The US analyzes granting Ecuadoreans the Temporary Protection Status after the earthquake
The United States is evaluating granting to Ecuadorians living in US territory the Temporary Protection Status (TPS) as a consequence of the earthquake that struck the country last April 16, a spokesman for Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) reported today to Efe.
“In consultation with the appropriate agencies, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) is evaluating the impact of the earthquake and the recovery needs of Ecuador in order to determine whether a discretionary TPS designation may be justified,” said spokeswoman for USCIS Joanne Ferreira.
The Temporary Protection Status is a permit that US authorities grant in an extraordinary manner to the citizens of countries affected by conflicts or natural disasters and can be awarded directly by the US Government without the need for congressional approval.
TPS is a temporary measure that stops deportation of the beneficiaries and gives them a work permit.
While the government is studying the TPS granting, immigration authorities announced on April 26 a series of measures to help Ecuadorians living in the US.