Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for South Sudan

Updated July 21, 2025
TPS for South Sudan has been extended through November 3, 2025. Find information for those who already have TPS and get work and travel permit information. Know what to do when TPS ends.
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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.

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

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The information on this page comes from DHS, USCIS, and other trusted sources. We aim to offer easy to understand information that is updated regularly. This information is not legal advice.