The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) announced on Wednesday, July 21, that eligible nationals from Burma, Somalia, Syria, Venezuela, or Yemen would have the option to file Form I-821, Application for Temporary Protected Status online. USCIS is starting with these countries because they are either new designations or recently announced re-designations.
What are the Changes?
- First-time TPS applicants from Burma, Somalia, Syria, Venezuela, and Yemen may file Form I-821 online.
- These applicants can also request an Employment Authorization Document by submitting a completed Form I-765, Request for Employment Authorization, with their Form I-821.
- Form I-821 and Form I-765 will be the first forms available for concurrent filing online.
All other TPS applicants and current beneficiaries must continue to file using a paper Form I-821. If applicants, other than those indicated as eligible, file online USCIS will deny their application and retain the fee.
Erickson Insights
USCIS stated it is working to make online applications available for all TPS re-registrants and initial applicants. Over the past 4 years, USCIS has prioritized their technology systems and enabled more applicants to submit and file online. Currently, there are 12 USCIS forms online, streamlining the process for the agency and the applicants.