Temporary Protective Status (TPS) is ending for El Salvador!

TPS for citizens of El Salvador will be ending on September 9, 2019. It has been estimated that almost 200,000 people currently have TPS through the program. It is important to note that if you have a work permit, it has been automatically extended until September 5, 2018.  If you need a work permit that goes through September 9, 2019, you should have filed for it when you re-registered for TPS.  The re-registration period for TPS for El Salvador ended on March 19, 2018.

What do I need to show my employer my work permit has been extended through September 5, 2018?

Your work permit through TPS with a March 9, 2018 expiration date and a copy of the Federal Register notice announcing the automatic extension.  You can find a copy of it here: https://www.federalregister.gov/documents/2018/01/18/2018-00885/termination-of-the-designation-of-el-salvador-for-temporary-protected-status

What will happen once my TPS ends?

We are unsure what will happen. There is a risk that you might be put in front of an Immigration judge to decide whether you can continue to stay in the U.S. after that time, or whether you can get a permanent status.   We recommend that you consult with our office to see if you have any options to obtain permanent status in the U.S.

What sorts of things can affect me getting permanent status inside the U.S.?

Many things should be evaluated when looking at your options to see how you may be able to permanently stay inside the U.S. including, but not limited to:

• Any criminal arrests or criminal cases anywhere in the world;
• Any prior deportations;
• Any exits from the U.S. (either with immigration’s permission or without);
• Whether you have close family members who have legal status in the U.S.;
• Whether anyone, including family or an employer, has ever filed immigration paperwork for you;
• Whether you have been the victim of a crime;
• Why you left your country.

What should I do now that my TPS is ending?

DO NOT WAIT – consult with an immigration lawyer to see if you have any options to be well on your way to permanent status before your TPS expires! The best way to properly evaluate what all your options are is to schedule a consultation and be sure to bring all your work permits, TPS applications, advance parole documents (proof of travel outside of the U.S. with immigration’s permission), dockets and police reports for all your criminal arrests, and any immigration paperwork you may have regarding prior deportations or petitions filed for you.

Please call 206-838-7628 to schedule your consultation to evaluate your case now!