Navigating Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for Nicaragua: A Comprehensive Guide

In 1998, Hurricane Mitch hit Nicaragua, causing approximately 3,800 deaths. The second deadliest hurricane to ever land in Central America, it caused extensive flooding that claimed lives, properties, and businesses.

The extent of the damage done by Hurricane Mitch prompted the United States to extend Temporary Protected Status (TPS) to Nicaraguan nationals residing in the U.S. The year after the devastation, the Departments of State and Justice declared that Nicaraguan citizens and those who had last resided in the country were eligible to register for TPS.

This blog will explore the intricacies of TPS for Nicaragua, offering a comprehensive understanding of its provisions, conditions, and the role of legal assistance in the process.

Understanding Temporary Protected Status

Temporary Protected Status is a humanitarian program established by the U.S. government to protect individuals from designated countries facing ongoing armed conflict, environmental disasters, or other extraordinary conditions. The program grants temporary legal status to eligible individuals, allowing them to live and work in the United States until conditions in their home country improve.

TPS for Nicaragua commenced on January 5, 1999, in response to the impact of Hurricane Mitch, which landed in Nicaragua in October 1998. The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) manages the TPS, overseeing applications, renewals, and compliance, while the Secretary of Homeland Security designates a foreign country for TPS.

To qualify for TPS, individuals must meet specific criteria, including nationality requirements, continuous residence in the U.S. since 1999, and absence of disqualifying criminal convictions. TPS beneficiaries may also receive employment authorization and are protected from deportation during the designated period.

TPS Eligibility for Nicaragua

Nicaraguan nationals seeking TPS must meet stringent eligibility criteria established by the USCIS. These are the requirements:

• They must be able to demonstrate continuous physical presence in the United States since January 5, 1999, and continuous residence in the United States since December 30, 1998.
• Applicants must not have been convicted of certain criminal offenses or pose a threat to national security.
• They must also have applied for TPS within the registration period, which began on January 5, 1999, and ended on July 5, 1999.

The USCIS periodically reviews country conditions in Nicaragua to determine whether TPS should be extended, terminated, or redesignated. As of this date, the TPS for Nicaragua remains effective. The re-registration was extended from November 6, 2023, to Jan. 5, 2024.

Re-registration Period and Other Important Dates to Remember

Re-registration is a crucial process for TPS beneficiaries to maintain their legal status and employment authorization. During designated re-registration periods, eligible individuals must submit Form I-821, Application for Temporary Protected Status, and any required supporting documents and fees.

It is essential to stay updated on re-registration deadlines and other important dates related to TPS for Nicaragua, including:

July 5, 2025: The TPS for Nicaragua is extended up to this date.

November 6, 2023 – July 5, 2025: Re-registration period for those applying for TPS under the designation FRN 88 FR 40294F, announced last June 21, 2023.

June 30, 2024: The Auto-Extension of Employment Authorization Document (EAD) for current beneficiaries under the 1999 TPS designation has been extended to this date.

How Can an Immigration Lawyer Help?

Navigating the complexities of TPS applications, renewals, and compliance can be daunting. A knowledgeable  immigration lawyer provides invaluable assistance throughout the process, ensuring that applicants meet eligibility requirements, submit accurate documentation, and adhere to the guidelines.

Immigration lawyers offer legal guidance, representation, and advocacy to individuals seeking protection under the program. From initial applications to appeals and legal challenges, a skilled attorney can advocate for the rights and interests of TPS beneficiaries, helping them secure and maintain their legal status in the United States.

Protecting Your Rights to a Safer, More Conducive Life

A Temporary Protected Status offers a crucial lifeline to Nicaraguan nationals facing unsafe conditions in their home country. By understanding TPS’s provisions, conditions, and processes, individuals can confidently navigate the system and seek legal assistance when needed.

If you’re a Nicaraguan citizen seeking clarity on the TPS and U.S. immigration policies, don’t hesitate to reach out to Roche Law Group for comprehensive legal assistance.

Our team of immigration attorneys in Long Island will guide you through the intricacies of TPS applications, renewals, and compliance, ensuring the protection of your rights every step of the way.

Contact us today to schedule a consultation and take the first step toward securing your legal status in the United States.