The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has announced that it will introduce new temporary immigration benefits for Lebanon’s nationals. This announcement follows the President’s determination that southern Lebanon’s significantly deteriorated humanitarian conditions endangered Lebanese civilians. This announcement includes the introduction of Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for eligible Lebanese nationals, special employment benefits for qualifying Lebanese students, and information on how eligible individuals may request work authorization.

Shortly after the announcement, the DHS published a Notice in the Federal Register that officially designated Lebanon for TPS. The United States Secretary of Homeland Security, Alejandro Mayorkas, announced that the re-designation of Lebanon for TPS would last from November 27, 2024, through May 27, 2026. This re-designation is due to the region suffering ongoing internal conflict.

In addition, the change also marks the period during which eligible individuals may apply for TPS. Qualifying individuals include Lebanese nationals and those without a nationality who last habitually resided in Lebanon. To file an initial application for TPS, individuals must prove they have lived in the US since October 16, 2024, and maintained a continuous physical presence since November 27, 2024.

Those qualifying for TPS will also become eligible to apply for an Employment Authorization Document (EAD), allowing them to complete the employment eligibility verification (Form I-9) process to work in the US. The DHS published the exact details on applying for TPS and EADs in the Federal Register Notice. This notice created procedures that allow those covered by the grant of Deferred Enforced Departure for Lebanese nationals announced on July 26, 2024, to apply for EADs. These EADs will be valid through January 25, 2026.

Finally, the DHS has announced relaxed employment authorization rules for F-1 students undergoing economic hardship associated with the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Lebanon. These students may request employment authorization and work more hours with a reduced course load while maintaining their current status. These rules will take effect through May 27, 2026.

For employers, these changes may allow many workers to gain or retain their employment authorization through the above periods and potentially work more hours. As always, ensuring the correct documentation is acquired, particularly for completing the Form I-9, is crucial. The best way to help ensure compliance with Employment Eligibility Verification requirements is to incorporate an electronic I-9 management system with E-Verify integration into the onboarding process. This system guides users through the process and has a suite of features to help employers stay compliant.

Automate your employment eligibility verification today with the ensured compliance of I-9 Compliance.

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