The Path to Safety: TPS, Parole, and Other Humanitarian Protections
When people flee their home countries because of violence, disasters, or persecution, they often arrive in the United States with one question:
“Can I stay safe here?”
The U.S. government offers several humanitarian protections designed to shield individuals from being forced back into dangerous situations. While each program is different, they share one goal: protection through compassion.
At AG Law Firm, we’ve helped hundreds of individuals find safety through humanitarian programs such as Temporary Protected Status (TPS), Humanitarian Parole, and other forms of relief that offer hope — even in the most uncertain times.
What Is Temporary Protected Status (TPS)?
Temporary Protected Status (TPS) is a humanitarian program that allows individuals from certain countries experiencing unsafe conditions to live and work legally in the United States for a temporary period.
TPS is granted by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) when a country faces conditions such as:
Armed conflict or war
Natural disasters (earthquakes, hurricanes, etc.)
Extraordinary and temporary conditions that prevent safe return
Benefits of TPS:
Protection from deportation while TPS is active
Eligibility for a work permit (EAD)
Authorization to apply for travel permission (Advance Parole)
Potential eligibility for other immigration relief in the future
Countries Currently Designated for TPS (as of 2025):
Venezuela, El Salvador, Honduras, Haiti, Nicaragua, Nepal, Ukraine, Sudan, South Sudan, Syria, Afghanistan, Cameroon, and others (check the most recent Federal Register for updates).
Important: TPS does not automatically lead to permanent residency, but it provides a critical shield and stability for those in danger.
What Is Humanitarian Parole?
Humanitarian Parole allows individuals to enter or remain in the U.S. temporarily for urgent humanitarian reasons or significant public benefit — even if they would otherwise be inadmissible under immigration law.
It’s often used in emergencies where traditional visa routes are unavailable or too slow.
Examples include:
Evacuees from war-torn regions (e.g., Afghanistan, Ukraine, Gaza).
Individuals needing urgent medical treatment unavailable in their home country.
Family reunification when waiting for visa processing could cause undue hardship.
Victims of trafficking, violence, or abuse seeking immediate protection.
Key details:
Parole is temporary (usually up to one year, renewable).
Applicants can apply for a work permit after approval.
It does not provide lawful permanent status, but it can open doors to other relief, like asylum or adjustment of status, later.
Other Humanitarian Protections You Should Know
Beyond TPS and Parole, the U.S. offers other forms of humanitarian relief for people facing crisis or persecution:
1. Asylum
Protection for individuals who fear persecution in their home country based on race, religion, nationality, political opinion, or membership in a particular social group.
Those who are approved asylum can apply for a green card after one year.
2. U Visa
Provides protection and work authorization for victims of certain crimes who assist law enforcement in investigations.
3. T Visa
For victims of human trafficking, allowing survivors to rebuild their lives safely in the U.S.
4. VAWA (Violence Against Women Act)
Allows spouses, children, or parents of abusive U.S. citizens or residents to self-petition for status without the abuser’s involvement.
5. Deferred Action (Humanitarian or Medical)
Temporarily halts deportation for individuals with severe medical conditions or other humanitarian factors that make removal unjust.
How to Know Which Program Fits Your Situation
Each humanitarian program has its own eligibility criteria, filing deadlines, and supporting evidence requirements. Choosing the right one is crucial.
AG Law Firm helps clients:
Evaluate eligibility for TPS, Parole, or Asylum.
Gather and organize humanitarian evidence (medical, country reports, family ties).
File strong, timely applications with USCIS or ICE.
Renew or transition to permanent options when possible.
Our team treats every humanitarian case with the urgency and compassion it deserves — because for many families, these applications are about survival, not paperwork.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Missing deadlines — TPS and Parole often have short filing windows.
Submitting incomplete or inconsistent evidence.
Relying on notarios or unlicensed consultants instead of accredited attorneys.
Failing to renew TPS or Parole before expiration.
Assuming these protections guarantee a Green Card (they do not, but they can be a first step).
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Can I apply for TPS and Asylum at the same time?
Yes, it’s possible to hold TPS while your asylum case is pending. Both processes are independent.
2. Can I travel abroad while under TPS or Parole?
Only with Advance Parole approved by USCIS. Traveling without it can result in losing protection.
3. Can TPS lead to a Green Card?
Not automatically — but some beneficiaries may adjust status through family or employment-based petitions.
4. Can I work under Parole or TPS?
Yes. You can apply for an Employment Authorization Document (EAD) as soon as your application is approved.
Why Choose AG Law Firm
At AG Law Firm, we believe humanitarian immigration is about more than forms — it’s about protecting lives, preserving families, and giving people a second chance.
Our team has successfully represented clients from countries like Venezuela, Haiti, Afghanistan, and Ukraine, helping them obtain TPS, Humanitarian Parole, and other relief options.
We handle each case with empathy, precision, and urgency — because we know that in these moments, every hour matters.
Final Thoughts
Programs like TPS and Humanitarian Parole remind us that immigration law isn’t just about borders — it’s about humanity.
If you or someone you know is facing danger or uncertainty, you don’t have to face it alone.
Contact AG Law Firm today to explore your options and take the first step toward safety and stability.