Department of Homeland Security Offers Protections for Lebanese Nationals Currently in the United States

October 17, 2024

On October 17, 2024, the Department of Homeland Security (“DHS”) announced the designation of Lebanon for Temporary Protected Status (“TPS”) for 18 months. In the news release announcing the designation, DHS explained that the TPS designation resulted from “ongoing armed conflict and extraordinary and temporary conditions in Lebanon that prevent nationals of Lebanon from returning in safety.” Lebanese nationals (and individuals having no nationality who last habitually resided in Lebanon) eligible for TPS under this designation must have continuously resided in the United States since October 16, 2024. Individuals who attempt to travel to the United States after October 16, 2024 will not be eligible for TPS under this designation. Additional information, including how to apply for employment authorization, will be included in a future Federal Register Notice that DHS expects to publish within the next few weeks.

United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (“USCIS”) also posted a Federal Register Notice establishing procedures for Lebanese nationals covered by President Biden’s July 26, 2024 grant of Deferred Enforced Departure (“DED”) to apply for Employment Authorization Documents. Eligible Lebanese nationals can apply for employment authorization by submitting a completed Form I-765 (“Application for Employment Authorization”). Approved employment authorization documents will be valid through January 25, 2026.

Additionally, DHS is publishing a Special Student Relief Notice for F-1 nonimmigrant students whose country of citizenship is Lebanon (or individuals having no nationality who last habitually resided in Lebanon).  Special Student Relief suspends restrictions related to on- and off-campus employment and alters full course of study requirements for eligible F-1 students. Eligible students will be able to apply for an EAD, work an increased number of hours while school is in session, and reduce their course load while continuing to maintain F-1 status through the DED designation period.

To discuss what potential impact this may have on your case, please request a consultation with one of our attorneys by filling out our Consultation Request Form.

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