What to Expect During TPS Processing

Table Of Contents

What Is the Initial Phase of TPS Processing?

The initial phase of TPS processing involves the submission of your application forms. You submit Form I-821, Application for Temporary Protected Status. You also submit Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorisation. You include all required supporting documents with your application. The Department of Homeland Security receives your application package. The Department of Homeland Security assigns your application a receipt number.
Your application undergoes an initial review for completeness. The Department of Homeland Security checks for all necessary forms and signatures. An incomplete application leads to delays. You receive a receipt notice from the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). The receipt notice confirms USCIS received your application. The receipt notice includes your case number.

How Does Biometrics Collection Work During TPS Processing?

Biometrics collection works through a scheduled appointment at an Application Support Centre (ASC). You receive a biometrics appointment notice after USCIS accepts your application. The biometrics appointment notice specifies the date, time, and location of your appointment. You must attend the biometrics appointment.
At the ASC, USCIS collects your fingerprints, photograph, and signature. These biometrics help USCIS conduct background checks. The biometrics also verify your identity. Failure to attend the biometrics appointment delays your TPS processing. You reschedule the biometrics appointment if you miss the original one.

What to Expect During TPS Processing's Review Stage?

During the review stage, USCIS adjudicators examine your application in detail. USCIS adjudicators verify your eligibility for Temporary Protected Status. USCIS adjudicators compare your submitted documents with the TPS requirements. USCIS adjudicators check for any discrepancies. This stage involves a thorough review of your personal history.
USCIS adjudicators review the TPS application. USCIS adjudicators check for any grounds of ineligibility. Certain criminal convictions make an applicant ineligible for TPS. Certain immigration violations make an applicant ineligible for TPS. USCIS adjudicators issue a Request for Evidence (RFE) when necessary. An RFE asks for additional documents or information. The applicant responds to an RFE promptly. USCIS adjudicators then continue the TPS processing.

What to Expect During TPS Processing: What Is the Interview Process?

The interview process for TPS is not always required. USCIS may schedule an interview if there are questions about your eligibility. The interview takes place at a USCIS field office. You receive an interview notice if an interview is necessary. The interview notice states the date, time, and location.
You attend the interview with your legal representative if you have one. A USCIS officer asks you questions about your application. The USCIS officer asks about your background and your reasons for seeking TPS. You answer all questions honestly and accurately. The interview helps USCIS clarify information.

How Is a TPS Processing Decision Made?

A TPS decision is made after USCIS completes its review of your application. The USCIS adjudicator reviews all submitted evidence. The USCIS adjudicator considers any interview findings. The USCIS adjudicator applies immigration laws and regulations to your case. The USCIS adjudicator makes a recommendation.
A supervisor reviews the adjudicator's recommendation. The supervisor makes the final decision on your TPS application. USCIS sends you a written notice of the decision. The notice informs you whether your TPS application is approved or denied. The notice also explains the reasons for the decision.

What Outcomes Can I Expect During TPS Processing?

The outcomes of a TPS application are either approval or denial. An approval means you receive Temporary Protected Status. You receive an Employment Authorisation Document (EAD). The EAD allows you to work legally. You also receive protection from removal.
A denial means USCIS did not grant you Temporary Protected Status. The denial notice explains the reasons for the denial. You may have options to appeal the decision. You may explore other immigration remedies. You consult with your immigration attorney about next steps.

FAQS

How long does TPS processing typically take?

How long does TPS processing typically take? TPS processing typically takes several months to over a year. The exact timeframe varies by individual case. Processing times depend on USCIS workload. Processing times also depend on the complexity of the application.

Will I receive updates during TPS processing?

You will receive updates during TPS processing. USCIS sends receipt notices and biometrics appointments. USCIS also sends Requests for Evidence and final decision notices. You can check your case status online.

Can I travel outside the country while my TPS application is pending?

A TPS applicant travels outside the country while the TPS application is pending. A TPS applicant possesses advance parole. A TPS applicant without advance parole leaves the country. This action leads to denial of the TPS application. This action also prevents the TPS applicant's re-entry.

What happens if my TPS application is denied?

A TPS application denial results in a denial notice. An applicant may appeal the decision. An applicant explores other immigration options.

Do I need a lawyer for TPS processing?

You do not legally need a lawyer for TPS processing. However, a lawyer provides valuable assistance. A lawyer helps prepare your application accurately. A lawyer responds to RFEs and represents you if an interview is scheduled.

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