The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has published the temporary protected status (TPS) designation for Lebanon, which was announced in October 2024.

Please note that TPS is separate from the removal protection provided by Deferred Enforced Departure (DED), which is granted under the President’s authority in foreign relations. Because DED can be revoked by the President, the incoming Trump administration could end the DED protection for Lebanon, which President Biden granted in July 2024. Lebanese nationals who have lived in the U.S. since July 26, 2024, are covered by DED until January 25, 2026, unless the incoming administration cancels Lebanon’s DED status after January 20, 2025. TPS, on the other hand, can only be terminated after 60 days from a notice issued by the DHS Secretary or when the current TPS period ends, whichever is later.

TPS for Lebanon will be valid until May 27, 2026, and will cover Lebanese nationals (or stateless individuals last living in Lebanon) who have continuously lived in the U.S. since October 16, 2024, and who have been physically present in the U.S. since November 27, 2024.

DHS estimates that about 11,000 Lebanese nationals are eligible for TPS, DED, or both programs.

Individuals applying for TPS can request work authorization through May 27, 2026. Lebanese nationals not eligible for TPS but protected by Biden’s DED memorandum may still apply for work authorization. If the incoming administration rescinds the DED policy, any work authorization granted under DED will also be canceled.