Last updated FEBRUARY 2010
What Workers Should Know About Temporary Protected Status & Proving Work Authorization
What is temporary protected status?
Temporary protected status (TPS) is an immigration status that allows people from certain foreign countries to remain in the United States for a limited period of time. TPS is granted to people from countries where conditions are so unsafe or difficult that it might be dangerous for them to return.
What are the benefits of having TPS?
If you have been granted TPS, during the period of TPS validity:
You may not be deported or removed from the U.S., unless you do something that invalidates your TPS.
You are authorized to work and can obtain an employment authorization document (work permit).
You are permitted to travel outside of the U.S. if you get advance permission from U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (CIS).