Bill Introduced in Congress to Grant Citizens of Nepal Temporary Protected Status

Contributed by Kim Tremblay, Associate Attorney

Citizens of Nepal impacted by the recent earthquake who currently have status in the United States or are waiting to obtain status, may benefit from certain relief measures that the U.S. government has put into place.  Attorney Melanie Corrin blogged about these measures on May 6, 2015.

In addition to the measures announced to help Nepali nationals in the United States, a bill was introduced in Congress on April 27, 2015 to grant Nepali citizens Temporary Protected Status (“TPS”).  The government has historically granted temporary status to nationals of countries impacted by certain  natural and human-made disasters.  Usually these designations allow citizens of the designated country who have been physically present in the United States from a certain date to apply.  Most recent TPS designations include Haiti and Syria.  Individuals granted TPSreceive temporary status and work authorization that typically lasts eighteen months and must be renewed.  They can also apply for authorization to travel outside of the United States temporarily.  The bill introduced would permit Nepali citizens who have been in the United States since April 25, 2015 to apply.  Certain criminal convictions disqualify individuals from applying for TPS.  

The bill is currently under review by the Subcommittee on Immigration and Border Security. Thus, Nepalis should beware of claims that they are currently eligible for TPS and should look out for DHS updates on TPS for citizens of Nepal.   

Moreover, if you think you can benefit from the measures announced earlier this month, you should contact an immigration attorney for assistance. 

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