On October 17, 2024, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) announced significant measures to support eligible Lebanese nationals currently residing in the United States. These new actions provide temporary immigration relief and include pathways for work authorization. This post will outline the details of these protections, including Deferred Enforced Departure (DED), a new Temporary Protected Status (TPS) designation, and Special Student Relief (SSR) for F-1 students, and how certified translations can play a crucial role in the application process.

1. Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for Lebanon

The DHS has designated Lebanon for Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for 18 months due to ongoing armed conflict and extraordinary conditions that make returning to Lebanon unsafe. Lebanese nationals, as well as individuals without nationality who last habitually resided in Lebanon, are eligible to apply for TPS if they have been continuously residing in the U.S. since October 16, 2024.

Important Details:

• Only individuals residing in the U.S. since October 16, 2024, are eligible.
• Applications for TPS, including requests for employment authorization, should be filed once the Federal Register Notice is published.
• More information about TPS requirements and how to apply will be available in the forthcoming notice from DHS.

Importance of Certified Translations: Applicants may need certified translations of key documents, such as birth certificates, marriage certificates, or other proof of identity and residency, to complete their TPS applications. Rush Translations can help ensure your documents meet USCIS standards for certified translations.

2. Deferred Enforced Departure (DED) for Lebanese Nationals

The DHS is implementing DED for certain Lebanese nationals, as granted by President Biden’s July 26, 2024, order. This policy allows eligible individuals to remain in the U.S. and apply for Employment Authorization Documents (EADs) valid through January 25, 2026.

How to Apply for DED-Based EADs:

• Eligible individuals must submit Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization, to USCIS.
• Applications will be reviewed on a case-by-case basis to confirm eligibility.

For complete instructions on applying for DED-based EADs, refer to the USCIS page on Deferred Enforced Departure.

Certified Translations for EAD Applications: Submitting documents like academic transcripts or police clearance certificates as part of your application may require certified translations. Rush Translations ensures that your documents meet USCIS guidelines for accuracy and completeness.

3. Special Student Relief (SSR) for F-1 Nonimmigrant Students

The DHS has also introduced Special Student Relief (SSR) for F-1 nonimmigrant students from Lebanon or those without nationality who last habitually resided in Lebanon. This relief allows eligible students to:

• Request employment authorization.
• Work an increased number of hours while school is in session.
• Reduce their course load while maintaining their F-1 student status throughout the DED period.

Eligibility for SSR:

• Approximately 1,740 F-1 students from Lebanon in the U.S. may qualify for this relief.
• Students must adhere to the specific guidelines and application procedures set by their educational institutions and USCIS.

Academic Document Translations: Students applying for SSR may need to submit academic documents that are translated and certified. Rush Translations can help with certified translations of transcripts, diplomas, and recommendation letters, ensuring compliance with USCIS and university requirements.

Certified translations are a crucial part of many immigration and student visa applications. Whether applying for TPS, DED, or SSR, ensuring your documents are translated accurately and certified by a trusted provider like Rush Translations can prevent delays and increase the likelihood of application approval.

Why Choose Rush Translations?

• USCIS-Approved Translations: Our certified translations are recognized by USCIS and other government agencies.
• Fast Turnaround: We offer quick and reliable services to meet urgent application deadlines.
• Expertise Across Languages: Our team specializes in translating documents into English from Arabic and over 100 other languages, ensuring your documents are precise and compliant.

The DHS’s recent actions provide essential relief for Lebanese nationals and students in the U.S., granting them opportunities for work authorization and temporary residency. Whether you’re applying for TPS, DED, or Special Student Relief, having your documents in order is critical. Certified translations from Rush Translations ensure that your applications are complete, accurate, and compliant with USCIS standards.

For reliable, certified translation services that meet all USCIS requirements, contact us today or request a free quote to get started.