Secretary of Homeland Security Alejandro N. Mayorkas has declared an extension and redesignation of Yemen for Temporary Protected Status (TPS), effective from September 4, 2024, through March 3, 2026. This decision comes in response to ongoing armed conflict and severe humanitarian conditions in Yemen, which make it unsafe for Yemeni nationals to return home.
The redesignation allows approximately 1,700 Yemeni nationals (and those without nationality who last habitually resided in Yemen) who have continuously resided in the United States since July 2, 2024, to apply for TPS. Additionally, around 2,300 current beneficiaries will retain their TPS status through the designated period if they meet eligibility requirements.
Secretary Mayorkas emphasized the dire situation in Yemen, noting that years of conflict have led to critical shortages of basic necessities such as water, food, and medical care, pushing the country toward economic collapse. This extension enables eligible Yemenis in the U.S. to remain and work legally until conditions in Yemen improve sufficiently for safe return.
Key Details of the Announcement:
Initial Applications: Eligible Yemeni nationals residing in the U.S. since July 2, 2024, can submit initial TPS applications under the redesignation.
Re-registration: Current TPS beneficiaries must re-register between July 10, 2024, and September 9, 2024, to maintain their status through March 3, 2026. Employment Authorization Documents (EADs) are automatically extended through September 3, 2025.
Federal Register Notice: Detailed guidelines regarding eligibility, application timelines, and procedures for both new applicants and current beneficiaries are available in the Federal Register.
Special Student Relief: F-1 nonimmigrant students from Yemen or those last habitually residing in Yemen can request employment authorization and adjust their academic responsibilities to maintain status during the TPS period.
USCIS Processing:
USCIS will continue processing pending TPS applications filed under previous designations for Yemen.
Individuals with pending Form I-821 or related Form I-765 applications as of July 10, 2024, do not need to re-file, and approvals will extend their TPS and EADs through March 3, 2026.
Enforcement and Border Security:
Secretary Mayorkas reaffirmed the administration’s commitment to enforcing U.S. immigration laws, including the removal of noncitizens without legal standing to remain in the country. The announcement follows recent efforts under the Securing the Border Presidential Proclamation and Interim Final Rule to address irregular migration.
For more information, individuals are encouraged to review the Federal Register notice and visit the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) website for detailed guidance on TPS eligibility and application processes.
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The Department of Homeland Security originally published this release.
