News & Insights

What Is Temporary Protected Status (TPS)?

TPS is a temporary immigration status provided to nationals of certain countries experiencing conditions that make safe return impossible. The United States has extended and redesignated TPS for Cameroon due to ongoing armed conflict, human rights abuses, and extraordinary conditions.

Key Details About TPS for Cameroon:

Who Qualifies?

• Cameroonian nationals (or individuals with no nationality who last resided in Cameroon) who have been continuously residing in the U.S. since October 5, 2023, and continuously physically present since December 8, 2023, may apply for TPS.
• Those who arrived after October 5, 2023, are not eligible.

Timeline:

• TPS for Cameroon is valid from December 8, 2023, to June 7, 2025.
• Initial applications can be submitted until June 7, 2025.

Benefits of TPS:

• Protection from deportation.
• Work authorization (via Form I-765).
• Eligibility to apply for travel authorization.

For more information, refer to the DHS TPS announcement for Cameroon.

What Is Asylum?

Asylum is a form of protection for individuals who fear persecution in their home country based on:

• Race.
• Religion.
• Nationality.
• Political opinion.
• Membership in a particular social group.

Key Details About Asylum:

Who Qualifies?

• Cameroonian nationals who have a credible fear of returning to Cameroon due to persecution on one of the five grounds listed above.

Timeline:

• You must apply for asylum within one year of your arrival in the U.S., unless you qualify for an exception (e.g., changed or extraordinary circumstances).

Benefits of Asylum:

• A pathway to permanent residence (green card) and eventual U.S. citizenship.
• Ability to include certain family members in your asylum application.
• Eligibility to apply for a work permit if your asylum case is pending for more than 150 days.

For more details, visit the USCIS Asylum page.

Can You Apply for Both TPS and Asylum?

Yes, you can apply for TPS and asylum at the same time because these are separate legal protections. Here’s how the two interact:

No Conflict Between Applications:

• Filing for TPS does not affect your asylum application. Likewise, pursuing asylum does not interfere with your eligibility for TPS.

Complementary Protections:

• TPS provides temporary protection and work authorization while your asylum application is being processed, which can take years.
• Asylum, if granted, offers permanent protection and a path to citizenship.

Work Authorization:

• You can apply for work authorization through both TPS and asylum. TPS-based work permits are often processed faster, providing immediate stability.

Backup Plan:

• If your asylum application is denied, TPS ensures you can remain in the U.S. temporarily while exploring other legal options.

Practical Considerations for Cameroonian Nationals

Applying Simultaneously:

• You can submit Form I-821 for TPS and Form I-589 for asylum at the same time. Each application must meet its respective requirements.

Deadlines:

• TPS has specific registration periods. For Cameroonians, the initial registration period runs from October 10, 2023, through June 7, 2025.
• Asylum applicants must generally file within one year of entry unless exceptions apply.

Dual Work Permits:

• If eligible, you can apply for work authorization under both programs. However, only one permit will be issued at a time.

Changing Circumstances:

• TPS does not lead to permanent residency but can protect you while your asylum case is pending.

Key Legal Foundations

• TPS: INA § 244 (8 U.S.C. § 1254a).
• Federal Register Notice: Extension and Redesignation of Cameroon for TPS (December 2023).
• Asylum: INA § 208 (8 U.S.C. § 1158).
• USCIS Asylum Procedures: Guidelines and processes for asylum applicants.

Resources for Further Guidance:

• USCIS TPS Overview
• USCIS Asylum Overview
• DHS Announcement on TPS for Cameroon