Green Card for Liberians In TPS or DED

If you are a Liberian that has been living in America under Temporary Protected Status (TPS) and/or Deferred Enforced Departure (DED), you should know that until December 20, 2020, you have the opportunity to apply for permanent residence(green card). This is based on the Liberian Refugee Immigration Fairness (LRIF) law, created uniquely for Liberians that cannot return to Liberia safely to apply for permanent residence.

Liberian nationals that have been in the United States since November 20, 2014 qualify for a green card under LRIF. Their family members may apply with them and do not need to be Liberian or present since November 20, 2014. All members, including the principal applicant, must be admissible and not have been convicted of a felony or crimes of moral turpitude. 

Furthermore, DED for Liberia was meant to expire on March 30, 2020, but this has been postponed to January 10, 2021. DED is what allows many Liberians to work legally in the United States. With this extension, Liberians will be able to renew their work authorization under DED before they undergo the process of getting their green card. Then, when they file their Form I-485 (Application for Permanent Residence), they can also seamlessly extend their work authorization (Form I-765) as an adjustment applicant. This presents a very good opportunity for qualifying Liberians to settle into the United States once and for all.

If you think you qualify and want to pursue permanent residence through LRIF, do not wait. LRIF only lasts until December 20, 2020. DED is also soon coming to a close on January 10, 2021. There are special instructions for Liberian Refugee Immigration Fairness Applicants when filing the I-485 adjustment application.  It is recommended that you seek a qualified attorney to help you in the process, especially if you need a waiver for inadmissibility or other eligibility issues. 

(Immigration laws and policies change regularly.  If you have any questions regarding this article, please visit www.1visa1.com to schedule legal consultation.)