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July 1, 2003 BCIS Extends Temporary Protected Status (TPS) For Nationals of Montserrat WASHINGTON, D.C. – The Bureau of Citizenship and Immigration Services (BCIS) today announced the extension of Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for nationals of Montserrat for an additional year until August 27, 2004. Nationals of Montserrat who are currently registered under the TPS program must re-register during the 60-day period from July 1, 2003 until September 2, 2003. The extension of TPS for Montserrat is effective August 27, 2003, and will remain in effect until August 27, 2004. Nationals of Montserrat who are currently registered under the TPS program must re-register during the 60-day period from July 1, 2003 until September 2, 2003. Under the extension, those who already have TPS are eligible to live and work in the United States for an additional year and continue to maintain their status. Applicants for extension can begin applying immediately. The TPS re-designation for Montserrat will affect approximately 325 nationals. The Secretaries of Homeland Security and Department of State have recently examined conditions in Montserrat and found that a further extension is warranted due to the continued threat of further volcanic eruption, the serious health risks from volcanic ash, and the lack of infrastructure, including no functioning airport. To re-register for the extension a TPS applicant must submit Form I-821 and Form I-765 (Application for Employment Authorization), as well as two identification photographs (1 ½" x 1 ½") to the local BCIS district office in the jurisdiction of the re-registrant. Both forms must be submitted for re-registration. If the applicant is only seeking to re-register for TPS and not seeking an EAD extension, there is no filing fee. However, all applicants seeking an extension of employment authorization until August 27, 2003, must submit a $120 filing fee with Form I-765 (Application for Employment Authorization). The applicant may request a fee waiver in accordance with the regulations. The applicant for an extension of TPS benefits does not need to submit new fingerprints and therefore do not need to submit a $50 fee. These forms are available from the toll-free BCIS Forms line, 1-800-870-3676, or from the BCIS Web site, www.bcis.gov. Failure to submit the required photographs and filing fees will result in the rejection of the re-registration application. Those granted TPS must receive advance permission to return to the United States before traveling abroad. Individuals who are granted TPS may apply for advance parole by filing Form I-131 at their local BCIS district office or with the BCIS Service Center in their jurisdiction. # # # |
Last Modified 07/03/2003