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DHS Announces Temporary Immigration Reprieve for Lebanese Nationals: A Critical Lifeline Amid Crisis

Posted by Paul Saluja | Oct 18, 2024

In a significant development, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has unveiled new measures to provide much-needed temporary immigration reprieve for Lebanese nationals currently in the United States. As of October 16, 2024, Lebanese nationals may be eligible for two major forms of protection: Temporary Protected Status (TPS) and Deferred Enforced Departure (DED). These initiatives reflect the U.S. government's recognition of the ongoing armed conflict and the extraordinary circumstances in Lebanon that prevent safe return for its nationals. Here's what this means and how eligible individuals can take action.

Temporary Protected Status (TPS) Designation for Lebanon

DHS, in consultation with interagency partners, has designated Lebanon for Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for a period of 18 months. This decision is rooted in the deteriorating security situation along the Israel-Lebanon border, which makes it unsafe for Lebanese nationals to return home. Under the TPS designation, Lebanese nationals (or stateless individuals who last resided in Lebanon) who have been continuously residing in the United States since October 16, 2024, will be eligible to apply for TPS. However, individuals who entered the U.S. after this date will not be eligible.

What Does TPS Provide?

For those granted TPS, the benefits are twofold: protection from deportation and the ability to request work authorization. This provides an important layer of stability while the U.S. engages in diplomatic efforts aimed at fostering lasting peace in the region. It's important to note that TPS is not automatic—eligible individuals must apply and be approved. Details about the application process will be provided in a forthcoming Federal Register Notice, so Lebanese nationals should refrain from submitting applications until DHS publishes the official notice in the coming weeks.

Deferred Enforced Departure (DED) and Employment Authorization

In addition to TPS, DHS has formalized procedures for Lebanese nationals covered by President Biden's July 2024 Deferred Enforced Departure (DED) directive. DED, like TPS, offers protection from deportation but is specific to certain nationalities based on the president's discretion. Lebanese nationals eligible for DED can also apply for Employment Authorization Documents (EADs), which will be valid through January 25, 2026. These EADs are essential for maintaining lawful employment during the DED period and can be obtained by submitting Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization, to U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).

Special Student Relief for Lebanese F-1 Students

Beyond TPS and DED, DHS has also extended Special Student Relief (SSR) to F-1 nonimmigrant students from Lebanon. This relief allows Lebanese F-1 students to apply for work authorization, work additional hours while maintaining their F-1 status, and reduce their academic course load during this period of crisis. It's estimated that around 1,740 Lebanese students in the U.S. could benefit from these adjustments, providing much-needed flexibility as they navigate their studies amidst the turmoil in their home country.

Key Takeaways for Lebanese Nationals

For approximately 11,000 Lebanese nationals, these DHS actions offer an opportunity for protection and stability. While the U.S. government works towards a long-term resolution to the conflict, TPS, DED, and SSR provide immediate relief. Eligible individuals should closely monitor DHS and USCIS announcements and prepare to submit their applications once the Federal Register Notice is published.

Saluja Law advises those eligible to consult with legal professionals to ensure compliance with application requirements and maximize the benefits of these protections. As always, we remain committed to providing timely updates on immigration policies that affect individuals and their families. Should you have any questions regarding TPS, DED, or Special Student Relief, please don't hesitate to reach out to our team for guidance.

About the Author

Paul Saluja

Paul Saluja is a distinguished legal professional with over two decades of experience serving clients across a spectrum of legal domains. Graduating from West Virginia State University in 1988 with a bachelor's degree in chemistry, he continued his academic journey at Ohio Northern University, gr...

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