On Monday, March 8, 2021, the White House announced that it would be granting Temporary Protective Status (TPS) to Venezuelans living in the U.S. Beginning on March 9, 2021, nationals of Venezuela are eligible to apply for permission to remain in the U.S.
What is TPS?
Created by Congress in 1990, TPS is a temporary immigration status provided to nationals of specifically designated countries that are experiencing problems that would make it unsafe for them to return to their home country. Venezuela received TPS designation due to the political and economic crisis it is experiencing, which includes widespread hunger and malnutrition, a growing influence and presence of non-state armed groups, repression, and a crumbling infrastructure. TPS status protects individuals from being deported from the U.S., and allows them to obtain a work permit and travel authorization. However, TPS is a temporary status and does not lead to a permanent immigration status.