The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has announced an extension and redesignation of Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for Burma (Myanmar). The new designation extends TPS until May 25, 2024, and opens up eligibility to more individuals, including all Burmese nationals residing in the U.S. as of September 25, 2022. This extension comes in response to the ongoing humanitarian crisis and widespread violence in Burma, which followed a military coup in February 2021. The military junta’s actions, including brutal violence against civilians, have made it unsafe for individuals to return to Burma.
Key Points:
- TPS Extension: TPS for Burmese nationals is extended for 18 months, running from November 26, 2022 to May 25, 2024.
- Redesignation: TPS eligibility is now extended to all Burmese nationals residing in the U.S. as of September 25, 2022.
- Reason for Extension: The extension is based on the ongoing human rights violations, armed conflict, and violence that make it unsafe for Burmese nationals to return to their country.
- Eligibility:
- 970 beneficiaries currently receiving TPS will benefit from this extension.
- An estimated 2,000 more individuals are now eligible to apply for TPS under the redesignation.
- Application Process:
- Current TPS holders under the initial designation should continue to file their applications.
- New applicants can file Form I-821, Application for Temporary Protected Status, by May 25, 2024.
- USCIS will continue processing pending TPS applications.
DHS Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas emphasized that this move will allow Burmese nationals to stay in the U.S. temporarily while conditions in their home country improve.
