DHS Affirms Lebanon Temporary Protected Status

Breaking News!

The U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) made a publication of the Federal Register notice, which is designating Lebanon for Temporary Protected Status. This is a significant headway, especially with what is going on with current events. It goes without saying, but innocent lives and citizens are the first victims of tragic battles and or wars. Rather than taking sides and debating who is in the right, this is informative on helping to achieve safety for those who don’t deserve these circumstances. The country of Lebanon has been in turmoil for some time now, but this year, in particular, things are heating up. Keep in mind, Lebanon is still recovering from the Beirut port explosion back in August 2020. With the current widespread humanitarian crisis, political instability, collapsing economy, food shortage, and many more, Homeland Security took the initiative to assist those who are seeking help. 

What is Temporary Protected Status?

For those who do not know, Temporary Protected Status (TPS) is a humanitarian immigration program that provides relief to foreign nationals from countries experiencing ongoing armed conflict, environmental disasters, or conditions that allow a safe return back to the U.S. This gives them the chance to stay in our country, for a designated period of time, and to avoid deportation. This also gives them opportunities to apply for employment authorization. However, this does not mean that TPS aims towards permanent residency but solely to protect people from harm from their native land and or avoid deportation during their time of designation in the States. The DHS determined that Lebanon meets the criteria for TPS designation. The U.S. wants to ensure the safety of its own citizens residing in Lebanon, including the country’s nationals. 

Eligibility

To qualify for TPS status under Lebanon designation, applicants must meet certain eligibility requirements:

1. Nationality: Applicants must be nationals of Lebanon and or individuals who aren’t nationals but reside within the country in question.
2. Physical Presence in the States: Individuals who have been present and or resided in the United States since Oct. 16, 2024, and continuously physically present in the United States since Nov. 27, 2024.
3. Criminal History: Individuals that has committed wrongdoings cannot be an applicant due to association of a crime or illegal activities.
4. Application Forms: to apply, eligible individuals must submit form I-821 for TPS and form I-765 for work authorization. These forms will ask for documentation to prove their eligibility.

Benefits

The DHS is offering 11,000 applicants for TPS. Applicants, upon approval, may benefit in the following: 

1. Protection from Deportation: TPS grants relief from deportation, allowing individuals not to be removed from the States while the country of Lebanon is in disarray.
2. Work: You can apply for employment authorization, which lets anyone seek work legally in the U.S. to support themselves and their families.
3. Travel: This may apply to some but not all; however, TPS recipients can seek permission to travel outside the States. This works separately upon request.
4. Legal Status: while it is temporary within the designated time of 18 months, you’re still allowed to remain legally without any fear from the outside world and or deportation/detention.

How To Apply

It was briefly mentioned, but it is worth elaborating on how to apply. DHS has the essential guidelines on its site, but you always need legal, up-to-date documents that can prove your eligibility, such as passports, national ID cards, or other official documents that can further help with your applications. The DHS website has the I-821 form, which is necessary to sign. However, signing for I-765 is optional; it’s provided for anyone who wants to work legally in the States. Once filled out, submit your applications to the correct USCIS address, or make an account with DHS and sign in to apply online. Your application will then be under review, and you will be notified based on their decision. Remember, turn in anything and everything that helps your case to becoming an approved applicant.  

Conclusion
In summary, Temporary Protected Status (TPS) is about offering safety and support to those escaping dangerous conditions in their home country. Lebanon’s designation reflects a humanitarian effort to protect lives and provide opportunities for those in need.

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