The Secretary of Homeland Security announced the extension of the Temporary Protected Status (TPS) designation for South Sudan for 18 months through Nov. 2, 2020.

Key points:

  • Current beneficiaries of South Sudan TPS designation will be required to re-register in order to extend their status and work authorization through Nov. 2, 2020.
  • Instructions on the re-registration period are expected to be published soon in the Federal Register.
  • To be eligible for South Sudan TPS, individuals must have continuously resided in the U.S. since Jan. 25, 2016 and have been continuously physically present in the U.S. since May 3, 2016, among other eligibility requirements.

Background: South Sudan was originally designated for TPS status on Nov. 3, 2011 and was redesignated for TPS in 2014 and 2016. The Secretary has determined that the conditions supporting the TPS designation, including ongoing armed conflict, continue to exist in the country. There are 84 South Sudan TPS holders in the United States.

BAL Analysis: South Sudan TPS holders should not file any forms until the reregistration period opens and instructions are announced. BAL will report the re-registration details for current South Sudan TPS holders when the instructions are published.

This alert has been provided by the BAL U.S. Practice group. For additional information, please contact berryapplemanleiden@bal.com.

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