Form I-821: Application for Temporary Protected Status (TPS)

Applying for Temporary Protected Status (TPS) in the United States involves filling in Form I-821. Those looking for safety from countries with situations that make returning unsafe must have this form. Among these include natural disasters, continuous armed conflict, or other exceptional situations. This thorough guide will walk you through all you need to know about Form I-821, including how to apply for TPS, fees connected with TPS applications, and more.

What is Form I-821?

The official U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) form used to apply for TPS is Form I-821, sometimes referred to as the Application for Temporary Protected Status. If they satisfy the eligibility requirements, TPS lets citizens of specific nations stay and work in the United States temporarily.

If your nation is assigned Temporary Protected Status, you can apply for I-821 to get legal protection from deportation and, most usually, work authorization. Though it provides temporary protection, TPS is not an alternative to permanent residency or citizenship.

How to Apply for Temporary Protected Status

Completing Form I-821 is the initial step toward requesting Temporary Protected Status in the United States. These guidelines help to guarantee a strong application:

1. Get Form I-821 straight from the USCIS website. Access the I-821 form and either hand- or digitally fill it out.
2. Again, go over the Form I-821 instructions and read them carefully. USCIS’s Form I-821 instructions cover who qualifies for TPS, what supporting documentation is required, and how to properly file the form.
3. Accurately complete every part. Missing or inaccurate information could slow down your application process. Particularly with relation to your details and immigration history, make sure you give honest and accurate responses.
4. Provide supporting documentation. You will have to provide proof demonstrating your TPS eligibility criteria. This can include documentation of your present immigration status, evidence of nationality, and proof of ongoing U.S. residence.
5. Pay the filing fees. Your age and whether you are also requesting a work permit affect the Form I-821 fee. More specifics regarding the TPS application fee are described below.

TPS Filing Costs

Applying calls for an awareness of the expenses related to TPS. If you are seeking a work permit or travel document, the cost for a TPS application can comprise the application charge, biometric services fee, and extra costs.

1. How much is the TPS fee? The TPS filing fee is $50 for most applicants; those between 14 and 79 years old pay an extra biometric fee of $85. Your situation may affect the TPS renewal fee for 2024 somewhat.
2. What is the TPS renewal cost? The TPS renewal fee for 2024 is generally the same as the initial filing fees, though some applicants may qualify for a fee waiver.
3. Those who have previously applied for TPS and are renewing their status must pay TPS re-registration fees. Re-filing Form I-821 together with a TPS re-registration fee is part of this.

To verify the total expenses particular to your case if you are not sure about the exact price, visit the USCIS Form I-821 charge calculator on their website.

Form I-821 Instructions: Step-by-Step Guide

Although completing Form I-821 can seem difficult, closely following the Form I-821 guidelines will help you avoid typical errors. The most critical parts are broken out here:

• Part 1: Personal Details: Your personal information—name, date of birth, country of origin—must be entered here. Make sure this detail complements your other immigration records.
• Part 2: TPS Application Type: Indicate if this is your first TPS application or a re-registration.
• Part 3: Information Processing: This covers inquiries on your past criminal activity and present immigration status. Giving truthful responses here is quite important.
• Part 4: Travel document for TPS: If you intend to go outside the United States on TPS, you may have to seek a TPS travel document. Make sure you finish this part if travel is on your agenda.
• Part 5: Signature and Certification: Sign the form to ensure the information is accurate once you have gone over all of your responses.

How to File for TPS

You can either send in your TPS application primarily two ways:

1. Paper Submission: Mail your completed I-821 form, together with the necessary papers and fees, to the right USCIS address. To prevent delays, make sure you use the exact Form I-821 mailing address provided in the instructions.
2. Online Filing: USCIS now provides the choice to submit TPS applications online. You can track the state of your application using your online account, and this is a handy approach to apply. If you are filing online, go to the USCIS website to follow guidance on how to file TPS online.

How to Fill TPS Form Online

Online filing lets you electronically complete the form using the USCIS website. Here’s the method:

1. Open a USCIS online account. Filing your TPS form online starts with this.
2. Upload your documents. Save the necessary paperwork for your online application. Make sure every one of your files is properly clear.
3. Online filing fee payment. The secure USCIS payment system lets you pay the I-821 form fee.
4. Submit your application. Apply once everything is in order and keep the confirmation for your records.

Employment and Travel During TPS

You can be qualified to seek employment permission and a travel document for TPS while on TPS. You should know the following:

• TPS work permit category: If you wish to work in the United States, you have to apply under the relevant TPS work permit category. To get work permission, you will have to submit Form I-765 together with your TPS application.
• TPS travel document: If you intend to travel outside the United States during your TPS stay, you will have to request a TPS travel document. Remember that failing to have a travel document when leaving the United States could compromise your TPS status.

Late Initial Application for TPS

If you have missed the TPS first registration period, you may still be qualified to apply under particular circumstances. If you satisfy some requirements, such as having an immigration status that prevented you from applying earlier, a late initial application for TPS could be approved. For specifics on late entries, refer to the Form I-821 guidelines.

TPS and Modification of Status

TPS is a temporary status, hence it does not directly result in permanent residency. Some people, meanwhile, might fit for TPS and adjustment of status using various immigration paths such as family sponsorship or employment-based visas. See an immigration attorney for guidance if you would like to change your status while under TPS.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. One is not paying the proper fees. To help avoid delays, always verify the overall TPS filing fee before applying.
2. Errors or insufficient forms. Make sure every part of Form I-821 is finished correctly—including signatures.
3. Missing deadlines. Remember the re-registration dates and send in your application on schedule.

Contact Passage Law for more information about Form I-821 or help with your TPS application. Our seasoned immigration lawyers can guide you through the complexity of the Temporary Protected Status application process.

Need assistance with your TPS application? Plan a visit with Passage Law right now for professional legal advice.