For people from Nicaragua, the possibility of re-designating their temporary protection status (also referred to as TPS) has sparked fear about the future. Knowing what this means and how to be protected is imperative.
Nicaraguan immigrants say TPS is a necessary shield
Politicians and activists are advocating the continuation of TPS for immigrants from Nicaragua. TPS is based on helping people who are fleeing their country after a natural disaster. The most recent statistics say that more than 4,200 Nicaraguans have benefited from the program from more than 20 years ago.
Some who have been living in the United States for many years are still functioning without legal status and cannot get a permanent job. Nicaraguans have recently fled their country because of the political challenges sparked by the current leadership. Many of those who escaped were political prisoners with many ending up in Florida.
Re-designating TPS would let these immigrants stay in the United States and work without concern about the prospect of legal ramifications sending them back to their home country. Across the United States, there are nearly a half-million Nicaraguans in this situation. More than 100,000 Nicaraguans are living in Miami-Dade County alone.
Immigration can be difficult and help may be needed
There is no current plan to re-designate Nicaragua for TPS. Still, there is always a chance that it will happen sending these immigrants into turmoil. As immigrants are anxiously awaiting the U.S. government’s decision on how to address their immigration status, the potential for arrest and removal remains in place.
In these instances, there are strategies that can be effective to try and stay in the country legally. Many immigrants confronted by the prospect of deportation might not realize they have rights. Knowing what can be done and having a plan can be crucial to reaching a positive outcome and staying in the United States.
