Humanitarian
Form I-821
Application for Temporary Protected Status
Used to apply for Temporary Protected Status (TPS) when the Secretary of Homeland Security designates a country for TPS due to ongoing armed conflict, environmental disaster, or other extraordinary conditions.
- Filing fee
- $510
- From October 16, 2026: $520
- Biometrics
- $30
Who can file
- Nationals of a TPS-designated country
- Must have been continuously present in the U.S. since the designation date
- Must have been continuously residing in the U.S. since the specified date
- Must register during the open registration period
Send with it
- Proof of nationality (passport, birth certificate)
- Proof of continuous residence in the U.S.
- Proof of continuous physical presence
- Passport-style photos
- Evidence of identity
Worth knowing
- File during the registration period - late filings are generally not accepted
- You can apply for an EAD at the same time with I-765
- TPS must be re-registered each time the designation is extended
- TPS does not lead directly to a green card, but it provides work authorization and protection from removal
Common mistakes
- Missing the registration period
- Not re-registering when TPS is extended
- Insufficient evidence of continuous presence
- Confusing initial registration with re-registration
Questions
- How much does Form I-821 cost?
- The USCIS filing fee for Form I-821 is $510. Biometrics cost $30 more. From October 16, 2026 it is $520.
- How long does Form I-821 take?
- Typically 3 to 12 months, depending on the office and the category. Check the current USCIS times for your office before you plan around it.
Often filed together with
Related forms
Fees are as published by USCIS. Confirm on USCIS's fee schedule (G-1055) before you pay - a wrong fee gets a filing rejected. General information, not legal advice.