(Updated 10/3 for updates to formatting and details for who this notice applies to.)
On Sept. 26, 2022, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security announced an extension and redesignation of Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for Burma (Myanmar) for 18 months.
The 18-month extension of TPS for Burma is effective Nov. 26, 2022, through May 25, 2024. This extension allows existing TPS beneficiaries to retain TPS through May 25, 2024, if they otherwise continue to meet the eligibility requirements for TPS. Existing TPS beneficiaries who wish to extend their status through May 25, 2024, must re-register during the re-registration period.
The secretary is also redesignating Burma for TPS. The redesignation of Burma allows additional Burmese nationals (and individuals having no nationality who last habitually resided in Burma) who have been continuously residing in the United States since Sept. 25, 2022 to apply for TPS for the first time.
The Federal Register notice published on Sept. 27 explains the procedures necessary for an individual to submit an initial or re-registration application under the extension and redesignation and to apply for an Employment Authorization Document.
TPS can be granted when conditions in a country temporarily prevent that country’s nationals from returning safely. Depending on the situation students granted TPS may be granted benefits such as travel authorization or employment authorization. For more information about TPS and how to apply please see the USCIS official page on Temporary Protected Status.
The notice applies exclusively to F-1 nonimmigrant students who meet all of the following conditions:
- Are citizens of Burma regardless of country of birth (or individuals having no nationality who last habitually resided in Burma);
- Were lawfully present in the United States in an F-1 nonimmigrant status on Sept. 27, 2022;
- Are enrolled in a Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP)-certified school;
- Are currently maintaining F-1 nonimmigrant status; and
- Are experiencing severe economic hardship as a direct result of the humanitarian crisis in Burma.
For those interested in TPS it is recommended that you speak with an immigration attorney of your choice for any questions. ISS Counseling and Legal Resources are available on the ISS website.
