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Registration Process for Temporary Protected Status for Cameroon Opens

About six weeks ago the Department of Homeland Security designated Cameroon as the latest country to be granted Temporary Protected Status (TPS). Now the registration process has opened and we encourage all eligible Cameroonians in the U.S. who are without status or are anticipating losing status to apply for TPS.

To be eligible for TPS, a person holding Cameroonian citizenship must have ‘continuously resided' in the U.S. since April 14, 2022, and had ‘continuous physical presence in the U.S. since June 7, 2022. 

What is the difference between ‘Continuous Residence' and ‘Continuous Physical Presence'?

• ‘Continuous residence' means you have maintained a permanent dwelling/domicile/residence in the U.S. since that date. To qualify for TPS you must have resided in the U.S. since April 14, 2022. 
• ‘Continuous physical presence' means you have not left the country since that date. To qualify for TPS you must not have left the U.S. since June 7, 2022. 

The U.S. estimates that about 11,700 individuals may be eligible for TPS under the designation of Cameroon. The Washington D.C. area is home to the majority of Cameroonians who live in this country.

Why Should I Apply for Temporary Protected Status?

• As a TPS recipient you are not removable from the U.S., and may be granted travel authorization upon request. 
• Once granted TPS, you cannot be detained by the Department of Homeland Security on the basis of your immigration status in the U. S.
• If you obtain TPS you are eligible to also receive an employment authorization (EAD) card to work in the U.S. for the duration of your TPS.

When Should I Apply for Temporary Protected Status?

• The registration period for TPS for Cameroon is open June 7, 2022 through December 7, 2023, but USCIS encourages eligible individuals to register as soon as possible. 

Important Things to Know When Applying for Temporary Protected Status:

• This TPS designation will last until December 7, 2023. 
• You can apply for employment authorization at the same time as TPS. 
• When applying through USCIS  you will need:
• Evidence to prove your identity and nationality;
• Evidence to prove your date of entry into the United States;
• Evidence to prove your residence in the United States; and
• Court disposition records (if you were ever arrested, charged, or convicted for a criminal offense).*
• TPS is not an automatic status. If you feel you are eligible for TPS you will need to apply for it. 

*If you have criminal convictions you should consult with an experienced immigration attorney regarding TPS.

If you have questions about how you or a loved one can apply for TPS please reach out to us at (757) 422-8472, or send us a message on our website. You can also schedule an appointment with one of our attorneys by clicking on this link.