1. How long does it take to become a U.S. citizen?

It typically takes between 6 and 10 months to become a U.S. citizen, depending on the individual’s immigration status and the type of application they file.

2. What is the process for a TPS holder to apply for U.S. citizenship?

The process for a TPS holder to apply for U.S. citizenship is as follows:

1. File Form N-400, Application for Naturalization.

2. Attend an interview at your local USCIS office.

3. Pass the naturalization test and complete any other requirements necessary for naturalization.

4. Take the Oath of Allegiance at a naturalization ceremony.

3. Who is eligible to apply for U.S. citizenship through TPS?

U.S. Citizenship through TPS is available to any individual who is a national of a country designated for TPS, who has continuously resided in the United States since the date their country was designated for TPS, and who has been continuously physically present in the United States since the most recent designation date or the effective date of the most recent extension of the TPS designation for that country.

4. What rights do TPS holders have while in the U.S.?

TPS holders generally have the same rights as other non-citizens living in the U.S. legally. They may not vote, but they are allowed to travel outside the U.S. and re-enter with their TPS status intact, provided that the time of their travel does not exceed their approved period of stay. TPS holders are also eligible to receive a work permit, allowing them to work legally in the United States. Some states even grant TPS holders a driver’s license and other benefits, such as access to health care and education. In addition, TPS holders can receive temporary protection from removal from the United States and may be eligible for certain forms of relief from deportation.

5. How does a TPS holder maintain valid status?

TPS holders must follow the rules and regulations they are given by U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) in order to remain in valid status. Generally, this requires that TPS holders: (1) Re-register by submitting an application for TPS during each designated renewal period; (2) Maintain a valid employment authorization document (EAD) issued by USCIS; (3) Comply with any other requirements set by USCIS; and (4) Not commit any crimes that would make them ineligible for TPS or other immigration benefits.

6. What documents are needed to apply for U.S. citizenship through TPS?

In order to apply for U.S. citizenship through TPS (Temporary Protected Status), applicants must provide several documents. These include:

1. Evidence of eligibility for TPS, such as a Form I-797 Notice of Action from USCIS or an approved Notice of Eligibility from the Department of Homeland Security.
2. Evidence of physical presence in the United States on the designated effective date, such as a passport, visa, or other travel document.
3. Two passport-style photographs taken within 30 days of filing the application.
4. A copy of your foreign birth certificate or other government-issued identification.
5. A completed and signed Form N-400, Application for Naturalization.
6. A completed and signed Form I-945, Declaration of Intent to Become a U.S. Citizen.
7. A copy of your medical records or other proof of satisfactory medical examination results showing that you are not inadmissible to the US on medical grounds.
8. Any other evidence requested by USCIS to prove that you meet all requirements for naturalization.

7. How does a TPS holder adjust their status to become a lawful permanent resident?

A TPS holder can adjust their status to become a lawful permanent resident by filing Form I-485, Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status, with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). The form will need to be accompanied by supporting documentation proving the applicant’s eligibility for permanent residence and other specified documents.

8. Is there a cost associated with applying for U.S. citizenship through TPS?

Yes, there is a fee associated with applying for U.S. citizenship through TPS. The application fee is $725, which includes a $640 application fee and a $85 biometric services fee.

9. Does a TPS holder need to have a sponsor to become a U.S. citizen?

No, a TPS holder does not need to have a sponsor to become a U.S. citizen. A TPS holder can apply for U.S. citizenship through the naturalization process, which requires that the applicant meet certain eligibility requirements, such as continuous residence, good moral character, and other criteria.

10. When does the Temporary Protected Status program end?

The Temporary Protected Status (TPS) program is set to expire on January 4, 2021.

11. Is there an English language requirement for applying for U.S. citizenship through TPS?

Yes, all applicants for U.S. citizenship through TPS must demonstrate a basic understanding of the English language. The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) requires applicants to pass an English language test or demonstrate knowledge of the English language through a U.S. high school diploma or GED.

12. How much time does a TPS holder need to prove continuous residence in the U.S.?

TPS holders must prove they have had continuous physical presence in the United States for at least the last 5 years.

13. Are there any restrictions on traveling outside of the United States while on TPS?

Yes, travelers on Temporary Protected Status (TPS) must obtain permission from U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) before traveling outside of the United States. It is important to note that TPS holders are not eligible to receive a passport or visa from their countries of origin, so they must apply for a Travel Document from USCIS in order to re-enter the United States. Additionally, TPS holders must remain in the United States for at least 180 days prior to their departure.

14. What is the interview process for U.S. citizenship through TPS?

The interview process for U.S. citizenship through Temporary Protected Status (TPS) includes completing an application and submitting supporting documentation, attending a biometrics appointment, attending an interview, and completing a citizenship test.

The application and supporting documents must include proof of identity, proof of nationality, proof of continuous residence, and proof of admissibility. Biometrics appointments involve collecting fingerprints and taking a photograph. Interviews are conducted by U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) officers who will ask questions about the application and background. The citizenship test includes questions about U.S. history and government as well as the English language.

15. Does having a criminal record disqualify someone from becoming a U.S citizen through TPS?

No, having a criminal record does not automatically disqualify someone from becoming a U.S citizen through TPS. However, a criminal record may negatively affect the applicant’s chances of becoming a U.S citizen through TPS, depending on the severity of the crimes committed and other factors.

16. How can someone apply for discretionary relief as a TPS holder?

There is no discretionary relief available specifically to TPS holders. However, TPS holders may be eligible for other forms of discretionary relief, such as prosecutorial discretion or deferred action. Those that have TPS can apply for relief from deportation through USCIS and seek a temporary stay of removal. Individuals may also seek discretionary relief under other immigration laws, including U-Visas, Violence Against Women Act (VAWA) self-petitions, and asylum.

17. Is there any relief from removal available to someone with TPS who is facing deportation?

Yes, there are multiple forms of relief from removal available to someone with TPS who is facing deportation. These include asylum, adjustment of status, cancellation of removal, and voluntary departure. Additionally, those with TPS may be able to take advantage of other forms of relief such as waivers or discretionary forms of relief.

18. What are the benefits of becoming a U.S citizen through TPS?

The benefits of becoming a U.S citizen through Temporary Protected Status (TPS) include:

• The ability to work legally in the United States and the ability to obtain an Employment Authorization Document (EAD).

• The ability to travel outside the United States and re-enter, provided that the individual has a valid TPS re-entry permit.

• Access to Social Security benefits, including retirement, disability, and survivor benefits.

• Access to certain federal means-tested public benefits such as Supplemental Security Income (SSI) and Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF).

• Protection from removal or deportation from the United States.

• The ability to apply for a green card—lawful permanent resident status—after meeting certain conditions.

19. Are there any work restrictions for someone with TPS in the United States?

Yes, individuals with TPS are restricted from certain forms of employment. Individuals with TPS cannot work for any foreign government or international organization, and they must not engage in activities that could harm the United States or its people. Additionally, individuals with TPS may not be employed in any capacity that would require them to be members of the Communist Party or to engage in espionage, sabotage, or terrorism.

20 What steps must be taken once approved for naturalization as a U.S citizen through TPS?

Once approved for naturalization as a U.S citizen through TPS, the following steps must be taken:

1. Attend a USCIS-scheduled naturalization ceremony.
2. Take the Oath of Allegiance to the United States.
3. Receive a Certificate of Naturalization.
4. Notify USCIS that you have completed the naturalization process by filing Form N-445, Notice of Naturalization Oath Ceremony.
5. Update any relevant documents, such as your Social Security cards and driver’s license, to reflect your new status as a U.S citizen.