On June 6, 2022, Cameroon was designated by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) for Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for a period of 18 months. This term runs from June 7, 2022 through December 7, 2023.
This designation allows Cameroonian nationals (and stateless persons who were last ordinarily resident in Cameroon) who have been residing in the United States since April 14, 2022, and have been physically present in the United States since June 7, 2022, to apply for TPS.
So how do you apply for temporary protected status as a Cameroonian? What are the requirements? Answers in this article.
What are the reasons for this TPS designation for Cameroon?
According to a statement from the Department of Homeland Security, the United States recognizes the ongoing armed conflict in Cameroon and we will provide temporary protection to those in need.
The Secretary of State Alejandro N. Mayorkas explains that Cameroonian nationals currently residing in the U.S. who cannot safely return to their country due to the extreme violence perpetrated by government forces and armed separatists and the increase in Boko Haram attacks will be able to stay and work in the U.S. until conditions in their country improve.
What are the eligibility requirements for Temporary Protected Status for Cameroon?
To be eligible for TPS as a Cameroonian, individuals must demonstrate continuous residence in the United States as of April 14, 2022. In addition, they must demonstrate continuous physical presence in the United States as of June 7, 2022.
Cameroonian nationals arriving in the U.S. after April 14, 2022 are not eligible for TPS under this designation and may be deported if they have no other authorization to enter the country.
How do I apply for temporary protected status for Cameroon?
Applicants for Cameroonian-designated TPS must file Form I-821, Application for Temporary Protected Status, during the initial 18-month registration period from June 7, 2022 to December 7, 2023. Cameroonian applicants eligible for TPS may complete the I-821 form online.
They may also request employment authorization documents by submitting a completed Form I-765 (Employment Authorization Request) with their Form I-821 when submitting the TPS petition.
The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has provided specific explanations on the ADE issue. It states that TPS-based ADEs have A12 or C19 codes. Once USCIS issues a TPS-based EAD, the individual can work.
All employees, including those with a TPS-based EAD under the Cameroon TPS designation, must submit documentation that they are authorized to work in order to complete the Form I-9 verification process.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the workforce that will be eligible under this TPS designation for Cameroon?
According to U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services, 11,700 individuals may be eligible.
Need for help ?
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