TPS for Yemen: extensions, redesignations, eligibility, and filing steps

Temporary Protected Status (TPS) lets eligible Yemeni nationals (and certain stateless people last residing in Yemen) live and work in the U.S. temporarily when DHS designates or redesignates Yemen. However, your path depends on whether you are re-registering (already have TPS) or making an initial application under a redesignation.

Key concepts (read this first)

Designation / Redesignation: May open TPS to new applicants who have continuous residence in the U.S. since the cutoff date in the Federal Register notice (FRN).
Extension: Keeps protection for current TPS holders and sets a re-registration window—re-register on time.
FRN is the source of truth: It lists dates, EAD auto-extensions, and instructions. Therefore, always confirm the latest FRN before filing.

Who can apply (high level)

You may qualify if you:

Are a Yemeni national (or last habitually resided in Yemen if stateless),
Meet the FRN’s continuous residence and continuous physical presence dates,
Are admissible (no disqualifying crimes/security bars), and
File on time (or show humanitarian reasons if late).

Which path fits you?

Re-registration (current TPS): File Form I-821 and, if needed, Form I-765 to renew your EAD.
Initial TPS (redesignation): File I-821 + I-765 (for work authorization). You can request a fee waiver with Form I-912 if eligible.
Asylum or other filings pending? You can apply for TPS in addition—it does not cancel other cases.

Work permits & categories

Request an EAD via Form I-765. Approved TPS uses category A12; C19 can apply while TPS is pending.
Check the FRN for any automatic EAD extensions and validity dates.

Travel while on TPS

Apply for advance parole before any international travel. Leaving without parole can abandon your TPS application or trigger re-entry problems. We confirm current rules before you travel.

Evidence checklist (submit with I-821/I-765)

Identity & nationality: Yemeni passport, birth certificate + photo ID, or other credible nationality proof.
Residence & presence: I-94 (if any), visas, leases, utility bills, pay stubs, bank/school/medical records showing you were in the U.S. on and after the FRN dates.
Photos: two passport-style photos (per USCIS specs).
Criminal records: certified court dispositions for any arrests/charges—even dismissed.
Fee waiver (if used): Form I-912 + proof of income/benefits/hardship.

Filing steps (quick checklist)

Read the latest FRN for Yemen (dates, re-reg window, auto-EAD info).
Complete I-821 (TPS) and I-765 (EAD) and gather evidence.
Include fees or I-912 with proof.
File online (preferred) or by mail per USCIS instructions.
Attend biometrics and answer any RFE on time.
Re-register during each extension to keep protection and EAD current.

Common pitfalls (and how to avoid them)

Missing the re-reg window → re-register early as soon as the window opens.
Thin residence proofs around the FRN dates → collect monthly proofs (bills, bank statements).
Address changes → file AR-11 immediately to avoid missed notices.
Travel without parole → request advance parole first.
Unreviewed criminal history → bring all records; some offenses can bar TPS.

FAQs

Does TPS lead to a green card?
TPS is temporary; however, some people later adjust through family or employment if otherwise eligible.

Will my EAD auto-extend?
Sometimes—therefore, rely on the FRN and your I-797C notice for the exact dates.

Can I apply if I entered without inspection?
Usually yes. TPS eligibility generally does not depend on manner of entry (still check the bars).

Can I keep my asylum pending?
Yes. Filing TPS does not cancel asylum; many applicants do both.

How we help

First, we verify you meet the FRN dates and screen for risks. Next, we prepare I-821/I-765 with strong residence/presence evidence. Then, we track biometrics, RFEs, and EAD timing. Finally, we calendar re-registrations so your protection never lapses.

Need help with TPS for Yemen (extension or redesignation)? Schedule a consultation or call (562) 495-0554.

Disclaimer: General information, not legal advice. TPS dates and procedures change; we confirm the latest Federal Register notice before filing.

DHS Extends & Redesignates Yemen for TPS—and Renews Special Student Relief

The Department of Homeland Security has extended and redesignated Yemen for Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for 18 months, covering September 4, 2024, through March 3, 2026. This protects eligible Yemeni nationals in the U.S. from removal and allows them to apply for work authorization (EAD) during the designation.

Who qualifies for TPS (Yemen)

Yemeni nationals (and certain stateless persons who last habitually resided in Yemen) who meet continuous residence/physical presence dates set in the Federal Register notice, pass security checks, and are otherwise admissible. Approved applicants receive protection from removal and can request an EAD.
The official USCIS TPS–Yemen page includes re-registration windows for current beneficiaries and the process for initial filings under the redesignation.

Special Student Relief (SSR) for Yemeni F-1 students

DHS also renewed Special Student Relief for F-1 students from Yemen through March 3, 2026—temporarily suspending certain rules so eligible students facing severe economic hardship may work more hours (including expanded off-campus options) and reduce course loads while maintaining F-1 status.

Action steps

For TPS-eligible Yemenis

File Form I-821 (and I-765 for an EAD) following the dates and instructions in the Federal Register notice; use the latest USCIS forms/fees.
Gather proof of identity, Yemeni nationality, continuous residence/physical presence, and any prior TPS approvals.
Check the USCIS TPS–Yemen page for re-registration timing and processing updates.

For Yemeni F-1 students

Confirm SSR eligibility with your Designated School Official (DSO); request the required SEVIS notation before applying for off-campus employment.
If seeking an EAD under SSR, file Form I-765 with the correct eligibility category and attach the SSR Federal Register notice for I-9 and employer clarity.

Why this matters
TPS offers life-saving stability and work authorization while conditions in Yemen remain unsafe; SSR prevents students from having to choose between status compliance and economic survival. Together, these measures provide a lawful bridge through March 3, 2026.