DHS extends and redesignates Somalia for TPS and special student relief

TPS and student relief. DHS provided an advance copy of a notice extending the designation of Somalia for Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for 18 months from August 18, 2023 through September 17, 2024. As well as redesignating Somalia for TPS. Re-registration is limited to individuals who previously registered for and were granted TPS under Somalia’s prior designation. All individuals who want to request TPS under Somalia’s designation must apply.

TPS and Student Relief — what students should know and how to preserve status

Temporary Protected Status (TPS) can provide eligible noncitizen students a lawful basis to remain in the United States during designated conditions in their home country. For students, TPS (and related benefits such as Employment Authorization under TPS) may affect schooling, work authorization, and future immigration pathways. Therefore, students should confirm TPS eligibility, preserve academic records, and plan next steps to avoid gaps in status or work authorization.

Who this helps

• Students from TPS-designated countries meeting continuous-residence and physical-presence requirements.
• F-1 and other nonimmigrant students seeking guidance on maintaining SEVIS status while pursuing TPS.
• DACA recipients or parolees whose options intersect with TPS eligibility or travel/work rules.

Key benefits & limits

• Work authorization via Form I-765 while TPS is in effect.
• Protection from removal during designation—but TPS is temporary and not itself a path to LPR.
• Possible effects on SEVIS and nonimmigrant intent—coordinate with counsel and your DSO before accepting EAD.

Quick step-by-step for student applicants

1. Confirm TPS designation and registration/re-registration deadlines.
2. Collect proof of continuous residence and physical presence (transcripts, rent, employment).
3. Prepare Form I-821 and Form I-765 (if requesting EAD) with supporting exhibits and translations.
4. Coordinate with your school DSO about SEVIS impacts, OPT/CPT timing, and enrollment requirements.
5. File per USCIS guidance, save receipts, and respond promptly to biometrics/ RFEs.

Evidence to prepare

• Passport biographic page, national ID, birth certificate (certified translations if needed).
• Proof of residence and enrollment: school transcripts, attendance records, lease/rent receipts, paystubs.
• Immigration docs: I-94, prior EADs, I-20s showing enrollment.
• Certified criminal dispositions if applicable—fully disclose and consult counsel.

Student-specific tips & pitfalls

• Check SEVIS/OPT implications before accepting an EAD—your DSO and counsel can advise.
• Obtain Advance Parole before international travel as TPS travel may affect future benefits.
• Coordinate concurrent immigration applications strategically to preserve options.
• Upload clear, legible scans and certified translations to avoid unnecessary RFEs and delays.

How we help

We screen TPS eligibility, prepare I-821 and I-765 packages for students, coordinate with DSOs, advise on OPT/CPT and travel, prepare Advance Parole filings, and handle RFEs or criminal-history complications.