i-821instr

Instructions for
Application for Temporary Protected Status
Department of Homeland Security
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services

USCIS
Form I-821

OMB No. 1615-0043
Expires 07/31/2022

What Is the Purpose of Form I-821?
If you are an eligible national of certain countries that the Secretary of Homeland Security (Secretary) has designated for
Temporary Protected Status (TPS) or a person without nationality who last habitually resided in the designated country,
then you may apply for TPS by filing Form I-821, Application for Temporary Protected Status. This form is also used if
you have TPS and are filing for TPS re-registration.
Do NOT use Form I-821 to request Consideration Of Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA). Form I-821D
must be used to request DACA. Form I-821 is only used to apply for Temporary Protected Status (TPS).

When Should I Use Form I-821?
Use Form I-821 when registering initially or re-registering for TPS.

Do I Have to Request Employment Authorization with My Form I-821?
If you want to request an Employment Authorization Document (EAD), you must file Form I-765, Application for
Employment Authorization, with your Form I-821.
You may wait to file a Form I-765 until after USCIS decides your TPS application. However, please note that if you wait
to request an EAD until after USCIS grants TPS or approves re-registration, you will not receive your EAD (assuming
you are eligible) until several weeks after you file the Form I-765.

Who May File Form I-821?
You must be an eligible national of a foreign state (or a person having no nationality who last habitually resided in a
foreign state) that the Secretary has designated for TPS under section 244(b) of the Immigration and Nationality Act
(INA). You should check with the nearest U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) office for countries
currently designated for TPS and for information pertaining to re-registration periods, or visit the USCIS website at
www.uscis.gov/tps.

Who Is Eligible For TPS?
To be eligible for TPS, you must be admissible to the United States as an immigrant under the applicable grounds in INA
section 212(a), with certain exceptions. USCIS may grant discretionary waivers for some, but not all of the applicable
inadmissibility grounds (See the What Waivers are Available For TPS section of these Instructions.)

Form I-821 Instructions 07/03/19

Page 1 of 18

What Waivers are Available For TPS?
USCIS may grant discretionary waivers of certain inadmissibility grounds for humanitarian purposes, to assure
family unity, or because it is otherwise in the public interest. However, USCIS cannot waive some inadmissibility
grounds, by law, including certain criminal grounds in INA sections 212(a)(2)(A-C) and national security, terrorismrelated, and persecution grounds in INA sections 212(a)(3)(A-C, E). If you are inadmissible on grounds that can
be waived, you may be able to obtain a discretionary waiver. For further information on waivers, including how
to apply and the fee for seeking a waiver, see the TPS page on the USCIS website at www.uscis.gov/tps. You may
also wish to obtain legal advice if you believe you may be subject to any ground of inadmissibility or another TPS
ineligibility ground.
If you are re-registering for TPS and you were already granted a waiver of a ground of inadmissibility in conjunction with
your prior TPS application, you do not need to seek another waiver for the same action, incident, or circumstance. For
example, if on a prior TPS application, USCIS previously granted you a waiver of the health ground of inadmissibility
because you had tuberculosis that was treated, you do not need to apply for another waiver for that same health incident.
However, you will need to file for a waiver if you have contracted another communicable disease for which a waiver is
necessary.

Does My Spouse, Child, or Parent Have to File a Form I-821?
Each person seeking TPS must apply for him or herself on a separate Form I-821. There is no derivative TPS status,
meaning that your spouse, children or parents cannot obtain TPS as a result of your approval for TPS. They must each
qualify for TPS individually.
However, USCIS may accept late initial TPS applications from certain individuals who had a qualifying relationship to
a spouse or child during the initial registration period for the TPS-designated country and that relative is also currently
eligible for TPS. Even where such a relationship exists, the applicant must still meet all other TPS eligibility requirements
before USCIS may grant TPS. Please see the TPS page on the USCIS website at www.uscis.gov/tps or the latest Federal
Register Notice regarding the TPS designation for your country for further information on late initial filing.

General Instructions
USCIS provides forms free of charge through the USCIS website. In order to view, print, or fill out our forms, you should
use the latest version of Adobe Reader, which you can download for free at http://get.adobe.com/reader/. If you do not
have internet access, you may order USCIS forms by calling the USCIS Contact Center at 1-800-375-5283. The USCIS
Contact Center provides information in English and Spanish. For TTY (deaf or hard of hearing) call: 1-800-767-1833.
Signature. Each application must be properly signed and filed. For all signatures on this application, USCIS will not
accept a stamped or typewritten name in place of a signature. If you are under 14 years of age, your parent or legal
guardian may sign the application on your behalf. A legal guardian may also sign for a mentally incompetent person.
Filing Fee. Each application must be accompanied by the appropriate filing fee and biometric services fee (if applicable).
(See the What Is the Filing Fee section of these Instructions.)
Evidence. At the time of filing, you must submit all evidence and supporting documentation listed in the Specific
Instructions and/or What Evidence Must You Submit sections of these Instructions. You should also refer to the most
recently published country-specific Federal Register notice that announces the procedures for TPS registration or reregistration.

Form I-821 Instructions 07/03/19

Page 2 of 18

Biometric Services Appointment. USCIS may require that you appear for an interview or provide fingerprints,
photograph, and/or signature at any time to verify your identity, obtain additional information, and conduct background
and security checks, including a check of criminal history records maintained by the Federal Bureau of Investigation
(FBI), before making a decision on your application, petition, or request. After USCIS receives your application and
ensures it is complete, we will inform you in writing or by email notice if you e-file your application, if you need to attend
a biometric services appointment. If an appointment is necessary, the notice will provide you the location of your local or
designated USCIS Application Support Center (ASC) and the date and time of your appointment or, if you are currently
overseas, instruct you to contact a U.S. Embassy, U.S. Consulate, or USCIS office outside the United States to set up an
appointment.
If you are required to provide biometrics, at your appointment you must sign an oath reaffirming that:
1. You provided or authorized all information in the application;
2. You reviewed and understood all of the information contained in, and submitted with, your application; and
3. All of this information was complete, true, and correct at the time of filing.
If you fail to attend your biometric services appointment, USCIS may deny your application.
Copies. You should submit legible photocopies of documents requested, unless the Instructions specifically state that you
must submit an original document. USCIS may request an original document at the time of filing or at any time during
processing of an application, petition, or request. If USCIS requests an original document from you, it will be returned to
you after USCIS determines it no longer needs your original.
NOTE: If you submit original documents when not required or requested by USCIS, your original documents may be
immediately destroyed upon receipt.
Translations. If you submit a document with information in a foreign language, you must also submit a full and complete
English translation. The translator must certify that the English language translation is complete and accurate, and that he
or she is competent to translate from the foreign language into English. The certification should also include the date, the
translator’s signature and printed name, and may contain the translator’s contact information.
How to Fill Out Form I-821
1. Type or print legibly in black ink.
2. If you need extra space to complete any item within this application, use the space provided in Part 11. Additional
Information or attach a separate sheet of paper; type or print your name and Alien Registration Number (A-Number)
(if any) at the top of each sheet; indicate the Page Number, Part Number, and Item Number to which your answer
refers; and sign and date each sheet.
3. Answer all questions fully and accurately. If a question does not apply to you (for example, if you have never been
married and the question asks “Provide the name of your current spouse”), type or print “N/A,” unless otherwise
directed. If your answer to a question which requires a numeric response is zero or none (for example, “How many
children do you have?” or “How many times have you departed the United States?”), type or print “None,” unless
otherwise directed.
4. The following Parts and Item Numbers cannot be left blank and must have a response. Failure to provide a response
may delay processing of your case or result in denial.
A. Part 1. Type of Application;
B. Part 2. Information About You, Item Numbers 1.a., 1.b., 2.a. - 2.c., 3.a. - 4.f., 9., and 12. - 16.;
C. Part 3. Biographic Information;

Form I-821 Instructions 07/03/19

Page 3 of 18

D. Part 7. Eligibility Standards - All questions must be answered;
E. Part 8. Applicant’s Statement, Contact Information, Certification, and Signature;
F. Part 9. Interpreter’s Contact Information, Certification, and Signature (if you used an interpreter); and
G. Part 10. Contact Information, Declaration, and Signature of the Person Preparing this Application, if
Other than the Applicant (if you used a preparer and/or have a legal representative).

Specific Instructions
This form is divided into eleven parts.
Part 1. Type of Application
Item Numbers 1.a. - 1.b. Type of Application. Select Item Number 1.a. if this is your first time applying for TPS and
you currently do not have TPS. This means you are filing an “initial” TPS application. Please also select Item Number
1.a. if you do not currently have TPS, but you have previously applied. Read the Note on the form regarding additional
information you must provide, if available, for any prior TPS applications you submitted. Select Item Number 1.b. only
if you currently have TPS and are re-registering. If you select this item, you must also complete Item Number 2.
Item Number 2. TPS Granting Authority. Only complete this section if you selected Item Number 1.b. Select
USCIS if you received a letter from USCIS granting your previous application for TPS. Select Immigration Judge/
Board of Immigration Appeals if you received a written decision from the Immigration Judge or Board of Immigration
Appeals granting your previous application for TPS.
Item Numbers 3.a. - 3.b. Request For Employment Authorization Document (EAD). Select Item Number 3.a. if
you are requesting an Employment Authorization Document (EAD) and are filing the Form I-765 with your Form I-821.
Select Item Number 3.b. if you are not requesting employment authorization at this time.
NOTE: You can still apply for an EAD at a later date, after USCIS makes a decision on your application for TPS.
Item Number 4. TPS Country. Provide the name of the designated TPS country (or part thereof) under which you are
applying.
Part 2. Information About You
Item Numbers 1.a. - 1.c. Your Full Name. Provide your full legal name in the spaces provided.
Item Numbers 2.a. - 3.c. Other Names Used (if any). Provide all other names you have used, including but not limited
to, maiden names, married names, and nicknames in the space provided. If you need additional space to complete the
section, use Part 11. Additional Information.
Item Numbers 4.a. - 5. U.S. Mailing Address. Provide the address where you would like to receive written
correspondence regarding your application.
Item Numbers 6.a. - 6.e. U.S. Physical Address. If your current mailing address is not the same as your physical
address, provide your physical street address. You must include a street number and name or a rural route number. Do not
provide a post office box (P.O. Box) number here.
Item Number 7. Alien Registration Number (A-Number) (if any). Provide your A-Number. Your A-Number is the
number used to identify your immigration records. You can find this number on documents you received from USCIS,
U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), or U.S. Department of Justice Executive Office of Immigration
Review (EOIR) during immigration proceedings in court.

Form I-821 Instructions 07/03/19

Page 4 of 18

Item Number 8. USCIS Online Account Number (if any). If you have previously filed an application, petition, or
request using the USCIS online filing system (previously called USCIS Electronic Immigration System (USCIS ELIS)),
provide the USCIS Online Account Number you were issued by the system. You can find your USCIS Online Account
Number by logging in to your account and going to the profile page. If you previously filed certain applications, petitions,
or requests on a paper form via a USCIS Lockbox facility, you may have received a USCIS Online Account Access Notice
issuing you a USCIS Online Account Number. If you received such a notice, your USCIS Online Account Number can be
found at the top of the notice. If you were issued a USCIS Online Account Number, enter it in the space provided. The
USCIS Online Account Number is not the same as an A-Number.
Item Number 9. U.S. Social Security Number (if any). Provide your U.S. Social Security number. If you do not have a
U.S. Social Security number, type or print “N/A.”
Item Number 10. Date of Birth. Provide your date of birth in month/day/year (mm/dd/yyyy) format.
Item Numbers 11.a. - 11.b. Other Dates of Birth Used. Provide all other dates of birth used in mm/dd/yyyy format.
Item Number 12. Gender. Indicate your gender.
Item Number 13. City/Town/Village of Birth. Provide the city/town/village where you were born in the space provided.
Item Number 14. Country of Birth. Provide your country of birth in the space provided.
Item Numbers 15.a. - 15.d. Countries of Residence/You Entered (Before Entering the United States). List all of the
countries you entered while traveling to the United States, including any countries where you resided as well as those
where you transited through. Use Part 11. Additional Information to provide the dates when you were in those countries
and any immigration status you may have had while in those countries. If you have ever been offered an immigration
status in another country that you did not accept, please describe that status offer as well and why you did not accept it in
Part 11. Additional Information.
Item Numbers 16.a. - 16.d. Country or Countries of Citizenship or Nationality (if any) (List all countries that apply.)
Provide the name of EACH country of which you are a citizen or where you have nationality. This is not necessarily
the country where you were born. If you do not have citizenship in any country, type or print “stateless” and provide an
explanation in Part 11. Additional Information.
Item Number 17. Marital Status. Select the appropriate category to indicate your current marital status. If you are
uncertain of your marital status or have additional relevant information about your marital status, please use Part 11.
Additional Information.
Item Number 18. Date of Current Marriage (if currently married). Provide the date of your current marriage (if
cuurently married) in mm/dd/yyyy format.
Item Number 19. Date of Last Entry into the United States. Provide the date and place where you last entered the
United States in mm/dd/yyyy format.
Item Number 20. Immigration Status (or Lack of Status) When You Last Entered the United States. Provide your
immigration status, if any, at the time when you last entered the United States. For example, visitor, student, visa overstay.
If you entered without inspection or admission or parole, type or print “No Status” as your immigration status.
Item Numbers 21.a. - 22.b. Place of Last Entry into the United States. Provide the U.S. Port of Entry (if any), city or
town and state where you last entered into the United States.
Item Number 23. Form I-94 Arrival-Departure Record. If U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) or USCIS
issued you a Form I-94, Arrival-Departure Record, provide your Form I-94 number and date that your authorized period
of stay expires or expired (as shown on Form I-94). The Form I-94 number also is known as the Departure Number on
some versions of Form I-94.

Form I-821 Instructions 07/03/19

Page 5 of 18

NOTE: If you were admitted to the United States by CBP at an airport or seaport after April 30, 2013, you may have
been issued an electronic Form I-94 by CBP, instead of a paper Form I-94. You may visit the CBP website at
www.cbp.gov/i94 to obtain a paper version of an electronic Form I-94. CBP does not charge a fee for this service. Some
travelers admitted to the United States at a land border, airport, or seaport, after April 30, 2013, with a passport or travel
document, who were issued a paper Form I-94 by CBP, may also be able to obtain a replacement Form I-94 from the CBP
website without charge. If your Form I-94 cannot be obtained from the CBP website, it may be obtained by filing Form
I-102, Application for Replacement/Initial Nonimmigrant Arrival-Departure Record, with USCIS. USCIS does charge a
fee for this service.
Item Number 24. Date Your Authorized Period of Stay in the United States Expired or Will Expire. Provide the
date your authorized period of stay expired or will expire in mm/dd/yyyy format. You can locate the date on your Arrival
Departure Record or Crewman’s Landing Permit. If you were admitted for Duration of Status (D/S), please note “D/S” in
the space provided.
Item Numbers 25. - 28. Passport and Travel Document Numbers. If you used a passport or travel document to travel
to the United States, enter either the passport or travel document information in the appropriate spaces on the application,
even if the passport or travel document is currently expired. If you have other valid passports, please list all of them and
provide all of the requested information about each document. If you need additional space to complete this section, use
the space provided in Part 11. Additional Information.
Item Number 29. Country of Issuance for Passport or Travel Document. Provide the country of issuance for passport
or travel document.
Item Number 30. Expiration Date for Passport or Travel Document. Provide the expiration date for passport or travel
document.
Item Number 31. Current Immigration Status (or Lack of Status). Provide your current immigration status (or lack of
status) and indicate whether or not you are now in status. For example, visitor, student, visa overstay, and no status.
Item Numbers 32. - 36.c. Immigration Proceedings. If you have ever been in any type of immigration proceeding
before the Department of Justice (DOJ), including an Immigration Court or the Board of Immigration Appeals (BIA),
or administrative removal proceedings conducted by the former Immigration and Naturalization Service (INS) or the
Department of Homeland Security (DHS), provide details. Also respond if you have been involved in any federal court
proceeding involving immigration issues. Indicate which entities conducted your proceedings, as requested on the form.
Provide all applicable responses, even if your cases involved the same immigration matter, such as when your case may
have been on appeal to the BIA or in federal court. Also provide the locations where your proceedings occurred or are
currently being held and the dates of your proceedings.
NOTE: Even if your removal, exclusion, or deportation proceedings are administratively closed, you are still “in
proceedings” until EOIR terminates or dismisses your case.
Part 3. Biographic Information
Provide the biographic information requested in Part 3., Item Numbers 1. - 6. Providing this information as part of
your application may reduce the time you spend at your USCIS ASC appointment as described in the Biometric Services
Appointment section of these Instructions.
Item Numbers 1. - 2. Ethnicity and Race. Select the boxes that best describe your ethnicity and race.

Categories and Definitions for Ethnicity and Race
(1) Hispanic or Latino. A person of Cuban, Mexican, Puerto Rican, South or Central American, or other
Spanish culture or origin, regardless of race. (NOTE: This category is only included under Ethnicity in Part
3., Item Number 1.)
(2) White. A person having origins in any of the original peoples of Europe, the Middle East, or North Africa.

Form I-821 Instructions 07/03/19

Page 6 of 18

(3) Asian. A person having origins in any of the original peoples of the Far East, Southeast Asia, or the
Indian subcontinent including, for example, Cambodia, China, India, Japan, Korea, Malaysia, Pakistan, the
Philippine Islands, Thailand, and Vietnam.
(4) Black or African American. A person having origins in any of the black racial groups of Africa.
(5) American Indian or Alaska Native. A person having origins in any of the original peoples of North and
South America (including Central America), and who maintains tribal affiliation or community attachment.
(6) Native Hawaiian or Other Pacific Islander. A person having origins in any of the original peoples of
Hawaii, Guam, Samoa, or other Pacific Islands.
Item Number 3. Height. Select the values that best match your height in feet and inches. For example, if you are five
feet and nine inches, select “5” for feet and “09” for inches. Do not enter your height in meters or centimeters.
Item Number 4. Weight. Enter your weight in pounds. If you do not know your weight, or need to enter a weight under
30 pounds or over 699 pounds, enter “000.” Do not enter your weight in kilograms.
Item Number 5. Eye Color. Select the box that best describes the color of your eyes.
Item Number 6. Hair Color. Select the box that best describes the color of your hair.
Part 4. Information About Your Current Spouse (if any)
Complete this section about your current spouse only if you are filing a late initial application for TPS. Please see the TPS
page on the USCIS website at www.uscis.gov/tps for information on late initial filing for TPS.
Item Number 1. USCIS Online Account Number (if any). If you have previously filed an application, petition, or
request using the USCIS online filing system (previously called USCIS Electronic Immigration System (USCIS ELIS)),
provide the USCIS Online Account Number you were issued by the system. You can find your USCIS Online Account
Number by logging in to your account and going to the profile page. If you previously filed certain applications, petitions,
or requests on a paper form via a USCIS Lockbox facility, you may have received a USCIS Online Account Access Notice
issuing you a USCIS Online Account Number. If you received such a notice, your USCIS Online Account Number can be
found at the top of the notice. If you were issued a USCIS Online Account Number, enter it in the space provided. The
USCIS Online Account Number is not the same as an A-Number.
Item Number 2. Alien Registration Number (A-Number) (if any and available to you). Provide your spouse’s
A-Number, if available to you. The A-Number is the number used to identify your spouse’s immigration records. Your
spouse can find this number on documents he or she received from USCIS, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement
(ICE), or DOJ Executive Office of Immigration Review (EOIR) during immigration proceedings in court.
Item Numbers 3.a. - 3.c. Full Name. Provide your current spouse’s full name in the space provided.
Item Numbers 4.a. - 4.h. Mailing Address of Spouse. Provide your current spouse’s mailing address in the space
provided.
Item Numbers 5. - 8.d. Other Information About Your Current Spouse. Provide your current spouse’s date or birth,
date of present marriage, and place of present marriage.
Item Numbers 9. - 11. Your Current Spouse’s TPS. If your current spouse has ever had TPS, please indicate the dates
of his or her TPS and whether your current spouse’s TPS is still valid, if this information is available to you.
Part 5. Information About Your Former Spouses (if any) (Completed by Late Initial Filers Only)
NOTE: Only complete this section if you are filing a late initial application for TPS. Please see the TPS page on the
USCIS website at www.uscis.gov/tps for information on late initial filing for TPS. If you need additional space to
complete this section, use the space provided in Part 11. Additional Information.

Form I-821 Instructions 07/03/19

Page 7 of 18

Item Numbers 1.a. - 1.c. and 11.a - 11.c. Former Spouse’s Full Name. Provide your former spouse’s full legal name.
Item Numbers 2. and 12. Former Spouse’s Nationalities. Provide your former spouse’s nationality or nationalities, if
more than one.
Item Numbers 3. and 13. A-Number (if any). Provide your former spouse’s A-Number, if available to you. The
A-Number is the number used to identify your former spouse’s immigration records.
Item Numbers 4. and 14. Date of Birth. Provide the date of your former spouse’s birth in a mm/dd/yyyy format.
Item Numbers 5. and 15. Date of Death (if applicable). Provide the date of your former spouse’s death in a mm/dd/
yyyy format.
Item Numbers 6.a. - 7. and 16.a. - 17. Dates of Marriage and How Marriage Ended.
Item Numbers 8. - 10. and 18. - 20. Your Former Spouse’s TPS. If your former spouse ever had TPS, indicate the
dates of his or her TPS and whether your former spouse’s TPS is still valid, if known. Also indicate if your former spouse
is re-registering for TPS, if that information is available to you.
Part 6. Information About Your Children (if any)
Item Numbers 1.a. - 1.c. and 8.a. - 8.c. Child’s Full Name. Provide the child’s full legal name.
Item Numbers 2. and 9. USCIS Online Account Number (if any). If you have previously filed an application, petition,
or request using the USCIS online filing system (previously called USCIS Electronic Immigration System (USCIS ELIS)),
provide the USCIS Online Account Number you were issued by the system. You can find your USCIS Online Account
Number by logging in to your account and going to the profile page. If you previously filed certain applications, petitions,
or requests on a paper form via a USCIS Lockbox facility, you may have received a USCIS Online Account Access Notice
issuing you a USCIS Online Account Number. If you received such a notice, your USCIS Online Account Number can be
found at the top of the notice. If you were issued a USCIS Online Account Number, enter it in the space provided. The
USCIS Online Account Number is not the same as an A-Number.
Item Numbers 3. and 10. A-Number (if any and available to you). Provide your child’s A-Number, if available to you.
The A-Number is the number used to identify your child’s immigration records. You can find your child’s A-number on
documents from USCIS, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), or DOJ Executive Office of Immigration
Review (EOIR) during immigration proceedings in court.
Item Numbers 4. and 11. Date of Birth. Provide the date of your child’s birth in a mm/dd/yyyy format.
Item Numbers 5.a. - 5.h. and 12.a. - 12.h. Your Child’s U.S. Mailing Address. Provide your child’s U.S. mailing
address.
Item Numbers 6.a. - 7. and 13.a. - 14. Your Child’s TPS. If your child ever had TPS, please indicate the dates of his or
her TPS, if known. Also indicate if your child is re-registering for TPS, if that information is available to you.
Part 7. Eligibility Standards
Item Numbers 1.a. - 41. Eligibility Standards. Complete Item Numbers 1.a. - 41. If you select “Yes” to any of Item
Numbers 3. - 41., provide an explanation in Part 11. Additional Information.
Part 8. Applicant’s Statement, Contact Information, Certification, and Signature
Item Numbers 1.a. - 6.b. Select the appropriate box to indicate whether you read this application yourself or whether
you had an interpreter assist you. If someone assisted you in completing the application, select the box indicating that you
used a preparer. Further, you must sign and date your application and provide your daytime telephone number, mobile
telephone number (if any), and email address (if any). Every application MUST contain the signature of the applicant (or
parent or legal guardian, if applicable). A stamped or typewritten name in place of a signature is not acceptable.

Form I-821 Instructions 07/03/19

Page 8 of 18

Part 9. Interpreter’s Contact Information, Certification, and Signature
Item Numbers 1.a. - 7.b. If you used anyone as an interpreter to read the Instructions and questions on this application to
you in a language in which you are fluent, the interpreter must fill out this section, provide his or her name, the name and
address of his or her business or organization (if any), his or her daytime telephone number, his or her mobile telephone
number (if any), and his or her email address (if any). The interpreter must sign and date the application.
Part 10. Contact Information, Declaration, and Signature of the Person Preparing this Application, if Other Than
the Applicant
Item Numbers 1.a. - 8.b. This section must contain the signature of the person who completed your application, if other
than you, the applicant. If the same individual acted as your interpreter and your preparer, that person should complete
both Part 8. and Part 9. If the person who completed this application is associated with a business or organization, that
person should complete the business or organization name and address information. Anyone who helped you complete
this application MUST sign and date the application. A stamped or typewritten name in place of a signature is not
acceptable. If the individual person who helped you prepare your application is an attorney or accredited representative
whose representation extends beyond preparation of this application, he or she may be obliged to also submit a completed
Form G-28, Notice of Entry of Appearance as Attorney or Accredited Representative, or G-28I, Notice of Entry of
Appearance as Attorney In Matters Outside the Geographical Confines of the United States along with your application.
Part 11. Additional Information
Item Numbers 1.a. - 7.d. If you need extra space to provide any additional information within this application, use the
space provided in Part 11. Additional Information. If you need more space than what is provided in Part 11., you may
make copies of Part 11. to complete and file with your application, or attach a separate sheet of paper. Type or print your
name and A-Number (if any) at the top of each sheet; indicate the Page Number, Part Number, and Item Number to
which your answer refers; and sign and date each sheet.
We recommend that you print or save a copy of your completed application to review in the future and
for your records. We recommend that you review your copy of your completed application before you
come to your biometric services appointment at a USCIS ASC. At your appointment, USCIS will permit
you to complete the application process only if you are able to confirm, under penalty of perjury, that all of
the information in your application is complete, true, and correct. If you are not able to make that attestation
in good faith at that time, USCIS will require you to return for another appointment.

General Requirements
1. What documents should you submit?
NOTE: You do not need to provide original documents with this application unless USCIS requests that you provide
the originals of any copies you submit.
You must provide USCIS copies of documents to prove you are a national of a country designated for TPS (or have no
nationality and last habitually resided in a country designated for TPS), your date of entry into the United States, and
your U.S. residence. In addition:
Documentation Exception: If you are filing this application for re-registration (Part 1., Item Number 1.b., of
Form I-821), you do not have to submit any copies of documentation. However, USCIS may ask you for additional
information and/or documentation in certain circumstances.

Form I-821 Instructions 07/03/19

Page 9 of 18

NOTE: If you are submitting a first-time re-registration with USCIS following an Immigration Judge or Board of
Immigration Appeals decision granting your TPS application, please include a copy of that decision order with your
Form I-821. This will aid USCIS in verifying your grant of TPS and processing your application, as USCIS may not
have received records of your grant of TPS by either the immigration judge or the Board of Immigration Appeals.
2. What documents do you need to provide to prove identity and nationality?
Examples of documents that you can submit include copies of any of the following:
A. Passport;
B. Birth certificate accompanied by photo identification; or
C. Any national identity document from your country of origin bearing your photo and/or fingerprint.
3. What documents do you need to provide to prove date of entry into the United States to meet the continuous
residence requirement for this program?
Examples of documents that you can submit include copies of any of the following:
A. Passport;
B. Form I-94, Arrival-Departure Record; or
C. Documents specified in Item Number 4., below.
4. What documents do you need to provide to prove residence in the United States?
Submit copies of any of the following relevant documents.
A. Employment records (for example, pay stubs; Form W-2, Wage and Tax Statement; certification of the filing of
Federal income tax returns; state verification of the filing of state income tax returns; letters from employers; or, if
you are self-employed, letters from banks and other firms with which you have done business.)
NOTE: In all of these documents, your name and the name of the employer or other interested organization must
appear on the form or letter, as well as relevant dates. Letters from employers must be in affidavit form and the
employer must also sign and attest to the affidavit under penalty of perjury.
Such letters must include:
(1) Your address at the time of employment;
(2) Exact periods of employment;
(3) Periods of layoff; and
(4) Duties with the company.
If the employment records are unavailable, submit an affidavit explaining why you cannot obtain these records.
Your employer must sign and attest to the affidavit under penalty of perjury.
B. Rent receipts, utility bills (for example, gas, electric and phone), and receipts or letters from companies showing
the dates during which you received service.
C. School records (for example, letters, and report cards) from the schools that you or your children have attended in
the United States, showing the names of the schools and periods of school attendance.
D. Hospital or medical records concerning treatment or hospitalization of you or your children, showing the name of
the medical facility or physician, and the dates of the treatment or hospitalization.

Form I-821 Instructions 07/03/19

Page 10 of 18

E. Attestations by churches, unions, or other organizations to your residence, identifying you by name. The
attestation must be signed by an official (whose title is shown); show inclusive dates of membership; state the
address where you resided during membership periods; include the seal of the organization impressed on the letter
or the letterhead of the organization, if the organization has letterhead stationery; establish how the author knows
you; and establish the origin of the information being attested to.
F. Additional documents may include copies of money order receipts for money sent in or out of the country;
passport entries; birth certificates of children born in the United States; dated bank transactions; correspondence
between you and another person or organization; U.S. Social Security card; Selective Service card; automobile
license receipts, title, vehicle registration; deeds, mortgages, contracts to which you have been a party; tax
receipts; insurance policies; receipts; and letters.
G. Any other relevant documents.
5. What documents should I submit if I was arrested, charged, and/or convicted for a criminal offense?
In answering any question on this form about your criminal history:
You have been “convicted” for immigration purposes if:
(1) A court has entered against you a judgment of guilt; or
(2) The court has not entered a formal judgment, but;
(3) You were found guilty after a trial, entered a guilty or “no contest” plea, or admitted in court to facts that
would warrant a finding of guilt; and
(4) The court has imposed any restrictions on your liberty, including any probation, punishment or other penalty.
“Felony” means a crime committed in the United States, punishable by imprisonment for a term of more than one
year, regardless of the term such alien actually served, if any, except: When the offense is defined by the State as a
misdemeanor and the sentence actually imposed is one year or less regardless of the term such alien actually served.
Under this exception for purposes of TPS, the crime shall be treated as a misdemeanor. See 8 C.F.R. 244.1.
Misdemeanor means a crime committed in the United States, either:
(1) Punishable by imprisonment for a term of one year or less, regardless of the term such alien actually
served, if any; or
(2) A crime treated as a misdemeanor under the term “felony” of this section.
For purposes of TPS, any crime punishable by imprisonment for a maximum term of five days or less shall not be
considered a felony or misdemeanor. See 8 C.F.R. 244.1.
Please remember, however, that even if you were not convicted, you must provide records of any arrest or charge for a
criminal offense.
A. Court Disposition Records
If you were ever arrested, charged, and/or convicted for a criminal offense, you will need to provide court
disposition records.
Provide a certified copy of all arrest reports, court dispositions, sentencing documents, and any other relevant
documents. You may also include any mitigating evidence concerning the circumstances of your arrests or
convictions that you would like USCIS to consider if you have been arrested or convicted of a crime. If you were
placed on probation, you must provide evidence to show that you completed your probationary period.
You do not need to submit documentation for traffic fines and incidents (unless the traffic fines or incidents were
alcohol- or drug-related) that did not involve an actual arrest if the penalty was only a fine of less than $500
or points on your driver’s license. However, if you were arrested for any traffic offense, provide disposition
documentation, so USCIS can properly assess whether your conviction may relate to your TPS eligibility.

Form I-821 Instructions 07/03/19

Page 11 of 18

NOTE: Provide the conviction and disposition documentation even if your records were sealed, expunged,
or otherwise cleared. You must provide the documentation even if anyone, including a judge, law enforcement
officer, or attorney, told you that you no longer have a record or that you do not have to disclose the information.
Please see Item 6. about what you should submit if you are not able to obtain a true copy of the official record
concerning any arrest, charge, or conviction, including any records of juvenile criminal history or records that are
otherwise sealed.
NOTE: An adjudication of juvenile delinquency is not a “conviction” under U.S. immigration law. However,
if a minor is charged with a crime in a criminal court proceeding rather than being placed in a juvenile court
proceeding, the charges could be relevant. You must disclose all arrests and charges. If any arrest or charge
was disposed of as a matter of juvenile delinquency, include the court or other public record that establishes this
disposition.
B. Particularly Serious Crimes and Serious Nonpolitical Crimes
If you were ever convicted of or ever committed a “particularly serious crime” that constitutes a “danger to the
community of the United States,” or there are serious reasons for believing that you have committed “serious
nonpolitical crimes” outside of the United States before your arrival in this country, you cannot be granted
TPS. USCIS will make the determination as to whether your crimes fall into either of these categories. You
must, however, provide information and, if available, any supporting documentation on all crimes which you
have committed or were convicted of in the United States or outside of this country so that USCIS can make an
appropriate decision. If you believe that any of your arrests or convictions were politically motivated, describe
why in your supplemental statements.
6. What if official documents are not available?
USCIS always prefers receiving true copies of official records.
However, USCIS also understands that an applicant may not be able to obtain copies of some official records.
You do not need to submit an official record if you establish that the record is not available to you or your designated
representative. (In some cases, the law will allow you to obtain your own records, but does not necessarily allow
someone other than you or your designated representative to obtain the records. If you or your representative can
obtain the records, you must do so.)
Ordinarily, a certificate from the custodian of the records explaining that the records cannot be disclosed to you is
enough.
But if you claim that a record is not available because of a “confidentiality” law or other reason, please submit:
(1) A copy of your petition or motion to the court or other custodian of the record seeking permission to obtain a
copy to submit with your application; and
(2) A copy of the court’s or custodian’s order denying permission, if possible.
If you show that you cannot obtain a copy of the official record, you can submit any secondary evidence that might be
available, such as copies that you or your attorney may have retained.
If you cannot obtain primary or secondary evidence, you must provide at least one written statement. Each written
statement must:
(1) Be from a named individual who has personal knowledge to the proceeding;
(2) Explain the source of the individual’s personal knowledge;
(3) Describe the nature of the proceeding, the underlying charges, and the disposition; and
(4) Be signed by the individual under oath, affirmation, or penalty of perjury.
If more than one individual provides a written statement, it must be a separate typed or written statement from each,
that is, two individuals cannot sign the same statement.
Form I-821 Instructions 07/03/19

Page 12 of 18

If documents, such as identity and nationality documents, are not available to you, you may provide an affidavit
showing proof of unsuccessful efforts to obtain such documents, why the consular process is unavailable to you (for
identity documents) and affirming that you are a national of the designated state. USCIS may require a statement
from the appropriate issuing authority certifying that the document is not available. Affidavits may also be used to
help prove your date of entry into the United States and residence in the United States.
7. Will TPS applicants need to provide fingerprints, photographs, and a signature?
A. Yes. Except as noted below, all applicants for initial registration, re-registration, or renewal of TPS must provide
fingerprints, photographs, and a digital signature, which are referred to as “biometrics.” For re-registrations,
USCIS may be able to re-use your previously collected biometrics for identity verifications, background checks
and other authorized purposes. Applicants for both initial TPS and for re-registration who are 14 years of age
and older must submit the $85 biometric services fee or a fee waiver request. See Item Number 9. below for
information about fee waiver requests.
B. TPS applicants under 14 years of age who are not filing for an Employment Authorization Document (EAD) are
exempt from biometrics collection.
C. USCIS may, in its discretion, waive the collection of certain biometrics.
D. When a biometric services appointment is necessary, USCIS will send a notice to TPS applicants and reregistrants scheduling them to appear at an ASC for biometrics collection. Failure to comply with this notice may
result in the denial of the TPS application.
8. Can Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization, be filed at the same time as Form I-821?
Yes. When filing an initial TPS application with USCIS or re-registering for TPS, you can also request an
Employment Authorization Document (EAD) by submitting a completed Form I-765, with the appropriate Form
I-765 filing fee, if any, or fee waiver request, together with your Form I-821. If you are not requesting employment
authorization, you do not need to file Form I-765. If you want to wait to file for an EAD until after USCIS decides
your TPS application, you may file the Form I-765 later if you are approved for TPS. However, filing Form I-821
with Form I-765 helps you to receive your EAD more promptly if you are eligible for one.
As noted in the What Is the Filing Fee section of these Instructions, if you are under 14 years of age or over 65 years
of age, you may request an EAD without fee when filing an initial TPS application. All applicants, regardless of age,
must pay the Form I-765 filing fee if requesting an EAD when submitting a TPS re-registration application.
NOTE: An EAD is not a travel document. If your application for TPS is granted and you must travel outside
the United States and return, you must request an Advance Parole Document from USCIS by filing Form I-131,
Application for Travel Document. USCIS will issue a Form I-512, Advance Parole Document, to you if your request
is granted. For more information on filing Form I-131, visit the USCIS website at www.uscis.gov/I-131 or call the
USCIS National Customer Service Center at 1-800-375-5283. For TTY (deaf or hard of hearing) call:
1-800-767-1833.
9. May the filing fee and biometric services fee for Forms I-821 and I-765 be waived?
Yes. If you are unable to pay the filing fee and biometric services fee, 8 CFR Section 103.7(c) states that you may
request a waiver of the fees. To request a fee waiver, a person requesting an immigration benefit must either submit a
written request that the fee be waived or submit a Form I-912, Request for Fee Waiver. Either form of request must be
accompanied by documentation of your inability to pay the required fee.
In your request, you should indicate why you believe you are entitled to or deserving of the benefit requested, the
reason for your inability to pay the fees, and evidence to support the reasons you give. If your fee waiver request is
denied, there is no appeal of the denial.

Form I-821 Instructions 07/03/19

Page 13 of 18

What Evidence Must You Submit?
You must submit all evidence requested in these Instructions with your application. If you fail to submit required
evidence, USCIS may reject or deny your application for failure to submit requested evidence or supporting documents in
accordance with 8 CFR 103.2(b)(1) and these Instructions. See the General Requirements section of these Instructions
for additional evidence that must be submitted.

What Is the Filing Fee?
Initial TPS Applications
1. An initial (first-time) applicant must submit a $50 application fee for Form I-821. Additionally:
A. If you are 14 years of age or older, you must pay an $85 biometric services fee or a fee waiver request; and
B. If you are seeking employment authorization, you must submit Form I-765.
2. If you are between 14 and 65 years of age and seeking employment authorization, you must submit a $410 filing fee
and the Form I-765, in addition to the $50 application fee and $85 biometric services fee – a total of $545 or a fee
waiver request.
3. If you are under 14 years of age and seeking an EAD, you are not required to pay a fee for the EAD when filing for
initial TPS registration. Your only fee is the $50 application fee, or a fee waiver request.
4. If you are over 65 years of age and seeking an EAD, you are not required to pay a fee for the EAD when filing for
initial TPS registration. Your only fees are the $50 application fee and $85 biometric services fee – a total of $135
or a fee waiver request.
TPS Re-Registration
1. If you have TPS and you are filing for re-registration, you must submit the completed Form I-821, but you are not
required to pay the $50 application fee for Form I-821. However:
A. If you are 14 years of age or older, you must still pay the $85 biometric services fee; and
B. If you are seeking employment authorization, you must still submit Form I-765.
2. Regardless of your age, if you are filing Form I-765 to request an EAD with your re-registration, you must pay the
$410 filing fee for Form I-765.
NOTE: When filing an initial or re-registration TPS application, if you are not seeking employment authorization,
you do not need to file Form I-765 and you do not need to pay the $410 fee.
3. The Form I-821 filing fee and biometric services fee are not refundable, regardless of any action USCIS takes on this
application. DO NOT MAIL CASH. You must submit all fees in the exact amounts.
Use the following guidelines when you prepare your checks or money orders for the Form I-821 filing fee and
biometric services fee:
1. The check or money order must be drawn on a bank or other financial institution located in the United States and must
be payable in U.S. currency; and
2. Make the checks or money orders payable to U.S. Department of Homeland Security.
NOTE: Spell out U.S. Department of Homeland Security; do not use the initials “USDHS” or “DHS.”

Form I-821 Instructions 07/03/19

Page 14 of 18

Notice to Those Making Payment by Check. If you send us a check, USCIS will convert it into an electronic funds
transfer (EFT). This means we will copy your check and use the account information on it to electronically debit your
account for the amount of the check. The debit from your account will usually take 24 hours and your bank will show it
on your regular account statement.
You will not receive your original check back. We will destroy your original check, but will keep a copy of it. If USCIS
cannot process the EFT for technical reasons, you authorize us to process the copy in place of your original check. If
USCIS cannot complete the EFT because of insufficient funds, we may try to make the transfer two additional times.
NOTE: The fees that apply to your registration or re-registration application packet may all be combined into a single
check or money order. For example, if you also choose to submit Form I-131, Application for Travel Document, and
include that application with your TPS application, the Form I-131 fee may be included with the check or money order for
the TPS application, as well. Please note that if you use a single check or money order, and the fee amount is incorrect,
then your entire application packet will be rejected.
How to Check If the Fees Are Correct
Form I-821’s filing fee and biometric services fee are current as of the edition date in the lower left corner of this page.
However, because USCIS fees change periodically, you can verify if the fees are correct by following one of the steps
below:
1. Visit the USCIS website at www.uscis.gov, select “FORMS” and check the appropriate fee; or
2. Call the USCIS National Customer Service Center at 1-800-375-5283 and ask for the fee information. For TTY (deaf
or hard of hearing) call: 1-800-767-1833.
NOTE: If you are age 14 or older and, therefore, must pay the biometric services fee with your Form I-821, you can use
the same procedure to obtain the correct biometric services fee.
Fee Waiver
You may be eligible for a fee waiver under 8 CFR 103.7(c). If you believe you are eligible for a fee waiver, complete
Form I-912, Request for Fee Waiver (or a written request), and submit it and any required evidence of your inability to
pay the filing fees with this application. You can review the fee waiver guidance at www.uscis.gov/feewaiver.

Where to File?
Please see our website at www.uscis.gov/I-821 or call our National Customer Service Center at 1-800-375-5283 for the
most current information about where to file this application. For TTY (deaf or hard of hearing) call: 1-800-767-1833.

Address Change
An applicant who is not a U.S. citizen must notify USCIS of his or her new address within 10 days of moving from his
or her previous residence. For information on filing a change of address go to the USCIS website at www.uscis.gov/
addresschange or contact the USCIS National Customer Service Center at 1-800-375-5283. For TTY (deaf or hard of
hearing) call: 1-800-767-1833.
NOTE: Do not submit a change of address request to the USCIS Lockbox facilities because the Lockbox does not
process change of address requests. If you have an online account, you may also change your address in the USCIS
online filing system by logging into your user account and updating your Account Profile.

Form I-821 Instructions 07/03/19

Page 15 of 18

Processing Information
Initial Processing. Once USCIS accepts your application, we will check it for completeness, including submission of the
required initial evidence. If you do not completely fill out this application, you will not establish a basis for eligibility, and
USCIS may reject or deny your application.
Requests for More Information. We may request that you provide more information or evidence to support your
application. We may also request that you provide the originals of any copies you submit. If USCIS requests an original
document from you, it will be returned to you after USCIS determines it no longer needs your original.
Requests for Interview. We may request that you appear at a USCIS office for an interview based on your application.
At the time of any interview or other appearance at a USCIS office, we may require that you provide your fingerprints,
photograph, and/or signature to verify your identity and/or update background and security checks.
Decision. The decision on Form I-821 involves a determination of whether you have established eligibility for the
immigration benefit you are seeking. USCIS will notify you of the decision in writing.

USCIS Forms and Information
To ensure you are using the latest version of this application, visit the USCIS website at www.uscis.gov where you can
obtain the latest USCIS forms and immigration-related information. If you do not have internet access, you may order
USCIS forms by calling the USCIS Contact Center at 1-800-375-5283. The USCIS Contact Center provides information
in English and Spanish. For TTY (deaf or hard of hearing) call: 1-800-767-1833.
Instead of waiting in line for assistance at your local USCIS office, you can schedule an appointment online at
www.uscis.gov. Select “Schedule an Appointment” and follow the screen prompts to set up your appointment. Once you
finish scheduling an appointment, the system will generate an appointment notice for you.

Penalties
If you knowingly and willfully falsify or conceal a material fact or submit a false document with Form I-821, we will deny
your Form I-821 and may deny any other immigration benefit. In addition, you will face severe penalties provided by law
and may be subject to criminal prosecution.

DHS Privacy Notice
AUTHORITIES: The information requested on this application, and the associated evidence, is collected under INA
sections 101 and 244.
PURPOSE: The primary purpose for obtaining the requested information on this application is to determine whether you
have established eligibility for TPS, if you have not yet been granted TPS. DHS will use the information you provide to
grant or deny the benefit you are seeking.
DISCLOSURE: The information you provide is voluntary. However, failure to provide the requested information,
including your Social Security number (if applicable), and any requested evidence, may delay a final decision or result in
denial of your application.

Form I-821 Instructions 07/03/19

Page 16 of 18

ROUTINE USES: DHS may, where allowable under relevant confidentiality provisions, share the information you
provide on this application and any additional requested evidence with other Federal, state, local, and foreign government
agencies and authorized organizations. DHS follows approved routine uses described in the associated published system
of records notices [DHS/USCIS-001 - Alien File, Index, and National File Tracking System, DHS/USCIS-007 - Benefits
Information System, and DHS/USCIS-018 Immigration Biometric and Background Check System] and the published
privacy impact assessment [DHS/USCIS/PIA-056 USCIS Electronic Immigration System] which you can find at
www.dhs.gov/privacy. DHS may also share the information, as appropriate, for law enforcement purposes or in the
interest of national security.

Paperwork Reduction Act
An agency may not conduct or sponsor an information collection, and a person is not required to respond to a collection
of information, unless it displays a currently valid Office of Management and Budget (OMB) control number. The public
reporting burden for this collection of information is estimated at 2 hours and 25 minutes per response, including the time
for reviewing instructions, gathering the required documentation and information, completing the application, attaching
necessary documentation, and submitting the application. The collection of biometrics, where required, is estimated to
require 1 hour and 10 minutes. Send comments regarding this burden estimate or any other aspect of this collection of
information, including suggestions for reducing this burden to: U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services, Office of
Policy and Strategy, Regulatory Coordination Division, 5900 Capital Gateway Drive, Mail Stop #2140, Camp Springs,
MD 20588-0009; OMB No. 1615-0043. Do not mail your completed Form I-821 to this address.

Form I-821 Instructions 07/03/19

Page 17 of 18

Checklist
Please ensure that you complete the following actions before you file Form I-821 with USCIS.
Did you answer each question?
Did you sign your Form I-821?
Did you include the required applications, filing fees, and biometric services fee (or Form I-912, Request for Fee
Waiver, or a written request for a waiver of the filing fees)?
Did you include full, certified English language translations for any supporting document containing information in
another language, with your application?
Did you include the supporting evidence to prove identity, nationality, date of entry, and residence, with your
application?
Did you include other required supporting documents (such as photos) for your application?
If you were ever arrested or convicted for any criminal offense, did you include certified copies of all arrest reports,
court dispositions, sentencing documents, and any other relevant documents?
If you are requesting an Employment Authorization Document, did you include Form I-765? If you are requesting
employment authorization, did you submit the Form I-765 filing fee (if applicable) or Form I-912 or a written request
for a waiver of the filing fee? (See General Requirements, Item Numbers 8. and 9. of these Instructions.)
If you are requesting an Advance Parole Document, did you include Form I-131? If you are requesting an Advance
Parole Document, did you submit the Form I-131 filing fee (if applicable) or or Form I-912 or a written request for a
waiver of the filing fee? (See What Is the Filing Fee section of these Instructions).
If you used an interpreter and/or a preparer to complete this application, did he or she complete Part 9. and/or Part
10. on your Form I-821?

Form I-821 Instructions 07/03/19

Page 18 of 18