This fact sheet is current as of July 11, 2025. It is not legal advice.
Through the Federal Register Notice (FRN) on June 4, 2025, the Secretary of Homeland Security Kristi Noem announced the termination of temporary protected status (TPS) for Cameroon. The designation of Cameroon for TPS expired on June 7, 2025. The termination will be in affect August 4, 2025.
What is temporary protected status (TPS)?
TPS is granted by the Secretary of the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) to eligible foreign-born individuals who are unable to return home safely due to conditions or circumstances preventing their return to their home country.
During the designated TPS period, TPS holders are not removable from the United States and not detainable by DHS based on their immigration status. TPS holders are eligible for an employment authorization document (EAD), and eligible for travel authorization.
What is the status of TPS for Cameroon?
On October 10, 2023, TPS for Cameroon was extended for the 18-month period from December 8, 2023, to June 7, 2025. On June 4, 2025, the extension and designation of Cameroon as a TPS location was vacated by DHS. There is a 60-day waiting period until the termination goes into effect on August 4, 2025. After August 4, 2025, nationals of Cameroon (and people having no nationality who last habitually resided in Cameroon) who hold TPS will no longer hold TPS. You can no longer apply for TPS for Cameroon or extend the status. The FRN provides further details.
How do I apply for TPS?
People interested in TPS must file an application with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services and pay the filing fee. They may also apply for an EAD and for travel authorization. All individuals applying for TPS undergo security and background checks as part of determining eligibility.
The application period for TPS for Cameroon is closed as of June 7, 2025. No more applications are being accepted.
Is TPS status given automatically?
No, TPS is not automatic. People must apply, pay a filing fee, and pass immigration screening. There are some facts that will make a person ineligible for TPS. For example, people with certain criminal convictions or who violated the human rights of others are not eligible for TPS. People who are inadmissible under certain sections of the law may have to file a waiver before they can be approved for TPS status. The application process can be complicated, and we recommend working with an immigration attorney. Please note, currently DHS is not accepting TPS applications for Cameroon.
How long will eligible individuals have protection under TPS?
TPS is a temporary status. TPS for Cameroon is terminated on August 4, 2025. After this date, Cameroonian nationals (and people having no nationality who last habitually resided in Cameroon) who hold TPS status will no longer have TPS.
Does TPS Status provide a path to permanent residency?
No, TPS does not provide a path to lawful permanent resident status. However, some TPS holders may be independently eligible to adjust status through a family-based, employment-based, or other legal avenue. Please consult with an immigration lawyer regarding this issue.