DHS Rescinds Prior Administration’s Termination of Temporary U.S. Department of Homeland Security, “DHS Rescinds Prior Administration’s Termination of Temporary
Protected Status Designations for El Salvador, Honduras, Nepal, and Nicaragua,” press release, June 13, 2023. Protected Status Designations for El Salvador, Honduras, Nepal, and Nicaragua,” press release, June 13, 2023.
~~131 See CRS In Focus IF10155, Somalia.~~
~~132 U.S. Department of Justice, Immigration and Nationalization Service, “Designation of Nationals of Somalia for~~
~~Temporary Protected Status,” 56 Federal Register 46804-46805, September 16, 1991.~~
~~133 U.S. Department of Homeland Security, United States Citizenship and Immigration Services, “Extension and~~
~~Redesignation of Somalia for Temporary Protected Status,” 88 Federal Register 15434-15443, March 13, 2023.~~
~~134 Ibid.~~
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~~Sudan and South Sudan~~
~~Decades of civil war preceded South Sudan’s secession from the Republic of Sudan in 2011.135~~136 Data provided to CRS by U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services. This number does not include TPS-approved nationals of Nepal who subsequently obtained LPR status. 137 This paragraph is adapted from CRS Report R47828, Israel and Hamas Conflict In Brief: Overview, U.S. Policy, and Options for Congress. Congressional Research Service 18 Temporary Protected Status and Deferred Enforced Departure Citing “significantly deteriorated” humanitarian conditions in the “Palestinian territories, and primarily Gaza,” President Biden issued a memorandum on February 14, 2024, granting DED to certain Palestinians in the United States.138 Under this designation, eligible individuals can apply to DHS for work authorization and are not subject to removal from the United States for 18 months from the date of the memorandum. Non-U.S. citizens of any nationality (or those with no nationality) who are Palestinian are eligible. Individuals who have returned voluntarily to the “Palestinian territories” (the West Bank and Gaza) after February 14, 2024, or who have not continuously resided in the United States since February 14, 2024, are ineligible. Palestinians who pose certain security or foreign policy risks are also ineligible.139 Somalia Somalia has endured decades of chronic instability and humanitarian crises. Since the collapse of the authoritarian Siad Barre regime in 1991, it has lacked a viable central authority capable of exerting territorial control, securing its borders, or providing security and services to its people.140 Somalia was first designated for TPS in 1991 based on “extraordinary and temporary conditions … that prevent aliens who are nationals of Somalia from returning to Somalia in safety.”141 Through 26 subsequent extensions or redesignations, Somalia has maintained TPS due to insecurity and ongoing armed conflict that present serious threats to the safety of returnees. Most recently, DHS Secretary Mayorkas extended Somalia’s designation for another 18 months through September 17, 2024; at the same time, he redesignated Somalia, moving the cutoff date forward and thereby allowing additional individuals who have been continuously residing in the United States since January 11, 2023, to apply.142 DHS estimated that approximately 2,200 individuals may become newly eligible for TPS under the redesignation of Somalia.143 As of March 31, 2024, 555 nationals of Somalia were covered by TPS.144 Sudan and South Sudan Decades of civil war preceded South Sudan’s secession from the Republic of Sudan in 2011.145
Citing both ongoing armed conflict and extraordinary and temporary conditions that would Citing both ongoing armed conflict and extraordinary and temporary conditions that would
prevent the safe return of Sudanese nationals, the Attorney General designated Sudan for TPS on prevent the safe return of Sudanese nationals, the Attorney General designated Sudan for TPS on
November 4, 1997. Since then, Sudan has been redesignated or had its designation extended 15 November 4, 1997. Since then, Sudan has been redesignated or had its designation extended 15
times. times.
138 The White House (President Biden), Office of the Press Secretary, “Deferred Enforced Departure for Certain Palestinians,” presidential memorandum for the Secretary of State and the Secretary of Homeland Security, February 14, 2024. 139 Ibid. See also U.S. Department of Homeland Security, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services, “Implementation of Employment Authorization for Individuals Covered by Deferred Enforced Departure for Certain Palestinians,” 89 Federal Register 26167-26170, April 15, 2024. 140 For more information, see CRS In Focus IF10155, Somalia. 141 U.S. Department of Justice, Immigration and Nationalization Service, “Designation of Nationals of Somalia for Temporary Protected Status,” 56 Federal Register 46804-46805, September 16, 1991. 142 U.S. Department of Homeland Security, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services, “Extension and Redesignation of Somalia for Temporary Protected Status,” 88 Federal Register 15434-15443, March 13, 2023. 143 Ibid. 144 Data provided to CRS by U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services. This number does not include TPS-approved nationals of Somalia who subsequently obtained LPR status. 145 See CRS In Focus IF10182, Sudan. Congressional Research Service 19 Temporary Protected Status and Deferred Enforced Departure On July 9, 2011, South Sudan became a new nation.146 ~~On July 9, 2011, South Sudan became a new nation.136~~ With South Sudan’s independence from With South Sudan’s independence from
the Republic of Sudan, questions arose about whether nationals of the new nation would continue the Republic of Sudan, questions arose about whether nationals of the new nation would continue
to be eligible for TPS. In response, then-Secretary Napolitano designated South Sudan for TPS on to be eligible for TPS. In response, then-Secretary Napolitano designated South Sudan for TPS on
October 17, 2011.October 17, 2011.~~137~~147 Civil war broke out there in 2013, and TPS has been extended or redesignated nine times since TPS has been extended or redesignated nine times since ~~then~~2011 due to ongoing due to ongoing
armed conflict and extraordinary and temporary conditions in South Sudanarmed conflict and extraordinary and temporary conditions in South Sudan~~, including “ongoing~~
~~civil war marked by brutal violence against civilians, egregious human rights violations and~~
~~abuses, and a humanitarian disaster on a devastating scale across the country.”138~~. The most recent extension announcement cited “violence and human rights abuses affecting civilians, as well as environmental, health, and food security concerns.”148 The latest The latest
extension was for 18 months and expires on May 3, 2025.extension was for 18 months and expires on May 3, 2025.~~139~~149 This extension was accompanied by This extension was accompanied by
a redesignation, which allows nationals of South Sudan who have been continuously residing in a redesignation, which allows nationals of South Sudan who have been continuously residing in
the United States since September 3, 2023, to apply for TPS.the United States since September 3, 2023, to apply for TPS.
As of March 31, 2024, 155 nationals of South Sudan were covered by TPS.150 Citing improved conditions in Sudan, including a reduction in violence and an increase in food Citing improved conditions in Sudan, including a reduction in violence and an increase in food
harvests, then-Acting DHS Secretary Duke announced in September 2017 that Sudan’s TPS harvests, then-Acting DHS Secretary Duke announced in September 2017 that Sudan’s TPS
designation would expire on November 2, 2018.designation would expire on November 2, 2018.~~140~~151 The termination was put on hold due to a legal The termination was put on hold due to a legal
challenge.challenge.~~141~~152
On March 2, 2022, Secretary Mayorkas announced a new, 18-month designation for Sudan based On March 2, 2022, Secretary Mayorkas announced a new, 18-month designation for Sudan based
on extraordinary and temporary conditions that prevent Sudanese from returning safely. The on extraordinary and temporary conditions that prevent Sudanese from returning safely. The
announcement stated, “The recent military takeover of Sudan’s government has triggered political announcement stated, “The recent military takeover of Sudan’s government has triggered political
instability, violence, and human rights abuses against civilians. A humanitarian crisis linked to instability, violence, and human rights abuses against civilians. A humanitarian crisis linked to
unprecedented floods; food and clean water shortages; violence between the communities of unprecedented floods; food and clean water shortages; violence between the communities of
Darfur, Blue Nile, and South Kordofan; and internal displacement is ongoing.”Darfur, Blue Nile, and South Kordofan; and internal displacement is ongoing.”~~142~~153 This new This new
designation applied to nationals of Sudan who had been living in the United States since March 1, designation applied to nationals of Sudan who had been living in the United States since March 1,
2022, including those who benefited from the previous TPS designation for Sudan.2022, including those who benefited from the previous TPS designation for Sudan.~~143~~154 Civil war broke out in Sudan in April 2023. In August In August
2023, DHS extended Sudan’s designation for another 18 months, through April 19, 2025, based 2023, DHS extended Sudan’s designation for another 18 months, through April 19, 2025, based

~~135 See CRS In Focus IF10182, Sudan.~~
~~136~~on extraordinary and temporary conditions.155 DHS also redesignated Sudan for TPS, allowing additional Sudanese nationals who have been residing in the United States since August 16, 2023, to apply for TPS. DHS estimates that an additional 146 See CRS In Focus IF10218, See CRS In Focus IF10218, South Sudan. .
~~137~~147 U.S. Department of Homeland Security, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services, “Designation of Republic of U.S. Department of Homeland Security, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services, “Designation of Republic of
South Sudan for Temporary Protected Status,” 76South Sudan for Temporary Protected Status,” 76 Federal Register 63629-63635, October 13, 2011. 63629-63635, October 13, 2011.
~~138~~ 148 U.S. Department of Homeland Security, U.S. Department of Homeland Security, ~~U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services, “Extension of South Sudan for~~
~~Temporary Protected Status,” 82 Federal Register 44205-44211, September 21, 2017.~~
~~139~~“Secretary Mayorkas Extends and Redesignates Temporary Protected Status for South Sudan,” press release, September 5, 2023. 149 U.S. Department of Homeland Security, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services, “Extension and Redesignation U.S. Department of Homeland Security, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services, “Extension and Redesignation
of South Sudan for Temporary Protected Status,” 88 of South Sudan for Temporary Protected Status,” 88 Federal Register 60971-60979, September 6, 2023. 60971-60979, September 6, 2023.
~~140~~150 Data provided to CRS by U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services. This number does not include TPS-approved nationals of South Sudan who subsequently obtained LPR status. 151 U.S. Department of Homeland Security, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services, “Termination of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services, “Termination of the
Designation of Sudan for Temporary Protected Status,” 82 Designation of Sudan for Temporary Protected Status,” 82 Federal Register 47228-47234, October 11, 2017. 47228-47234, October 11, 2017.
~~141~~ 152 For more information on litigation related to TPS terminations, see CRS Legal Sidebar LSB10541, For more information on litigation related to TPS terminations, see CRS Legal Sidebar LSB10541, Termination of
Temporary Protected Status for Certain Countries: Recent Litigation Developments. .
~~142~~153 U.S. Department of Homeland Security, “Secretary Mayorkas Designates Sudan and Extends and Redesignates U.S. Department of Homeland Security, “Secretary Mayorkas Designates Sudan and Extends and Redesignates
South Sudan for Temporary Protected Status,” press release, March 2, 2022. South Sudan for Temporary Protected Status,” press release, March 2, 2022.
~~143~~154 U.S. Department of Homeland Security, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services, “Designation of Sudan for U.S. Department of Homeland Security, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services, “Designation of Sudan for
Temporary Protected Status,” 87 Temporary Protected Status,” 87 Federal Register 23202-23210, April 19, 2022. 23202-23210, April 19, 2022.
155 U.S. Department of Homeland Security, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services, “Extension and Redesignation of Sudan for Temporary Protected Status,” 88 Federal Register 56864-56872, August 21, 2023. Congressional Research Service Congressional Research Service

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~~on extraordinary and temporary conditions.144 DHS also redesignated Sudan for TPS, allowing~~
~~additional Sudanese nationals who have been residing in the United States since August 16, 2023,~~
~~to apply for TPS. DHS estimates that an additional 2,750 Sudanese may be eligible for TPS under~~
~~this redesignation.145~~2,750 Sudanese may be eligible for TPS under this redesignation.156 As of March 31, 2024, 1,190 nationals of Sudan were covered by TPS.157
Syria
The political uprising of 2011 in Syria grew into a protracted civil war; as of late 2022, 5.6 The political uprising of 2011 in Syria grew into a protracted civil war; as of late 2022, 5.6
million Syrians were registered as refugees in neighboring countries and 6.9 million remained million Syrians were registered as refugees in neighboring countries and 6.9 million remained
internally displaced.internally displaced.~~146~~158 On March 29, 2012, then-Secretary of Homeland Security Janet On March 29, 2012, then-Secretary of Homeland Security Janet
Napolitano designated Syria for TPS, citing temporary extraordinary conditions that would make Napolitano designated Syria for TPS, citing temporary extraordinary conditions that would make
it unsafe for Syrian nationals already in the United States to return to the country.it unsafe for Syrian nationals already in the United States to return to the country.~~147~~159 In that initial In that initial
granting of TPS, Secretary Napolitano made clear that DHS would conduct full background granting of TPS, Secretary Napolitano made clear that DHS would conduct full background
checks on Syrians registering for TPS.checks on Syrians registering for TPS.~~148~~160
TPS for Syrian nationals has since been extended in 18-month increments on the bases of TPS for Syrian nationals has since been extended in 18-month increments on the bases of
ongoing armed conflict and extraordinary and temporary conditions. The extension on August 1, ongoing armed conflict and extraordinary and temporary conditions. The extension on August 1,
2016, was accompanied by a redesignation, which updated the required arrival date into the 2016, was accompanied by a redesignation, which updated the required arrival date into the
United States for Syrians from January 5, 2015, to August 1, 2016.United States for Syrians from January 5, 2015, to August 1, 2016.~~149~~161 The Trump Administration The Trump Administration
extended Syria’s designation twice without redesignating; thus, Syrians who entered the United extended Syria’s designation twice without redesignating; thus, Syrians who entered the United
States after August 1, 2016, remained ineligible.States after August 1, 2016, remained ineligible.~~150~~162 The Biden Administration has The Biden Administration has ~~twice~~ extended extended
(for 18 months each) and redesignated Syria for TPS(for 18 months each) and redesignated Syria for TPS~~.151~~ three times.163 The latest redesignation allows Syrian The latest redesignation allows Syrian
nationals who have been residing in the United States since nationals who have been residing in the United States since ~~July 28, 2022~~January 25, 2024, to apply for TPS. DHS , to apply for TPS. DHS
estimated that approximately estimated that approximately ~~960~~2,500 individuals may be newly eligible for TPS under the latest individuals may be newly eligible for TPS under the latest
~~redesignation.152~~

~~144 U.S. Department of Homeland Security, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services, “Extension and Redesignation~~
~~of Sudan for Temporary Protected Status,” 88 Federal Register 56864-56872, August 21, 2023.~~
~~145 Ibid.~~
~~146~~redesignation.164 As of March 31, 2024, 3,865 nationals of Syria were covered by TPS.165 156 Ibid. 157 Data provided to CRS by U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services. This number does not include TPS-approved nationals of Sudan who subsequently obtained LPR status. 158 See CRS Report R43119, See CRS Report R43119, Syria: Overview of the Humanitarian Response; and CRS Report RL33487, ; and CRS Report RL33487, Armed
Conflict in Syria: Overview and U.S. Response. .
~~147~~159 U.S. Department of Homeland Security, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services, “Designation of Syrian Arab U.S. Department of Homeland Security, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services, “Designation of Syrian Arab
Republic for Temporary Protected Status,” 61Republic for Temporary Protected Status,” 61 Federal Register 19026-19030, March 29, 2012. 19026-19030, March 29, 2012.
~~148~~ 160 Secretary of Homeland Security Janet Napolitano, “Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for Syrian Nationals,” press Secretary of Homeland Security Janet Napolitano, “Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for Syrian Nationals,” press
release, March 23, 2012, https://www.dhs.gov/ynews/releases/20120323-napolitano-statement-syria-tps.shtm. release, March 23, 2012, https://www.dhs.gov/ynews/releases/20120323-napolitano-statement-syria-tps.shtm.
~~149~~161 Previously, Syrians who had arrived in the United States after January 5, 2015, were not eligible for TPS. The Previously, Syrians who had arrived in the United States after January 5, 2015, were not eligible for TPS. The
redesignation allows Syrians that arrived between January 5, 2015, and August 1, 2016, to be eligible for TPS. U.S. redesignation allows Syrians that arrived between January 5, 2015, and August 1, 2016, to be eligible for TPS. U.S.
Department of Homeland Security, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services, “Extension and Redesignation of Syria Department of Homeland Security, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services, “Extension and Redesignation of Syria
for Temporary Protected Status,” 81for Temporary Protected Status,” 81 Federal Register 50533-50541, August 1, 2016. 50533-50541, August 1, 2016.
~~150~~162 U.S. Department of Homeland Security, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services, “Extension of the Designation U.S. Department of Homeland Security, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services, “Extension of the Designation
of Syria for Temporary Protected Status,” 83Syria for Temporary Protected Status,” 83 Federal Register 9329-9336, March 5, 2018; 9329-9336, March 5, 2018; ~~and U~~andU.S. Department of .S. Department of
Homeland Security, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services, “Extension of the Designation Homeland Security, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services, “Extension of the Designation of Syria for Temporary Syria for Temporary
Protected Status,” 84Protected Status,” 84 Federal Register 49751-49757, September 23, 2019. 49751-49757, September 23, 2019.
~~151~~163 U.S. Department of Homeland Security, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services, “Extension and Redesignation U.S. Department of Homeland Security, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services, “Extension and Redesignation
of Syria for Temporary Protected Status,” 86of Syria for Temporary Protected Status,” 86 Federal Register 14946-14952, March 19, 2021; 14946-14952, March 19, 2021; ~~and~~ U.S. Department of U.S. Department of
Homeland Security, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services, “Extension and Redesignation of Syria for Temporary Homeland Security, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services, “Extension and Redesignation of Syria for Temporary
Protected Status,” 87Protected Status,” 87 Federal Register 46982-46991, August 1, 2022 46982-46991, August 1, 2022.
~~152~~; and U.S. Department of Homeland Security, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services, “Extension and Redesignation of Syria for Temporary Protected Status,” 89 Federal Register 5562-5571, January 29, 2024. 164 U.S. Department of Homeland Security, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services, “Extension and Redesignation U.S. Department of Homeland Security, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services, “Extension and Redesignation
of Syria for Temporary Protected Status,” of Syria for Temporary Protected Status,” 8789 Federal Register ~~46982-46991, August 1, 2022~~5562-5571, January 29, 2024. 165 Data provided to CRS by U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services. This number does not include TPS-approved nationals of Syria who subsequently obtained LPR status. .
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Ukraine
On February 24, 2022, Russia launched a full-scale invasion of Ukraine.On February 24, 2022, Russia launched a full-scale invasion of Ukraine.~~153~~166 The United States and The United States and
its allies have condemned the invasion and provided military, economic, and humanitarian its allies have condemned the invasion and provided military, economic, and humanitarian
assistance to Ukraine; imposed trade and financial sanctions on Russia; and enhanced their own assistance to Ukraine; imposed trade and financial sanctions on Russia; and enhanced their own
military deterrence posture.military deterrence posture.~~154~~167 The invasion triggered massive refugee flows to neighboring The invasion triggered massive refugee flows to neighboring
countries and led to millions of people being internally displaced.countries and led to millions of people being internally displaced.~~155~~168
On March 3, 2022, DHS Secretary Mayorkas announced the designation of Ukraine for TPS for On March 3, 2022, DHS Secretary Mayorkas announced the designation of Ukraine for TPS for
18 months.18 months.~~156~~169 DHS cited the armed conflict and extraordinary conditions that prevent Ukrainians DHS cited the armed conflict and extraordinary conditions that prevent Ukrainians
from returning safely to Ukraine. The announcement stated, “This invasion has caused a from returning safely to Ukraine. The announcement stated, “This invasion has caused a
humanitarian crisis with significant numbers of individuals fleeing and damage to civilian humanitarian crisis with significant numbers of individuals fleeing and damage to civilian
infrastructure that has left many without electricity or water or access to food, basic supplies, infrastructure that has left many without electricity or water or access to food, basic supplies,
shelter, and emergency medical services.”shelter, and emergency medical services.”~~157~~170 DHS’s original announcement of TPS for Ukraine DHS’s original announcement of TPS for Ukraine
stated that stated that certain Ukrainian nationals who have continuously resided in the United States since Ukrainian nationals who have continuously resided in the United States since March 1, 2022~~March 1,~~
~~2022, and meet the other eligibility requirements~~ may apply for TPS. may apply for TPS.~~158~~171 However, in the However, in the Federal
Register Notice published on April 19, 2022, DHS established an arrival cutoff date of April Notice published on April 19, 2022, DHS established an arrival cutoff date of April
~~11.159~~11.172 Thus, Ukrainians who traveled to the United States between March 1 and April 11, 2022, Thus, Ukrainians who traveled to the United States between March 1 and April 11, 2022,
were also eligible to apply for TPS. DHS estimated that 59,600 Ukrainians would be eligible to were also eligible to apply for TPS. DHS estimated that 59,600 Ukrainians would be eligible to
apply. apply.
In August 2023, DHS extended Ukraine’s designation for another 18 months, through April 19, In August 2023, DHS extended Ukraine’s designation for another 18 months, through April 19,
2025, citing ongoing armed conflict and extraordinary and temporary conditions.2025, citing ongoing armed conflict and extraordinary and temporary conditions.~~160~~173 DHS also DHS also
redesignated Ukraine for TPS, allowing additional Ukrainian nationals who have been residing in redesignated Ukraine for TPS, allowing additional Ukrainian nationals who have been residing in
the United States since August 16, 2023, to apply for TPS. DHS estimates that an additional the United States since August 16, 2023, to apply for TPS. DHS estimates that an additional
166,700 Ukrainian nationals may be eligible for TPS under this redesignation.166,700 Ukrainian nationals may be eligible for TPS under this redesignation.~~161~~174 As of March 31, 2024, 50,205 nationals of Ukraine were covered by TPS.175
Venezuela
Venezuela is in a deep crisis under the authoritarian rule of Nicolás Maduro. Narrowly elected in Venezuela is in a deep crisis under the authoritarian rule of Nicolás Maduro. Narrowly elected in
2013 after the death of populist President Hugo Chávez, Maduro began a second term in January 2013 after the death of populist President Hugo Chávez, Maduro began a second term in January
2019 that is widely considered illegitimate.2019 that is widely considered illegitimate.~~162~~176 By most accounts, Maduro’s government has By most accounts, Maduro’s government has
mismanaged the economy and engaged in massive corruption, exacerbating the effects of a mismanaged the economy and engaged in massive corruption, exacerbating the effects of a
~~decline in global oil prices and production on the country’s economy. Shortages in food and~~

~~153~~ 166 For more information, see CRS Insight IN11872, For more information, see CRS Insight IN11872, Russia’s Invasion of Ukraine: Military and Intelligence Issues and
Aspects. .
~~154~~167 For more information, see CRS Insight IN11869, For more information, see CRS Insight IN11869, Russia’s War Against Ukraine: Overview of U.S. ~~Sanctions and~~
~~Other Responses~~Assistance and Sanctions; CRS In Focus IF12062, ; CRS In Focus IF12062, Russia’s War on Ukraine: Financial and Trade Sanctions; and CRS Insight ; and CRS Insight
IN11866, IN11866, Russia’s Invasion of Ukraine: NATO Response. .
~~155~~168 See CRS Insight IN11882, See CRS Insight IN11882, Humanitarian and Refugee Crisis in Ukraine. .
~~156~~169 U.S. Department of Homeland Security, “Secretary Mayorkas Designates Ukraine for Temporary Protected Status U.S. Department of Homeland Security, “Secretary Mayorkas Designates Ukraine for Temporary Protected Status
for 18 months,” press release, March 3, 2022. for 18 months,” press release, March 3, 2022.
~~157~~170 Ibid. Ibid.
~~158~~171 Ibid. Ibid.
~~159~~172 U.S. Department of Homeland Security, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services, “Designation of Ukraine for U.S. Department of Homeland Security, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services, “Designation of Ukraine for
Temporary Protected Status,” 8 Temporary Protected Status,” 8 Federal Register 23211-23218, April 19, 2022. 23211-23218, April 19, 2022.
~~160~~173 U.S. Department of Homeland Security, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services, “Extension and Redesignation U.S. Department of Homeland Security, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services, “Extension and Redesignation
of Ukraine for Temporary Protected Status,” 88 of Ukraine for Temporary Protected Status,” 88 Federal Register 56872-56880, August 21, 2023. 56872-56880, August 21, 2023.
~~161~~174 Ibid. Ibid.
~~162~~175 Data provided to CRS by U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services. This number does not include TPS-approved nationals of Ukraine who subsequently obtained LPR status. 176 For more information, see CRS In Focus IF10230, For more information, see CRS In Focus IF10230, Venezuela: Political Crisis and U.S. Policy. .
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decline in global oil prices and production on the country’s economy. Shortages in food and medicine, declines in purchasing power, and a collapse of social services have created a medicine, declines in purchasing power, and a collapse of social services have created a
humanitarian crisis.humanitarian crisis.~~163~~177
During 2019, some Members of Congress and nonprofit organizations requested that the Trump During 2019, some Members of Congress and nonprofit organizations requested that the Trump
Administration designate Venezuela for TPS,Administration designate Venezuela for TPS,~~164~~178 and the House passed a bill (H.R. 549) that would and the House passed a bill (H.R. 549) that would
have designated Venezuela for TPS for 18 months.have designated Venezuela for TPS for 18 months.~~165~~179 A Senate effort in July 2020 to pass H.R. A Senate effort in July 2020 to pass H.R.
549 by unanimous consent failed. In response to a letter requesting TPS for Venezuela, the Acting 549 by unanimous consent failed. In response to a letter requesting TPS for Venezuela, the Acting
Director of USCIS stated that USCIS would not recommend any new countries for TPS “until Director of USCIS stated that USCIS would not recommend any new countries for TPS “until
such time as federal courts resume following federal law,” referring to court decisions to enjoin such time as federal courts resume following federal law,” referring to court decisions to enjoin
the Trump Administration’s terminations of TPS designations for several countries.the Trump Administration’s terminations of TPS designations for several countries.~~166~~180 The Trump The Trump
Administration never designated Venezuela for TPS. However, on his last full day in office, Administration never designated Venezuela for TPS. However, on his last full day in office,
President Trump granted DED for 18 months for Venezuelans present in the United States as of President Trump granted DED for 18 months for Venezuelans present in the United States as of
January 20, 2021, asserting that the Maduro regime is responsible for “the worst humanitarian January 20, 2021, asserting that the Maduro regime is responsible for “the worst humanitarian
crisis in the Western Hemisphere in recent memory.”crisis in the Western Hemisphere in recent memory.”~~167~~181 Venezuela’s DED grant expired on July Venezuela’s DED grant expired on July
20, 2022. 20, 2022.
The Biden Administration determined that Venezuela met the statutory conditions for a TPS The Biden Administration determined that Venezuela met the statutory conditions for a TPS
designation on the basis of extraordinary and temporary conditions. Unlike DED, designating designation on the basis of extraordinary and temporary conditions. Unlike DED, designating
Venezuela for TPS allows those who qualify to obtain an immigration status and documentation Venezuela for TPS allows those who qualify to obtain an immigration status and documentation
thereof; it also requires that the Administration reconsider country conditions on a periodic basis thereof; it also requires that the Administration reconsider country conditions on a periodic basis
and extend or terminate the status accordingly. On March 8, 2021, DHS Secretary Mayorkas and extend or terminate the status accordingly. On March 8, 2021, DHS Secretary Mayorkas
announced an 18-month TPS designation for Venezuela, citing the following factors: announced an 18-month TPS designation for Venezuela, citing the following factors:
economic contraction; inflation and hyperinflation; deepening poverty; high levels of economic contraction; inflation and hyperinflation; deepening poverty; high levels of
unemployment; reduced access to and shortages of food and medicine; a severely unemployment; reduced access to and shortages of food and medicine; a severely
weakened medical system; the reappearance or increased incidence of certain weakened medical system; the reappearance or increased incidence of certain
communicable diseases; a collapse in basic services; water, electricity, and fuel shortages; communicable diseases; a collapse in basic services; water, electricity, and fuel shortages;
political polarization; institutional and political tensions; human rights abuses and political polarization; institutional and political tensions; human rights abuses and
repression; crime and violence; corruption; increased human mobility and displacement repression; crime and violence; corruption; increased human mobility and displacement
(including internal migration, emigration, and return); and the impact of the COVID-19 (including internal migration, emigration, and return); and the impact of the COVID-19
pandemic, among other factors.pandemic, among other factors.~~168~~182
USCIS estimated that approximately 323,000 individuals were eligible to file applications for USCIS estimated that approximately 323,000 individuals were eligible to file applications for
TPS under this designation of Venezuela.TPS under this designation of Venezuela.~~169~~183

~~163~~177 Ibid. Ibid.
~~164~~178 See, for example, letter from 24 U.S. Senators to President Donald J. Trump, March 7, 2019, See, for example, letter from 24 U.S. Senators to President Donald J. Trump, March 7, 2019,
https://www.durbin.senate.gov/imo/media/doc/March7%20Venezuela%20TPS%20Letter%20FINAL%20SIGNED.pdf; https://www.durbin.senate.gov/imo/media/doc/March7%20Venezuela%20TPS%20Letter%20FINAL%20SIGNED.pdf;
and letter from 23 U.S. Representatives to Kevin McAleenan, acting Secretary of DHS, May 10, 2019, and letter from 23 U.S. Representatives to Kevin McAleenan, acting Secretary of DHS, May 10, 2019,
https://www.uscis.gov/sites/default/files/document/foia/TPS_-_Venezuela_-_Representative_Mucarsel-Powell.pdf. https://www.uscis.gov/sites/default/files/document/foia/TPS_-_Venezuela_-_Representative_Mucarsel-Powell.pdf.
~~165~~179 H.R. 549, 116th Congress. H.R. 549, 116th Congress.
~~166~~180 Letter from Ken Cucinelli II, acting director, USCIS, to Leith Anderson, president, National Association of Letter from Ken Cucinelli II, acting director, USCIS, to Leith Anderson, president, National Association of
Evangelicals, October 24, 2019, https://www.uscis.gov/sites/default/files/document/foia/TPS_-_Venezuela_-Evangelicals, October 24, 2019, https://www.uscis.gov/sites/default/files/document/foia/TPS_-_Venezuela_-
_Anderson.pdf. For information on the TPS-related injunctions, see CRS Legal Sidebar LSB10215, _Anderson.pdf. For information on the TPS-related injunctions, see CRS Legal Sidebar LSB10215, Federal District
Court Enjoins the Department of Homeland Security from Terminating Temporary Protected Status. .
~~167~~181 The White House (President Trump), Office of the Press Secretary, “Deferred Enforced Departure for Certain The White House (President Trump), Office of the Press Secretary, “Deferred Enforced Departure for Certain
Venezuelans,” presidential memorandum for the Secretary of State and the Secretary of Homeland Security, January Venezuelans,” presidential memorandum for the Secretary of State and the Secretary of Homeland Security, January
19, 2021. 19, 2021.
~~168~~182 U.S. Department of Homeland Security, “Designation of Venezuela for Temporary Protected Status and U.S. Department of Homeland Security, “Designation of Venezuela for Temporary Protected Status and
Implementation of Employment Authorization for Venezuelans Covered by Deferred Enforced Departure,” 86Implementation of Employment Authorization for Venezuelans Covered by Deferred Enforced Departure,” 86 Federal
Register 13574-13581, March 9, 2021. 13574-13581, March 9, 2021.
~~169~~183 Ibid. Ibid.
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On July 11, 2022, DHS announced an 18-month extension of Venezuela’s TPS. On July 11, 2022, DHS announced an 18-month extension of Venezuela’s TPS.~~170~~184 Despite calls to Despite calls to
allow Venezuelans who arrived after March 8, 2021, to apply for TPS,allow Venezuelans who arrived after March 8, 2021, to apply for TPS,~~171~~185 the extension was not the extension was not
accompanied by a redesignation to move the arrival date forward.accompanied by a redesignation to move the arrival date forward.~~172~~186 However, in September However, in September
2023, six months before Venezuela’s TPS designation was set to expire, Secretary Mayorkas 2023, six months before Venezuela’s TPS designation was set to expire, Secretary Mayorkas
announced that an extension and redesignation were warranted “based on Venezuela’s increased announced that an extension and redesignation were warranted “based on Venezuela’s increased
instability and lack of safety due to the enduring humanitarian, security, political, and instability and lack of safety due to the enduring humanitarian, security, political, and
environmental conditions.”environmental conditions.”~~173~~187 In an effort to deter additional migration from Venezuela based on In an effort to deter additional migration from Venezuela based on
hopes of qualifying for TPS, Secretary Mayorkas noted in a press release that, “it is critical that hopes of qualifying for TPS, Secretary Mayorkas noted in a press release that, “it is critical that
Venezuelans understand that those who have arrived here after July 31, 2023 are not eligible for Venezuelans understand that those who have arrived here after July 31, 2023 are not eligible for
such protection, and instead will be removed when they are found to not have a legal basis to such protection, and instead will be removed when they are found to not have a legal basis to
stay.”stay.”~~174~~188 DHS estimated that the redesignation would make approximately 472,000 nationals of DHS estimated that the redesignation would make approximately 472,000 nationals of
Venezuela in the United States newly eligible for TPS.Venezuela in the United States newly eligible for TPS.~~175~~
189 As of March 31, 2024, 344,335 nationals of Venezuela were covered by TPS.190 Yemen
On September 3, 2015, then-DHS Secretary Johnson designated Yemen for TPS for 18 months On September 3, 2015, then-DHS Secretary Johnson designated Yemen for TPS for 18 months
due to ongoing armed conflict in the country.due to ongoing armed conflict in the country.~~176~~191 A 2015 DHS press release stated that “requiring A 2015 DHS press release stated that “requiring
Yemeni nationals in the United States to return to Yemen would pose a serious threat to their Yemeni nationals in the United States to return to Yemen would pose a serious threat to their
personal safety.”personal safety.”~~177~~192 Since 2015, the war in Yemen has internally displaced more than 4.3 million Since 2015, the war in Yemen has internally displaced more than 4.3 million
people.people.~~178~~193 According to the United Nations, Yemen is experiencing one of the world’s worst According to the United Nations, Yemen is experiencing one of the world’s worst
humanitarian crises, with nearly three quarters of the population in need of humanitarian humanitarian crises, with nearly three quarters of the population in need of humanitarian
~~assistance.179 Relief efforts in the region have been complicated by ongoing violence and~~
~~considerable damage to the country’s infrastructure.180~~
~~On January 4, 2017, DHS extended and redesignated Yemen’s current TPS designation through~~
~~September 3, 2018. The redesignation updated the required arrival date into the United States for~~

~~170~~ 184 U.S. Department of Homeland Security, “DHS Announces Extension of Temporary Protected Status for U.S. Department of Homeland Security, “DHS Announces Extension of Temporary Protected Status for
Venezuela,” press release, July 11, 2022. Venezuela,” press release, July 11, 2022.
~~171~~185 See letter from 22 Senators to Secretary of State Antony J. Blinken and Secretary of Homeland Security Alejandro See letter from 22 Senators to Secretary of State Antony J. Blinken and Secretary of Homeland Security Alejandro
Mayorkas, July 8, 2022; Letter from Senators Rubio and Menendez to Secretary of Homeland Security Alejandro Mayorkas, July 8, 2022; Letter from Senators Rubio and Menendez to Secretary of Homeland Security Alejandro
Mayorkas, March 31, 2022; Letter from 30 Representatives to President Joseph R. Biden and Secretary of Homeland Mayorkas, March 31, 2022; Letter from 30 Representatives to President Joseph R. Biden and Secretary of Homeland
Security Alejandro Mayorkas, July 8, 2022; Letter from 14 Representatives to President Joseph R. Biden and Secretary Security Alejandro Mayorkas, July 8, 2022; Letter from 14 Representatives to President Joseph R. Biden and Secretary
of Homeland Security Alejandro Mayorkas, March 21, 2022; https://www.uscis.gov/sites/default/files/document/foia/of Homeland Security Alejandro Mayorkas, March 21, 2022; https://www.uscis.gov/sites/default/files/document/foia/
Temporary_Protective_Status_for_Venezuela-Representative_Soto.pdf; Letter from Mayor Daniella Levine Cava to Temporary_Protective_Status_for_Venezuela-Representative_Soto.pdf; Letter from Mayor Daniella Levine Cava to
Secretary of Homeland Security Alejandro Mayorkas, July 9, 2022; and Letter from Catholic leaders to Secretary of Secretary of Homeland Security Alejandro Mayorkas, July 9, 2022; and Letter from Catholic leaders to Secretary of
State Antony J. Blinken and Secretary of Homeland Security Alejandro Mayorkas, July 19, 2022. State Antony J. Blinken and Secretary of Homeland Security Alejandro Mayorkas, July 19, 2022.
~~172~~186 U.S. Department of Homeland Security, “Extension of the Designation of Venezuela for Temporary Protected U.S. Department of Homeland Security, “Extension of the Designation of Venezuela for Temporary Protected
Status,” 87Status,” 87 Federal Register 55024-55032, September 10, 2022. 55024-55032, September 10, 2022.
~~173~~ 187 U.S. Department of Homeland Security, “Secretary Mayorkas Announces Extension and Redesignation of U.S. Department of Homeland Security, “Secretary Mayorkas Announces Extension and Redesignation of
Venezuela for Temporary Protected Status,” press release, September 20, 2023. Venezuela for Temporary Protected Status,” press release, September 20, 2023.
~~174~~188 Ibid. Ibid.
~~175 Ibid.~~
~~176~~189 U.S. Department of Homeland Security, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services, “Extension and Redesignation of Venezuela for Temporary Protected Status,” 88 Federal Register 68130-68139, October 3, 2023. 190 Data provided to CRS by U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services. This number does not include TPS-approved nationals of Venezuela who subsequently obtained LPR status. 191 U.S. Department of Homeland Security, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services, “Designation of the Republic U.S. Department of Homeland Security, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services, “Designation of the Republic
of Yemen for Temporary Protected Status,” 80of Yemen for Temporary Protected Status,” 80 Federal Register 53319-53323, September 3, 2015. 53319-53323, September 3, 2015.
~~177~~ 192 U.S. Department of Homeland Security, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services, “DHS Announces Temporary U.S. Department of Homeland Security, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services, “DHS Announces Temporary
Protected Status Designation for Yemen,” press release, September 3, 2015, https://www.uscis.gov/news/dhs-Protected Status Designation for Yemen,” press release, September 3, 2015, https://www.uscis.gov/news/dhs-
announces-temporary-protected-status-designation-yemen. announces-temporary-protected-status-designation-yemen.
~~178~~193 United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs, “Yemen Humanitarian Update – Issue 9,” United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs, “Yemen Humanitarian Update – Issue 9,”
September 2022. September 2022.
~~179 United Nations Population Fund, “Yemen: One of the world’s largest humanitarian crises,” October 11, 2022.~~
~~180 See CRS Report R43960, Yemen: Civil War and Regional Intervention.~~
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Congressional Research Service 24 link to page 29 link to page 31 Temporary Protected Status and Deferred Enforced Departure assistance.194 Relief efforts in the region have been complicated by ongoing violence and considerable damage to the country’s infrastructure.195 On January 4, 2017, DHS extended and redesignated Yemen’s current TPS designation through September 3, 2018. The redesignation updated the required arrival date into the United States for individuals from Yemen from September 3, 2015, to January 4, 2017.individuals from Yemen from September 3, 2015, to January 4, 2017.~~181~~196 The The Federal Register
notice explained that the “continued deterioration of the conditions for civilians in Yemen and the notice explained that the “continued deterioration of the conditions for civilians in Yemen and the
resulting need to offer protection to individuals who have arrived in the United States after the resulting need to offer protection to individuals who have arrived in the United States after the
eligibility cutoff dates” warranted the redesignation of TPS.eligibility cutoff dates” warranted the redesignation of TPS.~~182~~197 The Trump Administration twice The Trump Administration twice
extended Yemen’s TPS designation for durations of 18 months each, but kept the arrival cutoff extended Yemen’s TPS designation for durations of 18 months each, but kept the arrival cutoff
date the same.date the same.~~183~~198 In July 2021 and again in January 2023, the Biden Administration extended In July 2021 and again in January 2023, the Biden Administration extended
Yemen’s designation for 18 months and, at the same time, redesignated the country, thereby Yemen’s designation for 18 months and, at the same time, redesignated the country, thereby
allowing more recent arrivals to the United States to apply.allowing more recent arrivals to the United States to apply.~~184~~
199 As of March 31, 2024, 1,840 nationals of Yemen were covered by TPS.200 State of Residence of TPS Recipients
Individuals with TPS reside in all 50 states, the District of Columbia, and U.S. territories. The Individuals with TPS reside in all 50 states, the District of Columbia, and U.S. territories. The
largest populations live in traditional immigrant gateway states: Florida, Texas, largest populations live in traditional immigrant gateway states: Florida, Texas, ~~California, and~~
~~New York~~New York, and California. In addition, . In addition, ~~eight~~12 other states had at least 10,000 TPS recipients as of other states had at least 10,000 TPS recipients as of ~~September 2023:~~
~~Maryland, New Jersey, Virginia~~March 2024: New Jersey, Georgia, Maryland, Massachusetts, , Massachusetts, ~~Georgia~~Virginia, North Carolina, , North Carolina, ~~Indiana, and Illinois.~~
~~See~~Illinois, Indiana, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, and Utah. See Figure 1 andand Table 3.

~~181~~More than one-third (34%) of those covered by TPS reside in Florida; most of these individuals are Venezuelan (57%) or Haitian (35%). 194 United Nations Population Fund, “Yemen: One of the world’s largest humanitarian crises,” October 11, 2022. 195 See CRS Report R43960, Yemen: Civil War and Regional Intervention. 196 U.S. Department of Homeland Security, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services, “Extension and Redesignation U.S. Department of Homeland Security, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services, “Extension and Redesignation
of the Republic of Yemen for Temporary Protected Status,” 82 of the Republic of Yemen for Temporary Protected Status,” 82 Federal Register 859-866, January 4, 2017. 859-866, January 4, 2017.
~~182~~197 Ibid. Ibid.
~~183~~198 U.S. Department of Homeland Security, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services, “Extension of the Designation U.S. Department of Homeland Security, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services, “Extension of the Designation
of Yemen for Temporary Protected Status,” 83 of Yemen for Temporary Protected Status,” 83 Federal Register 40307-40313, August 14, 2018; U.S. Department of 40307-40313, August 14, 2018; U.S. Department of
Homeland Security, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services, “Extension of the Designation of Yemen for Homeland Security, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services, “Extension of the Designation of Yemen for
Temporary Protected Status,” 85 Temporary Protected Status,” 85 Federal Register 12313-12319, March 2, 2020. 12313-12319, March 2, 2020.
~~184~~199 U.S. Department of Homeland Security, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services, “Extension and Redesignation U.S. Department of Homeland Security, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services, “Extension and Redesignation
of Yemen for Temporary Protected Status,” 86of Yemen for Temporary Protected Status,” 86 Federal Register 36295-36302, July 9, 2021; and U.S. Department of 36295-36302, July 9, 2021; and U.S. Department of
Homeland Security, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services, “Extension and Redesignation of Yemen for Homeland Security, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services, “Extension and Redesignation of Yemen for
Temporary Protected Status,” 88Temporary Protected Status,” 88 Federal Register 94-103, January 3, 2023. 94-103, January 3, 2023.
200 Data provided to CRS by U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services. This number does not include TPS-approved nationals of Yemen who subsequently obtained LPR status. Congressional Research Service Congressional Research Service

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Figure 1. Individuals with Temporary Protected Status by State of Residence

Source: CRS presentation of data provided by USCIS. CRS presentation of data provided by USCIS.
Notes: These data reflect the number of individuals (rounded to the nearest five) with an approved TPS These data reflect the number of individuals (rounded to the nearest five) with an approved TPS
application as of application as of ~~September 30, 2023~~March 31, 2024, who had not obtained LPR status or U.S. citizenship. The data may include , who had not obtained LPR status or U.S. citizenship. The data may include
individuals who have moved to another state, left the country, or died since their last TPS approval, and do not individuals who have moved to another state, left the country, or died since their last TPS approval, and do not
necessarily include all nationals from the specified countries who are in the United States and are eligible for the necessarily include all nationals from the specified countries who are in the United States and are eligible for the
status. status.
Adjustment of Status
A grant of TPS does not provide a recipient with a designated pathway to LPR status; however, a A grant of TPS does not provide a recipient with a designated pathway to LPR status; however, a
TPS recipient is not barred from acquiring nonimmigrant or immigrant status if he or she meets TPS recipient is not barred from acquiring nonimmigrant or immigrant status if he or she meets
the requirements.the requirements.~~185~~201 There are statutory limitations on Congress providing adjustment of status to There are statutory limitations on Congress providing adjustment of status to
TPS recipients. Section 244(h) of the INA (8 U.S.C. §1254a(h)) states that the consideration of TPS recipients. Section 244(h) of the INA (8 U.S.C. §1254a(h)) states that the consideration of
any bill, resolution, or amendment that provides for the adjustment to lawful temporary or lawful any bill, resolution, or amendment that provides for the adjustment to lawful temporary or lawful
permanent resident status for any TPS recipient requires a supermajority in the Senate (i.e., three-permanent resident status for any TPS recipient requires a supermajority in the Senate (i.e., three-
fifths of all Senators) voting affirmatively. fifths of all Senators) voting affirmatively.
Over the years, Congress has provided for the adjustment to LPR status for groups of nationals Over the years, Congress has provided for the adjustment to LPR status for groups of nationals
who had been given TPS or DED. In 1992, Congress enacted legislation allowing Chinese who had been given TPS or DED. In 1992, Congress enacted legislation allowing Chinese

~~185~~201 To adjust to LPR status, an individual generally must have been “inspected and admitted or paroled” into the United To adjust to LPR status, an individual generally must have been “inspected and admitted or paroled” into the United
States (INA §245(a), 8 U.S.C. §1255(a)). In recent years, some federal courts have addressed whether aliens who States (INA §245(a), 8 U.S.C. §1255(a)). In recent years, some federal courts have addressed whether aliens who
unlawfully entered the United States but later received TPS are considered to be “inspected and admitted” into the unlawfully entered the United States but later received TPS are considered to be “inspected and admitted” into the
United States. Circuit courts were split on this issue. On June 7, 2021, the Supreme Court ruled unanimously that TPS United States. Circuit courts were split on this issue. On June 7, 2021, the Supreme Court ruled unanimously that TPS
does not constitute an admission. For more information, see CRS Legal Sidebar LSB10607, does not constitute an admission. For more information, see CRS Legal Sidebar LSB10607, Supreme Court: Unlawful
Entrants with Temporary Protected Status Cannot Adjust to Lawful Permanent Resident Status. .
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nationals who had DED following the Tiananmen Square massacre to adjust to LPR status (P.L. nationals who had DED following the Tiananmen Square massacre to adjust to LPR status (P.L.
102-404). The Nicaraguan Adjustment and Central American Relief Act (NACARA) (Title II of 102-404). The Nicaraguan Adjustment and Central American Relief Act (NACARA) (Title II of
P.L. 105-100), which became law in 1997, provided eligibility for LPR status to certain P.L. 105-100), which became law in 1997, provided eligibility for LPR status to certain
Nicaraguans, Cubans, Guatemalans, Salvadorans (some of whom were covered by TPS), and Nicaraguans, Cubans, Guatemalans, Salvadorans (some of whom were covered by TPS), and
nationals of the former Soviet bloc who had applied for asylum and had been living in the United nationals of the former Soviet bloc who had applied for asylum and had been living in the United
States for a certain period of time. The 116th Congress incorporated Liberian Refugee States for a certain period of time. The 116th Congress incorporated Liberian Refugee
Immigration Fairness provisions into the FY2020 National Defense Authorization Act; it allows Immigration Fairness provisions into the FY2020 National Defense Authorization Act; it allows
Liberians who have been continuously present in the United States since November 2014 and Liberians who have been continuously present in the United States since November 2014 and
their family members to apply for LPR status. President Trump signed it into law on December their family members to apply for LPR status. President Trump signed it into law on December
20, 2019 (P.L. 116-92, §7611). 20, 2019 (P.L. 116-92, §7611).
Other legislation to allow persons with TPS to adjust to LPR status received action in past Other legislation to allow persons with TPS to adjust to LPR status received action in past
CongressesCongresses~~; this legislation was not~~ but has not been enacted. For instance, the Senate-passed comprehensive enacted. For instance, the Senate-passed comprehensive
immigration reform bill in the 113th Congress (S. 744) did not include specific provisions for immigration reform bill in the 113th Congress (S. 744) did not include specific provisions for
foreign nationals with TPS to adjust status, but many would have qualified for the registered foreign nationals with TPS to adjust status, but many would have qualified for the registered
provisional immigrant status that S. 744 would have establishedprovisional immigrant status that S. 744 would have established~~.186~~ and been eligible to apply for LPR status after 10 years.202
Two bills that would have provided LPR status to certain TPS and DED recipients passed the Two bills that would have provided LPR status to certain TPS and DED recipients passed the
House in the 117th Congress. Title II of the American Dream and Promise Act of 2021 (H.R. 6) House in the 117th Congress. Title II of the American Dream and Promise Act of 2021 (H.R. 6)
would have allowed individuals who were eligible for TPS as of January 1, 2017, or DED as of would have allowed individuals who were eligible for TPS as of January 1, 2017, or DED as of
January 20, 2021, and who had been in the United States for three years to become LPRs. These January 20, 2021, and who had been in the United States for three years to become LPRs. These
provisions would have applied to nationals of 14 countries. H.R. 6 also included a provision provisions would have applied to nationals of 14 countries. H.R. 6 also included a provision
(§203) that would have clarified that TPS recipients are considered “inspected and admitted” for (§203) that would have clarified that TPS recipients are considered “inspected and admitted” for
purposes of adjustment to LPR status.purposes of adjustment to LPR status.~~187~~203 The Farm Workforce Modernization Act of 2021 (H.R. The Farm Workforce Modernization Act of 2021 (H.R.
1603) would have established a process for certain farm workers in the United States to obtain a 1603) would have established a process for certain farm workers in the United States to obtain a
legal temporary status and then LPR status. TPS and DED recipients who met the farm work and legal temporary status and then LPR status. TPS and DED recipients who met the farm work and
other requirements under the bill would other requirements under the bill would behave been eligible. H.R. 6 and H.R. 1603 passed the House on eligible. H.R. 6 and H.R. 1603 passed the House on
March 18, 2021. The Senate Judiciary Committee held a hearing on H.R. 6 on June 15, 2021; no March 18, 2021. The Senate Judiciary Committee held a hearing on H.R. 6 on June 15, 2021; no
further action was taken on these two bills in the 117th Congress. Similar bills have been further action was taken on these two bills in the 117th Congress. Similar bills have been
introduced in the 118th Congress (the American Dream and Promise Act of 2023, H.R. 16; the introduced in the 118th Congress (the American Dream and Promise Act of 2023, H.R. 16; the
DIGNIDAD Act of 2023, H.R. 3599; and the Farm Workforce Modernization Act of 2023, H.R. DIGNIDAD Act of 2023, H.R. 3599; and the Farm Workforce Modernization Act of 2023, H.R.
4319); they have not seen 4319); they have not seen additional legislative action as of the cover date of this report. action as of the cover date of this report.
Legislative Activity in the 118th Congress
Various bills related to TPS and DED have been introduced in the 118th Congress.Various bills related to TPS and DED have been introduced in the 118th Congress.~~188~~204 These These
include bills that would designate include bills that would designate ~~Lebanon~~certain countries for TPS, for TPS,~~189~~205 make TPS and DED beneficiaries eligible make TPS and DED beneficiaries eligible
for federal financial aid for higher education,for federal financial aid for higher education,~~190~~206 make TPS and DED beneficiaries eligible for make TPS and DED beneficiaries eligible for
congressional employment,congressional employment,~~191~~207 make TPS beneficiaries eligible for enlistment in the Armed make TPS beneficiaries eligible for enlistment in the Armed

~~186~~202 See archived CRS Report R43097, See archived CRS Report R43097, Comprehensive Immigration Reform in the 113th Congress: Major Provisions in
Senate-Passed S. 744. .
~~187~~203 For more information, see CRS Legal Sidebar LSB10607, For more information, see CRS Legal Sidebar LSB10607, Supreme Court: Unlawful Entrants with Temporary
Protected Status Cannot Adjust to Lawful Permanent Resident Status. .
~~188~~204 The bills described in this section are those that were identified by CRS by searching congress.gov using the The bills described in this section are those that were identified by CRS by searching congress.gov using the
following terms: “temporary protected status,” “8 U.S.C. 1254a,” and “deferred enforced departure.” Bills that mention following terms: “temporary protected status,” “8 U.S.C. 1254a,” and “deferred enforced departure.” Bills that mention
TPS or DED only in “Findings” sections are not discussed. TPS or DED only in “Findings” sections are not discussed.
~~189 H.R. 2913.~~
~~190~~205 See, for example, H.R. 2913, H.R. 7034, H.R. 7371, and S. 3618. 206 See, for example, H.R. 4117 See, for example, H.R. 4117 ~~and~~, H.R. 1701 H.R. 1701, and S. 1963. 207.
~~191~~ H.R. H.R. ~~1382~~1381 and S. 672. and S. 672.
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Forces, Forces,~~192~~208 and provide for adjustment to LPR status for certain TPS and DED recipients. and provide for adjustment to LPR status for certain TPS and DED recipients.~~193~~209 Other Other
bills introduced in the 118th Congress seek to limit TPS, such as by making ineligible individuals bills introduced in the 118th Congress seek to limit TPS, such as by making ineligible individuals
who are members of criminal who are members of criminal ~~gangs194~~gangs210 or who hold travel documents issued by the Palestinian or who hold travel documents issued by the Palestinian
Authority.Authority.~~195~~211 One bill takes a multi-pronged approach that includes requiring congressional One bill takes a multi-pronged approach that includes requiring congressional
approval for extensions of TPS designations beyond a country’s first extension; prohibiting approval for extensions of TPS designations beyond a country’s first extension; prohibiting
designations for countries whose designations designations for countries whose designations ~~were~~had been terminated in the terminated in the ~~last~~previous 18 months under certain 18 months under certain
conditions; making individuals who entered the United States unlawfully ineligible for TPS; conditions; making individuals who entered the United States unlawfully ineligible for TPS;
limiting DHS authority to waive certain grounds of inadmissibility for TPS applicants; and limiting DHS authority to waive certain grounds of inadmissibility for TPS applicants; and
imposing additional restrictions on TPS recipients who travel abroad.imposing additional restrictions on TPS recipients who travel abroad.~~196~~212
Table 3. Individuals with Temporary Protected Status by State of Residence
Individuals

Individuals
State
with TPS
State
with TPS
Alabama Alabama
~~1,690~~2,550
Nevada Nevada
~~3,975~~4,510
Alaska Alaska
~~250~~315
New Hampshire New Hampshire
~~420~~520
Arizona Arizona
~~2,100~~3,095
New Jersey New Jersey
~~26,120~~31,480
Arkansas Arkansas
2, 2,~~860~~950
New Mexico New Mexico
~~375~~510
California California
~~62,520~~67,800
New York New York
~~56,500~~67,840
Colorado Colorado
~~4,665~~6,590
North Carolina North Carolina
~~18,515~~22,140
Connecticut Connecticut
~~4,520~~5,510
North Dakota North Dakota
~~185~~325
Delaware Delaware
~~2,510~~3,185
Ohio Ohio
~~8,315~~12,775
District of Columbia District of Columbia
2, 2,~~685~~860
Oklahoma Oklahoma
~~2,290~~3,120
Florida Florida
~~240,295~~295,720
Oregon Oregon
~~1,820~~2,705
Georgia Georgia
~~22,830~~29,630
Pennsylvania Pennsylvania
~~8,305~~11,955
Hawaii Hawaii
~~170~~230
Rhode Island Rhode Island
1, 1,~~110~~340
Idaho Idaho
~~405~~605
South Carolina South Carolina
~~4,105~~5,835
Il inois Il inois
~~11,265~~19,730
South Dakota South Dakota
~~275~~355
Indiana Indiana
~~12,865~~18,775
Tennessee Tennessee
~~7,010~~10,295
Iowa Iowa
~~1,595~~2,005
Texas Texas
~~75,030~~93,680
Kansas Kansas
~~1,510~~2,090
Utah Utah
~~6,480~~10,215
Kentucky Kentucky
~~2,230~~3,225
Vermont Vermont
6080
Louisiana Louisiana
2, 2,~~395~~860
Virginia Virginia
~~24,450~~26,080
Maine Maine
~~320~~455
Washington Washington
~~6,030~~9,500
Maryland Maryland
~~26,930~~28,700
West Virginia West Virginia
~~275~~320
Massachusetts Massachusetts
~~23,675~~27,780
Wisconsin Wisconsin
~~1,525~~
~~Michigan~~
~~2,580~~
~~Wyoming~~
902,400

~~192~~208 S. 2401. S. 2401.
~~193~~209 See, for example, H.R. 16, H.R. 3043, H.R. 3194 See, for example, H.R. 16, H.R. 3043, H.R. 3194, H.R. 3599, H.R. 4319, H.R. 7298, S. 365, S. 1392, S. 365, S. 1392, S. 1727, and , and S. 4069. 210~~S. 1727.~~
~~194~~ H.R. 367. H.R. 367.
~~195~~211 H.R. 6164 and H.R. 6211. H.R. 6164 and H.R. 6211.
~~196~~212 S. 207. S. 207.
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Michigan 4,000 Wyoming 130 Minnesota 4,720~~Minnesota~~
~~3,580~~
U.S. Virgin Islands U.S. Virgin Islands
2, 2,~~330~~560
Mississippi Mississippi
~~555~~675
Puerto Rico Puerto Rico
~~490~~610
Missouri Missouri
2, 2,~~125~~790
Other/Unknown Other/Unknown
~~600~~1,650
Montana Montana
~~105~~155

Nebraska Nebraska
1, 1,~~620~~950
Total
~~697,530~~863,880
Source: Data provided to CRS by USCIS. Data provided to CRS by USCIS.
Notes: Numbers are rounded to the nearest five by USCIS and may not sum to total due to rounding. These Numbers are rounded to the nearest five by USCIS and may not sum to total due to rounding. These
data reflect individuals with TPS as of data reflect individuals with TPS as of ~~September 30, 2023~~March 31, 2024, who had not obtained LPR status or U.S. citizenship. , who had not obtained LPR status or U.S. citizenship.
The data may include individuals who have left the country or died since their last TPS approval, and do not The data may include individuals who have left the country or died since their last TPS approval, and do not
necessarily include all nationals from the specified countries who are in the United States and are eligible for the necessarily include all nationals from the specified countries who are in the United States and are eligible for the
status. “Other” includes Federated States of Micronesia, Northern Mariana Islands, Marshall Islands, Palau, status. “Other” includes Federated States of Micronesia, Northern Mariana Islands, Marshall Islands, Palau,
American Samoa, Guam, and the Armed Forces. American Samoa, Guam, and the Armed Forces.

Author Information

Jill H. Wilson Jill H. Wilson

Analyst in Immigration Policy Analyst in Immigration Policy

Disclaimer
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