DHS Designates Cameroon for TPS

The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has announced an 18-month designation of Cameroon for Temporary Protected Status (TPS), to take effect upon publication of an upcoming Federal Register notice. Cameroonian nationals eligible for this designation must have continuously resided in the United States since April 14, 2022 to be eligible for TPS. The Federal Register notice providing full details on applying for TPS and related employment authorization is expected shortly.

The issue

In response to the ongoing armed conflict in Cameroon, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has announced an 18-month Temporary Protected Status (TPS) designation for Cameroon, to take effect upon publication of an upcoming Federal Register notice. Individuals eligible for TPS under the Cameroon designation must have continuously resided in the United States since April 14, 2022. TPS applicants must also meet all other eligibility requirements and undergo security and background checks. Those who travel to the United States after April 14, 2022 will not be eligible for TPS.

In the coming days, DHS is expected to publish a Federal Register notice containing filing instructions for those who qualify for the Cameroon TPS designation. These instructions will include information on applying for TPS and on applying for a corresponding employment authorization document that beneficiaries may use to work in the United States during the TPS designation period.