What is TPS
Temporary Protected Status (TPS) is a form of immigration status for people already in the United States. TPS is for people who cannot go back to their home country because of danger, such as an armed conflict or environmental disaster.
If you have TPS, you can:
- Stay in the U.S. legally for a period of time
- Apply for a work permit in the U.S.
- Apply to travel outside of the U.S.
- Be protected from detention and deportation
You will not get any of the benefits of TPS until your application is approved. TPS is temporary. It does not give you lawful permanent status, citizenship, or any permanent immigration status.
Go to the USCIS TPS South Sudan page for more details. |
Current TPS holders
If you already have TPS South Sudan under a previous designation, you must have re-registered by November 6, 2023, to extend your benefits through May 3, 2025. If you were applying for the first time, you must have applied by May 3, 2025.
If you had a pending Form I-821 or Form I-765 as of May 6, 2025, you do not need to file either application again. If USCIS approves your pending applications, they will now be valid through November 3, 2025. |
Work permit
Work permits are available to people with TPS and are known as an Employment Authorization Document (EAD). It shows employers that you are allowed to work in the USA.
You can apply for work authorization by filing Form I-765. It is recommended to apply at the same time you apply for TPS. Filing both forms together may help you get an EAD faster. You can also apply after.
If you apply during the current registration period, your work permit will be valid through November 3, 2025.
If you have TPS under a previous designation, USCIS has automatically extended the expiration date of EADs for TPS South Sudan holders to November 3, 2025, for those whose EADs expired on the following dates:
- May 3, 2025
- November 3, 2023
Travel permit
Travel permits are available to people with TPS. It is known as advanced parole. It shows immigration officials that you are allowed to travel abroad and back to the USA.
You can apply for a travel permit by filing Form I-131. Follow the Federal Register notice instructions when applying for a travel permit.
Before traveling outside the USA, talk to a lawyer. Immigration rules may change and it is important to know if it is safe to travel.
What happens when TPS expires?
If you do not have another legal immigration status besides TPS, you will become undocumented and lose your work authorization. If you stay without legal status, you will risk being detained and deported.
How to prepare
- Talk to an immigration lawyer. It is important to seek legal help and learn about your options for staying in the U.S.
- Apply for another immigration status if you qualify. Review if you are eligible for asylum, lawful permanent status (Green Card), or other U.S. visas.
- Be prepared for ICE. Know what to do if you are undocumented and agents come to your home or work. Know your rights and how to create a safety plan.
- Stay informed. Learn more about immigration changes under the new administration.

Learn how to find free or low-cost help from trusted immigration lawyers and legal representatives.
इस पेज पर जानकारी DHS, USCIS, और अन्य भरोसेमंद स्रोतों से आती है. हमारा उद्देश्य है कि हम आसानी से समझ में आने वाली जानकारी प्रदान करें, जिसे नियमित रूप से अपडेट किया जाता रहे. यह जानकारी कानूनी सलाह नहीं है.