Syria Redesignated for TPS

On June 17, 2013, the Department of Homeland Security announced that Syrian nationals can reapply for Temporary Protected Status (“TPS”).  This means that individuals from Syria presently in the United States can apply for TPS, which will allow them to receive work authorization and remain in the U.S. until at least March 31, 2015.  This applies to both Syrians who previously registered for TPS and those who have not yet registered.  There are various requirements that must be met (notably, physical presence in the U.S. and no disqualifying criminal conviction).  TPS is often a “backup” status for individuals seeking asylum.  Further, as the Sixth Circuit recently decided, a TPS grant may be considered an admission that would allow a person to adjust status to that of a lawful permanent resident should he or she have a petitioning relative.