Across America's vibrant cities, Ethiopian immigrants pursue their dreams while navigating the challenges of displacement from their homeland's turbulent conditions. For those facing uncertainty, Temporary Protected Status (TPS) has emerged as a crucial legal safeguard, allowing them to live and work in the United States without fear of deportation.

What is Temporary Protected Status (TPS)?

Temporary Protected Status is a special immigration designation that provides lawful residence to individuals unable to return to their home countries due to ongoing armed conflict, environmental disasters, or extraordinary conditions. Established by Congress in 1990, TPS serves as both humanitarian protection and a bridge to stability for affected populations.

For Ethiopian beneficiaries, TPS offers three critical protections:

  • Legal authorization to remain in the United States
  • Eligibility for employment authorization documents
  • Protection from removal proceedings

Eligibility Requirements for Ethiopian Nationals

The Department of Homeland Security's designation for Ethiopia includes specific criteria applicants must meet:

Nationality and Residence Requirements

Applicants must demonstrate Ethiopian nationality or, in the case of stateless persons, habitual residence in Ethiopia prior to entering the United States. Continuous physical presence in the U.S. since April 11, 2024 is mandatory.

Travel Restrictions

Any international travel occurring after June 13, 2024 may disqualify applicants unless specifically authorized in advance by USCIS for emergent humanitarian reasons.

Criminal Bars

Certain criminal convictions, particularly felonies or two or more misdemeanors committed in the United States, may render applicants ineligible. USCIS conducts thorough background checks as part of the adjudication process.

The Application Process: A Step-by-Step Guide

1. Document Preparation

Gather evidence establishing:

  • Identity and nationality (passport, birth certificate, national ID)
  • Date of entry (I-94 arrival record, visa stamps)
  • Continuous residence (utility bills, lease agreements, employment records)

2. Form I-821 Completion

The current version of Form I-821 (Application for Temporary Protected Status) remains valid until January 20, 2025. Applicants should:

  • Download the form directly from USCIS.gov to ensure version accuracy
  • Complete all sections in English using black ink
  • Sign and date the application

3. Fee Payment

Filing fees include:

  • $50 for the TPS application (or fee waiver request)
  • $85 biometric services fee (if under age 14 or over age 79)
  • $410 optional employment authorization application

4. Submission Options

Applicants may file:

  • Online: Through the USCIS online filing system with digital document uploads
  • By Mail: To the appropriate USCIS lockbox facility with return receipt requested

Post-Submission Procedures

Within 3 weeks of submission, applicants should receive:

  • A receipt notice with unique case number
  • Biometrics appointment notice (if applicable)

Processing times typically range from 6-8 months. During this period:

  • Check case status online using the USCIS Case Status Tool
  • Respond promptly to any Requests for Evidence (RFEs)
  • Update address changes within 10 days using Form AR-11

Benefits of TPS Designation

Beyond deportation protection, TPS holders gain:

  • Work authorization renewable every 18 months
  • Eligibility for advance parole travel documents
  • Exemption from public charge determinations

The current designation period runs through December 12, 2025, with automatic extensions possible if conditions in Ethiopia persist.

Conclusion

For Ethiopian immigrants facing impossible return scenarios, TPS represents more than legal status—it offers the opportunity to rebuild lives disrupted by conflict. With proper preparation and timely filing, eligible individuals can secure this vital protection before the December 12, 2025 deadline.

As Secretary of Homeland Security Alejandro Mayorkas noted in the Federal Register announcement, "This designation reflects our commitment to providing temporary refuge when extraordinary conditions prevent safe return." For qualifying Ethiopians in America, TPS may be the foundation for their next chapter.